Southwestern Law Student Finds Voice, Purpose Through Clinic Work
LOS ANGELES – Kristina Ramirez arrived at Southwestern Law School with a drive to serve, but it was through hands-on clinical experience that she discovered not onyl how to best utilize her legal skills, but also a newfound confidence and clarity about her career path. Ramirez’s journey, spanning multiple clinics and mentorships, exemplifies the transformative power of practical legal education and its impact on aspiring civil rights attorneys.
Ramirez’s clinical work began with the Southwestern Immigrant Representation Clinic, followed by participation in the Civil Rights Litigation Clinic and the Innocence Project Clinic. These experiences weren’t simply about applying legal theory; they were about confronting real-world challenges, advocating for vulnerable clients, and developing a resilient, client-centered approach to the law.”Being in a clinic is about learning and growing, and it’s meant to challenge you. Lean into the thing you’re most afraid of and let that push you to be a better advocate for your client!” ramirez shared.
The impact of these clinics extends beyond courtroom skills.A key figure in Ramirez’s development was a faculty mentor who initially taught her Intro to Legal Writing before her 1L year officially began, and continued to support her through Moot Court and beyond. “She challenges me because she has always known what I am capable of,even if I don’t know it myself,” Ramirez explained.”She pushes me to do better and work harder in everything I am involved in on campus, and she has been one of my biggest supporters every step of the way.”
Ramirez acknowledges the initial intimidation factor of clinic work, but encourages future students to embrace the discomfort. “It is okay to be nervous, scared, and/or unsure at the start of the clinic experience,” she says.
As Ramirez looks ahead, she intends to pursue a career in civil rights law, carrying with her the lessons learned through her clinical experiences - a commitment to open-mindedness, continuous learning, and unwavering advocacy for her clients. Southwestern Law School offers a range of clinical programs designed to provide students with similar opportunities for growth and impact. More data can be found on the school’s [Clinics page](link placeholder).
