Current Location: Joliet, IL
Hometown: Plainfield, IL
Current Position: Partner at BCM Law, P.C.
What was your overall UIS experience like?
I had a great time attending UIS. I always knew I wanted to major in political science and go to law school, so attending college in the Illinois state capital was the perfect fit. I immediately got involved with Model Illinois Government, and later on the inaugural UIS Mock Trial team. I also interned the Illinois Innocence Project which further ignited my passion for the law as a force for good. These activities provided me valuable experience in legal analysis, strategy, and public speaking. I also developed many friendships that still endure to this day.
Do you have any fond memories of your time at UIS you'd like to share?
I loved being a member of the mock trial team and traveling across states to compete with my teammates/friends. We had a great time pouring over evidence and developing strategy to present our case. I also had a great time competing in the Model Illinois Government moot court competition in 2014. My partner and I took first place in the competition year after months of preparation and practice.
Why did you choose UIS?
I wanted an affordable, state school that still offered small class sizes and opportunities for “real world” experience through internships and extracurriculars. UIS checked all those boxes and provided me opportunities to learn through experience, forge relationships with my professors, and become a confident leader.
What has your career path been like? How did you end up where you are?
After I graduated UIS, I enrolled in the University of Illinois College of Law at Urbana Champaign. Once I graduated and passed the bar exam in 2018, I started representing injured employees in workers’ compensation claims in Rockford, Illinois. I then continued to practice workers’ compensation law in Chicago in 2020. I’ve been representing employees at the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission from that time to the present.
How did your UIS education prepare you for your career?
My education taught me the importance of critical thinking and building relationships. UIS gave me the opportunity to widen my horizons through involved professors and a wide variety of speakers and learn how to advocate for a position. These skills have been critical for my current practice and representing my clients.
Do you have any cool hobbies/side projects you'd like to tell us about?
I love collecting vinyl records and traveling with my husband and energetic toddler.
What are some life lessons you'd like to share with current students?
Take advantage of all the extracurriculars and opportunities at UIS. You will learn a lot and make friends for life.