Duke Law Life

I wanted to go to a law school with a really strong community where I knew I would find influential mentors and lifelong friends. After a few years of living in New York City, I liked that Duke was small and had a real campus feel where I could focus on school and immerse myself in everything it offered. 

I think I’ve become a better problem solver and even more excited about all that I can do with this degree. More specifically, I’ve always been passionate about child advocacy, as I began volunteering with children’s charities at age six, later led a nonprofit for young adults with disabilities, and eventually became a special education teacher. Right from the start, my time at Duke has given me meaningful opportunities to work with children through the Bolch Institute’s Trauma-Informed Courts Initiative, Durham County Courts, and now in the Children’s Law Clinic. I hoped my law degree would expand my impact, and I feel like I already have.

• Opportunities to engage with the community! Before coming to law school, I had never even heard of Guardian ad Litem volunteers, but before the end of my first semester of 1L, I officially became one alongside four other amazing women in my class. Tons of students here take clinical courses or work with local nonprofits that depend on support from law students. I even have a friend who volunteers at the Durham Farmer’s Market every weekend!
• There’s so much to do! I’ve had season tickets to Duke Men’s Basketball two years in a row, and I love going to Durham Bulls games when they’re in season. For those who want to be outdoors, we’re just a few hours away from the beach and the mountains in addition to the many hiking trails in and around Durham. Plus, Durham has the best weather of anywhere I’ve ever lived by far.
• The restaurants! All the friends and family who have visited me in Durham have been amazed by all the great places there are to eat all over the city. I’m heading into year 3 and still have so many to try.