Hometown: Geneva, IL

Current Location: Berkeley, CA

Can you tell us a bit about your background and what inspired you to pursue your current career path?

I began volunteering for the Illinois Innocence Project (IIP) as a sophomore at UIS. Very quickly, I began seeing the far-reaching harms of the criminal legal system, especially when we incarcerate the wrong person. I worked for IIP for a total of 5 years, advancing from a volunteer to a paid student worker, and ultimately worked post-grad for two years as a paralegal. Throughout my time at IIP, I spent countless hours reading documents, visiting with incarcerated and freed clients, speaking with witnesses, and attending court hearings. My time with the Illinois Innocence Project affirmed my lifelong desire to pursue law school.

Who or what has been your biggest influence or mentor in your journey?

I have been so privileged to have many mentors on my journey so far. During my time at UIS, Dr. Amanda Hughett stands out unequivocally as the person who showed me how to dream bigger. Dr. Hughett lent me her personal copies of books on American labor law while supervising my independent study project. She wrote edits in the margins of my drafts that changed the way I think and write to this day. Dr. Hughett made me feel like law school was possible. I also want to mention Tyler Pence of the UIS cross country and track programs. Pence taught me how to manage the pressure, to enjoy the journey, and to be confident in my preparation.

What are your goals and aspirations for the future?

At the heart of all my passions, I have always been deeply curious about the intersections of gender and law. I have recently gained exposure to Title IX litigation and domestic violence issues that may guide my career path. Still, it is difficult to imagine a world where I do not someday return as an attorney for an organization that litigates on behalf of wrongfully convicted people. In addition to wrongful conviction work, I am determined to pursue litigation for menstrual care equity in prisons to bridge the gap in advocacy for the bodily autonomy rights of incarcerated humans.

What advice would you give to others who are looking to advance and make a difference in their field?

Seek out a mentor that sees you for who you are and who you can be. Volunteer for something you care about. Keep your life balanced and well-rounded as best as you can. Rejection is redirection for something better yet to come.

What do you enjoy doing in your free time that helps you stay inspired and motivated?

As a lifelong Illinoisan, I'm enjoying the sunny lifestyle of my recent move to California! I love to take walks and hikes around the parks of the Bay Area with my husband. My two cats, Belgie and Nellie, keep life sweet. And I always find time to read a good book, even in law school.