Our Recent Graduate

The Me Before Law School: I attended Duquesne University and graduated from the University at Buffalo in 2021 with a B.A. in Political Science. Initially, I had planned to participate in the 3+3 program at Duquesne, but I transferred to Buffalo once they began offering the same program, as I wanted to be closer to home.

Although I had not originally intended to take a gap year before starting law school, the COVID-19 pandemic and my desire to gain practical experience in the field led me to do so. During my gap year, I began working in personal injury and later transitioned into commercial real estate and finance. I’m grateful for that time — it allowed me to confirm my career path and gain invaluable experience that has significantly shaped my professional journey.

Outside the Classroom:
Outside the classroom, I’ve been actively involved in various student groups. I serve as an SBA Class Director, Secretary of the Asian Pacific American Law Students Association, and am a member of multiple organizations, including the Domestic Violence Task Force and the Military Law and Veterans Association.

I also worked during the school year in both my second and third years. In my second year, I worked at a mid-sized law firm focusing on personal injury. During my third year, I worked at Hodgson Russ in commercial real estate, where I will be employed following my admission to the Bar.

Outside of law-related activities, you’ll most likely find me at Power Yoga Buffalo, restaurants, or sporting events. My main hobbies include enjoying good food and having a great time. To balance this out, I try to attend workout classes with friends — a great way to stay active and catch up amidst our busy lives.

Favorite Class:
My favorite classes were Evidence and Criminal Procedure, both taught by Professor David Coombs. It was surprising because I didn’t pursue a field where I would directly apply the teachings from these classes. I appreciated them because they were most analogous to logic games — offering clear right answers, unlike more theoretical courses. Additionally, both classes imparted valuable knowledge that extends beyond the criminal justice realm.

What I’ll Remember Most:
Like Chloe, I’ll always remember dressing up as Professor Long during our 1L spring. It was one of those random but unforgettable moments.

Another favorite memory from that first year was going bowling with classmates from my section — many of whom became some of my closest friends. The outing was inspired by our large memorandum assignment, which centered on a dispute involving a bowling alley. It was a fun, lighthearted way to bond outside the classroom and take a break from the intensity of law school.

Who I Am Now & What’s Next:
I’ve genuinely enjoyed my law school experience and have learned so much that I’ll carry with me throughout my career. That said, I’m excited to begin life after graduation and the bar exam.

As a reward for the hard work and dedication I’ve put into preparing for the bar, I’ll be spending two weeks in Northern Italy, exploring Florence, Rome, and Venice. When I return, I’ll begin my legal career at Hodgson Russ. Amidst all these exciting transitions, I’ll also be planning a wedding and preparing to become an aunt for the first time.

Why UB School of Law is the Place to Be:
An incoming law student is likely to feel scared, anxious, and nervous. My advice is: don’t be. While that’s easier said than done, UB School of Law truly supports its students and helps them succeed.

The library has study group rooms where students can collaborate and bounce ideas off one another. In many classes, presentations and oral arguments are required — excellent opportunities to build confidence and sharpen public speaking skills.

UB School of Law understands that every student has unique strengths and weaknesses, and it embraces each individual’s law school journey.