About me

Why I Chose International Studies and Pre-Law

From my senior year in high school, I became captivated by the way international politics shape global events and how legal systems help resolve conflicts both within nations and across borders. The study of International Studies allows me to engage with the dynamics of global policies and diplomatic relations, while my Pre-Law minor provides a foundational understanding of the legal system and the essential skills needed to analyze and interpret law.

The decision to pursue both disciplines was driven by my interest in how law can act as a tool for justice on a global scale. I am particularly fascinated by the intersection of law and diplomacy, as well as how legal structures can resolve conflicts, protect human rights, and ensure fair governance. My studies have made me aware of how the law can serve as both a safeguard and a source of challenge for marginalized communities, motivating me to pursue a career where I can advocate for justice and equality.

My passion for law also stems from my family’s experiences, particularly from my Apache-American heritage. This has given me a personal understanding of how legal frameworks can impact indigenous communities and other marginalized groups, and it motivates me to pursue law as a means of advocating for those whose voices are too often overlooked. I want to help people from similar backgrounds navigate the legal system and empower them to use the law for positive change.

Academic and Professional Background

At SIUE, I have had the opportunity to explore global issues through my International Studies major, which has helped me develop a deep understanding of international politics, diplomacy, and global conflicts. Additionally, my Pre-Law minor has provided me with a robust foundation in legal theory, research, and analysis, as well as practical skills such as persuasive writing and argumentation.

Through my role as a CODES scholar with the National Great Rivers Research and Education Center (NGRREC), I have gained hands-on experience working in social media outreach and educational campaigns. This experience has sharpened my communication and strategic thinking skills, which are crucial for a future in law, where the ability to advocate clearly and effectively is paramount.

I have also had the chance to engage with several professors and peers in discussions around legal systems and global governance, expanding my understanding of how different legal frameworks function within various political and cultural contexts. These experiences have further solidified my desire to pursue law and use it as a tool to address both domestic and international challenges.

Career Plans After Graduation

After completing my Bachelor’s degree, I plan to attend law school, where I intend to keep my options open while exploring the areas of Dispute Resolution Law and International Law. I am drawn to Dispute Resolution Law because of its emphasis on negotiation, mediation, and arbitration, and the potential to help parties resolve conflicts without resorting to litigation. I believe that these methods offer more efficient, sustainable, and less adversarial solutions to legal disputes, which could be particularly valuable in both national and international contexts.

Simultaneously, I am deeply interested in International Law, as it plays a critical role in governing relationships between nations and ensuring the protection of human rights across borders. My goal is to explore how international legal frameworks, such as treaties, conventions, and human rights law, can address global issues ranging from conflicts to environmental protection. I am particularly motivated by the possibility of working in areas like international human rights law, where I can advocate for vulnerable populations and contribute to creating more equitable global systems.

Though I am still considering various career paths within the legal profession, I aspire to work in government agenciesor international organizations that focus on dispute resolution, human rights, or international law. Whether I pursue a career in diplomacy, international conflict resolution, or legal advocacy, my primary goal is to use the law as a means of advancing justice, protecting individual rights, and fostering peace.