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Mi Testimonio: Alma

Alma earned a B.A. in Communications and minors in Spanish and Sports Management from the University of California, Santa Barbara. She earned her Juris Doctor from Loyola Law School.

Describe your personal, educational, and professional experiences and how they informed your decision to pursue a graduate degree. 

Although I knew I wanted to go to law school long before I finally decided to go, my doubts in myself got the best of me. After graduating from undergrad, I had several jobs in countless different fields, like marketing, public relations, event planning and management. But, I soon realized that none of those jobs were challenging me or allowing me to use my full potential. That’s when I finally decided that I had to get over my fears and just pursue my dreams. 

What challenges did you encounter along your educational trajectory? How did you overcome those challenges? 

Neither of my parents graduated from college, thus they were unable to help me navigate throughout the application process. So, I had to try and figure it out on my own. I did this by staying on top of deadlines, asking my counselors for help, and having family and friends who went to college revise my personal statements. 

What advice do you have for individuals who are interested in pursuing a graduate degree? 

Just go for it! It won’t be easy, but it will be worth it. Don’t say “no” to yourself for others because they might say “yes” to you. For years I kept thinking, “I’m not going to apply for this job because I probably won’t get it” or “I’m not going to apply for law school because I won’t get in.” But, the moment I started saying “yes” was the moment countless doors opened for me. Also and most importantly, never let failure get to your heart and success to your head. 

What did you enjoy most about your graduate/professional program? 

I enjoyed being with other like-minded individuals who have the same goals and aspirations as me, and learning from the professors who are the best in their field.