UW Law’s Student Ambassadors are current law students who are dedicated to helping admitted students make a smooth and successful transition to law school.

As current second and third-year law students, all of our Student Ambassadors have first-hand knowledge of what it takes to thrive at UW Law. Their perspectives will help you feel more comfortable and confident as you begin your law school career.

Student Ambassadors answer questions, offer candid advice, and help new students navigate the challenges of their 1L year. If you have questions or concerns about entering law school, our ambassadors would be happy to speak with you. You can also visit our Student Organizations page to learn more.

If you have additional questions about the admissions process or would like to be connected with a student organization, please contact the Admissions Office directly at admissions@law.wisc.edu or 608-262-5914.  

Current students who are interested in getting involved with the Student Ambassador Program should complete this interest form and reach out to admissions@law.wisc.edu with any questions.

Our Student Ambassadors

Ja'Lia Butler

Headshot photo for Ja'Lia Butler, a black woman wearing a black top with a black blazer draped over her shoulders while smiling at the camera in front of a swirly silver and gray background.

Hometown: Chicago, IL

Undergrad school and major: UW- Madison: Political Science and Legal Studies, Minor in Criminal Justice

Interests: Election and Political Law; Labor and Employment Law

Expected Graduation Date: May 2025

Contact: jpbutler2@wisc.edu

Q&A with Ja'Lia

Why did you decide to come to UW Law School? 

I went to UW for undergrad so I was very familiar and comfortable with the campus and I wanted a sense of familiarity and comfortableness going into what I knew would be a challenging time in my life. Everyone that I met, from staff to students, were so open, honest, and welcoming. Getting a chance to attend one of the top public institutions with genuinely nice people, amazing opportunities, and of course, diploma privilege, was going to be pretty hard to beat.

What did you do the summer before you started law school? 

I worked as a Office Services Specialist at a local law firm called Stafford Rosenbaum.

What is one thing you wish you knew about law school or the admissions process ahead of time? 

One thing I wish I knew was that nothing truly prepares you for law school. You really just have to figure things out as you go, and trust me, you will figure everything out! You should enjoy your summer before school starts: spend time with loved ones, explore, take a vacation, etc.

What student organizations or activities are you involved in? 

Black Law Students Association, Antitrust Law Association, Mock Trial, Themis Bar Review

Discuss any exciting jobs or internships you’ve had while in law school. 

Currently, I am a clinical law student in the Eviction Defense Clinic. I am also externing for Senator Tammy Baldwin. This past summer I worked at Godfrey & Kahn in their Milwaukee Office.

Any other interesting facts about you? 

I have always been told that I make the best brownies! I love binge watching new Netflix series so if you have any recommendations please let me know and I may make you a batch of my famous brownies.

Sabrina Dornan

Headshot photo of Sabrina Dornan

Hometown: Chicago, IL and Milwaukee, WI

Undergrad school and major: UW-Madison with majors in Psychology and Spanish and certificates in Criminal Justice and Chicano/Latino Studies

Interests: Real Estate

Expected Graduation Date: May 2025

Contact: dornan@wisc.edu

Q&A with Sabrina

Why did you decide to come to UW Law School? 

After attending UW-Madison for undergrad, I knew UW's Law School would be a great fit for me. I was attracted to UW's clinical offerings that allow students to get hands on experience early on in their law school career. Plus, I knew I wanted to stay in the Midwest post-graduation and UW offers access access to all of the major midwest job markets.

What did you do the summer before you started law school? 

The summer before law school, I was a paralegal at an immigration non-profit in Chicago. I worked primarily with unaccompanied immigrant children on their legal cases.

What is one thing you wish you knew about law school or the admissions process ahead of time? 

I wish I learned sooner that it is okay to study in a different way than other students around me. Early on in law school, it is easy to compare yourself to others and think that everyone's method is better than yours, but everyone is different and learns in a unique way. Once I learned this myself, I became much more efficient in keeping up with my readings.

What student organizations or activities are you involved in? 

I am the current Co-President of La Alianza, our Latinx Law Student Association. I am a member of the Women's Law Student Association and the Real Estate and Securities Investment Law Society. I am also a clinical student in the Neighborhood Law Clinic.

Discuss any exciting jobs or internships you’ve had while in law school. 

My 1L summer, I was a summer associate at a large law firm in Milwaukee. I feel so fortunate to have spent my summer with a firm that allowed me to explore my interests in various practice areas.

Any other interesting facts about you? 

I am a huge Chicago Bears Fan! I try to watch every game throughout the season (even if we usually lose).

Jake Kealy

Headshot photo of Jake Kealy.

Hometown: Janesville, WI

Undergrad school and major: University of Wisconsin-Whitewater: Public Policy & Economics (B.S.), Management and Finance (M.B.A)

Interests: Military Justice (JAG Corps), State & Local Government Law, Startups/Entrepreneurship

Expected Graduation Date: May 2025

Contact: jckealy@wisc.edu

Q&A with Jake

Why did you decide to come to UW Law School? 

Being a lifelong Wisconsinite, UW Law was the no-brainer choice because of its nationwide reputation, student-friendly location, and practical law-in-action approach. I came to law school to break down barriers and open career options, specifically in the public sector. The clinical programs at UW Law allow you to gain practical experience in various areas of the law such as criminal law, business law, constitutional law, and family law.

What did you do the summer before you started law school? 

I worked two jobs. I worked in the Congressional Office in my home district and I tended bar at my family's gastropub. I answered constituent calls by day and made old fashions by night. I loved it. In addition, I completed my MBA studies in August, a few weeks before my first day of classes.

What is one thing you wish you knew about law school or the admissions process ahead of time? 

Your law school peers are your greatest resource. Your peers will go on to be law firm partners, judges, politicians, and other change agents. Be courteous and build relationships with as many of your classmates as you can, as you never know who will be on the other side of the courtroom or podium. As a prospective applicant, you are a future asset to the law school community and overall legal community. Be proud of your unique perspectives and background. The diversity in the classroom is what makes law school great.

What student organizations or activities are you involved in? 

First Generation Lawyers, Wisconsin International Law Society, Business and Tax Law Society, Government and Legislative Clinic, Law and Entrepreneurship Clinic, Prosecution Project

Discuss any exciting jobs or internships you’ve had while in law school. 

During my 1L summer, I worked at a mid-size general practice law firm in my hometown where I gained practical experience drafting contracts, writing legal memos, conducting client meetings, and building legal connections in my local legal community. Through the Government and Legislative Clinic, I extern at the Wisconsin Department of Justice (DOJ) in their Special Litigation and Appeals Unit. The highlight was conducting research and contributing to a Wisconsin Supreme Court Brief, where the DOJ prevailed. I also participated in various Moot Courts and witnessed oral advocacy before the Wisconsin Supreme Court. Through the Law and Entrepreneurship Clinic, I worked closely with small business owners to help turn their ideas into reality. I gained practical experience managing my client load, conducting client meetings, drafting real work products, and billing my time. I also was able to collaborate closely with often creative business owners who varied from first-time business owners to serial entrepreneurs. Through the Prosecution Project, I took refined coursework focused specifically on the role of the prosecutor in the legal system. This summer I will be in the Rock County DA's office where I will be tasked with issuing charging decisions, drafting complaints, conducting initial appearances/hearings, and trying cases. Upon graduation, I will enter the Navy JAG Corps, as a Judge Advocate General (JAG) Officer. I am commissioning through their student program which allows me to be an inactive officer in the United States Navy while in Law School with a guaranteed job upon graduation.

Any other interesting facts about you? 

I played College Disc Golf (yes it is a thing). Our team competed in events across the country in preparation for the Collegiate Disc Golf Championships in Rock Hill, SC. We also had a course on campus at UW-Whitewater. In my free time, I enjoy working out, playing poker with friends, and exploring Madison's various restaurant and bar options. I also have two orange cats; Otis and Maverick.

Sam Kennedy

A headshot photo of Sam Kennedy

Hometown: Indianapolis, IN

Undergrad school and major: Indiana University: Finance/Law, Ethics, and Decision-Making

Interests: Corporate Finance and Securities Litigation

Expected Graduation Date: 2025

Contact: sgkennedy3@wisc.edu

Q&A with Sam

Why did you decide to come to UW Law School? 

As a grad of another big ten school, I knew I loved the campus environment, and I knew that I wanted to go to a school that has strong ties to the Midwest. When I visited, I loved how Madison was the perfect size to give off the feel of a college town and a city. From there it was an easy choice!

What did you do the summer before you started law school? 

Before attending law school, I spend a couple years working for a corporate law firm in Chicago. After that job ended, I spend the summer months traveling around Europe.

What is one thing you wish you knew about law school or the admissions process ahead of time? 

That it will all work out! Law school can be very daunting. Everyone spends the first couple of months trying to find out "the secret" of how to succeed. The truth is there is no "one way" to do things. In time, everyone finds their own way. It can be a little uncomfortable, but everything gets easier as you get used to it. Before you know it the things that worried you as a 1L are a breeze!

What student organizations or activities are you involved in? 

I am in the Law and Entrepreneurship clinic and Moot Court. I also am a member of the Business and Tax Law Society and the Sports and Entertainment Law Society.

Discuss any exciting jobs or internships you’ve had while in law school. 

After my 1L year, I was a summer associate for a big law firm. It was a great experience and I'm excited to return to the firm next summer!

Any other interesting facts about you? 

I love exploring Madison, especially to try new restaurants. Otherwise, you will probably find me watching my favorite sports tea

Gabriella Marquez

A headshot photo of Gabrielle Marquez smiling at the camera while wearing a black top with buttons.

Hometown: El Paso, Texas

Undergrad school and major: The University of Texas at El Paso: Political Science

Interests: Criminal Law, Health Law, Local Government

Expected Graduation Date: May 2025

Contact: marquez6@wisc.edu

Q&A with Gabriella

Why did you decide to come to UW Law School? 

UW Law is a nationally-recognized program, has a far-reaching alumni network, attracts students from all over the country, and provides many clinical opportunities to ensure all students have the opportunity to gain real-world experience while still in school. Madison is also a beautiful and affordable capital city with lots of outdoor activities, offering a great qualify of life.

What did you do the summer before you started law school? 

I worked at an elementary school as a tutor and had so much fun with the kids! I was back home so I was able to spend a ton of time with my family and close friends, enjoying the last of my free time.

What is one thing you wish you knew about law school or the admissions process ahead of time? 

I wish I'd listened to people who advised me to prioritize self-care and exercise. 1L is hard enough and it can be really easy to tell yourself you don't have time to go out for a walk because you have to catch up on readings. The readings aren't going anywhere! Your mind needs a break and your body needs to move.

What student organizations or activities are you involved in? 

I am a clinical student with the Wisconsin Innocence Project, VP of Academic Affairs for La Alianza, and a TA for an undergrad class.

Discuss any exciting jobs or internships you’ve had while in law school. 

During my 1L summer, I interned at the El Paso County Attorney's Office. Half of my time there was with the general counsel unit for the commissioner's court and the other half was spent with the juvenile prosecution department. I learned a lot about the inner workings of local government and everything that goes into running a city. During the second half of the summer, I interned at the Texas Hospital Association. I started soon after the state's legislative session ended so I was able to help member hospitals by answering questions on new laws. During my 2L spring semester, I am externing at the State of Wisconsin's Department of Workforce Development, Equal Rights Division.

Anthony Molina

Headshot photo of Anthony Molina.

Hometown: Naperville, IL

Undergrad school and major: University of Iowa: B.A. Ethics, Public Policy & Public Health

Interests: Healthcare and Life Sciences, Corporate Law

Expected Graduation Date: May 2025

Contact: acmolina@wisc.edu

Q&A with Anthony

Why did you decide to come to UW Law School? 

I came to Wisconsin Law because, coming from the Midwest, my priority was to find a school with strong job connections in the region. Wisconsin had a solid reputation in the Wisconsin and Midwest job markets, which made it a great option for me. I was also impressed by the dedicated faculty who prioritized teaching. What ultimately sealed the deal for me was the diverse range of career goals within the student body, creating an environment where job opportunities, clinic placements, and other positions were more accessible. This setting allowed me to learn from my classmates' experiences, which I found extremely valuable.

What did you do the summer before you started law school? 

Before law school, I worked in Washington, DC as a health policy researcher at a large research firm. Part of my job was to manage teams to win government research contracts for the firm. The other part of my job was to evaluate existing health initiatives and assess the impacts of legal decisions within the reproductive health, medical technology, and health insurance spaces.

What is one thing you wish you knew about law school or the admissions process ahead of time? 

Entering law school can feel daunting, especially if you lack prior experience in a law firm or don't have any attorney connections (like I did). Looking back on my admissions process and first year, I wish I had realized that law school attracts individuals with a diverse range of backgrounds. No one's past experiences inherently grant them an advantage in succeeding in their classes. It's important to understand that your unique experiences, whatever they may be, hold their own intrinsic value. Embrace the skills you bring and demonstrate how they can contribute to your journey toward becoming a successful student and attorney.

What student organizations or activities are you involved in? 

I am on the Wisconsin Law Review and serve on the board of APIDALSA (the Asian Student Association). I am also a Peer Mentor and involved in QLaw (the Queer Student Association).

Discuss any exciting jobs or internships you’ve had while in law school. 

After my 1L year, I was a Judicial Intern through the Wisconsin Supreme Court Program and was placed in Waukesha. It was a great experience working with judges across commercial, criminal, and civil law, and I enjoyed seeing the litigation side of practicing law. As my 2L year began, I started working as a Patient Advocate through the Center for Patient Partnerships " UW's health justice clinic. In the summer of 2024, I will be a summer associate at a big law firm in Chicago.

Any other interesting facts about you? 

I have my dog with me in Madison and love to explore the lakes and trails with him. I also enjoy rock climbing, grilling on a nice day, and walking aimlessly around Target's home goods section to destress.

Noemi Reyes

Headshot photo of Noemi Reyes

Hometown: Tampa, FL

Undergrad school and major: University of Florida

Interests: Business Law

Expected Graduation Date: May 2025

Contact: nreyes9@wisc.edu

Q&A with Noemi

Why did you decide to come to UW Law School? 

I never knew I was interested in law until I served as a Victim Advocate at the office of the state attorney. That was the first time I ever sat in a court room or spoke with attorneys and it was an experience that stuck with me even after I completed grad school and went on to work full time. I also came from a social work background so I felt that obtaining a law degree was the next best step to helping others.

What did you do the summer before you started law school? 

I worked as a Project Director managing a grant to prevent and respond to dating and sexual violence on a college campus. A big part of my job involved planning events for students and guest lecturing. I also took a pottery class!

What is one thing you wish you knew about law school or the admissions process ahead of time? 

Don't be afraid to ask for support. Whether its from mentors, professors, or peers, most people want to help you. I always felt like I was pestering others when I needed help figuring something out but that couldn't be further from the truth.

What student organizations or activities are you involved in? 

I'm the Legal Liaison for La Alianza, a member of First Generation Lawyers, and the Women's Law Student Association.

Discuss any exciting jobs or internships you’ve had while in law school. 

I served as a legal clerk for Molson Coors! That was by far one of the most exciting experiences I have had so far. I learned a lot about the beverage industry, but even more about the intersection between business and law.

Any other interesting facts about you? 

I'm a cacti enthusiast. Before moving to Wisconsin I had an extensive cacti collection. My dream would be to have a Saguero in my own private collection. I also have a three-legged dog named Nemo.

Macrina Schry

Headshot photo of Macrina Schry

Hometown: Oshkosh, WI

Undergrad school and major: 

University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh: BA in English with Minors in Business Administration, Law and Policy, and Spanish

Interests: Civil Rights Law, Criminal Law, Family Law, Municipal Law

Expected Graduation Date: May 2025

Contact: mschry@wisc.edu

Q&A with Macrina

Why did you decide to come to UW Law School? 

The University of Wisconsin Law School was my first choice for many reasons, but I was particularly drawn to Wisconsin's clinical programs and the school's commitment to fostering community advocacy and engagement.

What did you do the summer before you started law school? 

After graduating from University of Wisconsin Oshkosh, I worked for a year as a Legal Advocate for a domestic violence shelter in Appleton, WI.

What is one thing you wish you knew about law school or the admissions process ahead of time? 

Don't let imposter syndrome get you down! When applying to law school, it's easy to compare your grades and LSAT scores to those of other students and begin wonder whether you're worthy of admission. While grades and LSAT scores are certainly very important, they are not the only factors which determine your eligibility for admission. The admissions team also carefully considers your character and unique lived experiences to determine whether you will be a good fit for the incoming law school class. You have worked hard to make it to the law school admissions process, so when applying, just be your honest and authentic self.

What student organizations or activities are you involved in? 

First Generation Lawyers, QLaw, Advocates for Immigrants' Rights

Discuss any exciting jobs or internships you’ve had while in law school. 

During my 1L summer internship I worked for the Winnebago County Office of Corporation Counsel where I had the opportunity to co-author two appellate briefs and sit second-chair for a jury trial. This year I am also participating in the Wisconsin Innocence Project Clinic.

Any other interesting facts about you? 

I am a twin, I was in a cover band in high school, and my favorite novel is "Les Miserables" by Victor Hugo.

Amber Sherwood

Headshot photo of Amber Sherwood with light skin, glasses, blonde hair, wearing a black blazer with a white top.

Hometown: Las Vegas, NV

Undergrad school and major: Nevada State College: Psychology Major

Interests: Criminal Defense

Expected Graduation Date: 2025

Contact: alsherwood@wisc.edu

Q&A with Amber

Why did you decide to come to UW Law School? 

The public interest course work here is very good. I also love the city of Madison, and want to stay after graduation.

What did you do the summer before you started law school? 

I worked with adult adoptees, all of whom wanted to find out about their birth parents or social/medical history.

What is one thing you wish you knew about law school or the admissions process ahead of time? 

I wish I knew that, yes it is hard, but it is not as scary as people will make it seem when you talk about wanting to go to law school.

What student organizations or activities are you involved in? 

VP of Academic Enrichment for First Generation Lawyers

Discuss any exciting jobs or internships you’ve had while in law school. 

I got to work with the State Public Defender's Office in Janesville summer after 1L.

Any other interesting facts about you? 

I have lived in 10 different states and been to 23.

Nikhita Singam

A headshot photo of Nikhita Singam smiling at the camera while wearing a white top with buttons.

Hometown: Jacksonville, Florida

Undergrad school and major: NALSAR University of Law

Interests: Intellectual Property, Entertainment Law & Immigration Law

Expected Graduation Date: May 2025

Contact: nsingam@wisc.edu

Q&A with Nikhita

Why did you decide to come to UW Law School? 

I was keen on finding a school that provides hands-on legal experience. I chose UW Law because of its focus on Law in Action through the many Clinical Programs the school hosts. The location of the school was also a factor. Madison offers a blend of urban and natural environments. UW Law has a reputation for academic rigor because of Diploma Privilege, which was also a selling point!

What did you do the summer before you started law school? 

I had just graduated from law school in India, so I took the summer off to spend time with friends and family. Law school is challenging, and taking time off to reset is important, so you're ready to give it your all!

What is one thing you wish you knew about law school or the admissions process ahead of time? 

It's important to start early and plan strategically for the admission process because it takes time to collect strong letters of recommendation and craft a compelling personal statement. Once you get into law school, it's crucial to be intentional with your time and to have fun!

What student organizations or activities are you involved in? 

Asian Pacific Islander Desi American Law Students Association, Women's Law Student Association, First Generation Lawyers, Intellectual Property Students Organization, and Sports & Entertainment Law Society

Discuss any exciting jobs or internships you’ve had while in law school. 

In the summer of 2023, I worked at the Constitutional Litigation, Appeals, and Sentencing Project (CLASP) on post-conviction cases, particularly ineffective assistance of counsel claims. I've also spent my summers interning at the High Courts of Telangana and Tamil Nadu and working at a corporate law firm in India.

Any other interesting facts about you? 

I am a first-generation lawyer and I spent the last ten years living in India. I love to travel and experiment in the kitchen with new recipes. Over the pandemic, I helped my family convert our backyard into a fruit and herb garden!

Steven Slack

Headshot of Steven Slack smiling at the camera while wearing black partial-frame glasses, a black blazer, and a checkered red shirt.

Hometown: Green Bay, WI

Undergrad school and major: UW-Madison: Communication Arts - Radio, TV, & Film

Interests: Non-Profit, Government, Indian Law, Criminal

Expected Graduation Date: May 2025

Contact: stslack@wisc.edu

Q&A with Steven

Why did you decide to come to UW Law School? 

I've been in the Madison area for 20 years

What did you do the summer before you started law school? 

The same thing everyone did the Summer of 21: celebrated the Bucks' Championship.

What is one thing you wish you knew about law school or the admissions process ahead of time? 

Everyone applying--including you--is smart; they will have good grades, good test scores, or both. Do your best to distill what it is that makes you unique (why you're applying, what you hope to do, what you've already done, what "law" means to you, etc) into that personal statement. Often, it's the only opportunity you'll have to represent your actual self to Admissions.

What student organizations or activities are you involved in? 

I'm the president of the Students for Accessibility, Disability, and Accommodation (ADA) and Treasurer of the Indigenous Law Students Association (ILSA). I'm also in Mock Trial and sporadically attend meetings for PILF and the American Constitution Society.

Discuss any exciting jobs or internships you’ve had while in law school. 

I really enjoyed the Eviction Defense Clinic which provided a TON of hands-on courtroom experience. I've also spent a summer in Governor Evers' office and another with Judicare, a non-profit Civil Legal Aid organization.

Any other interesting facts about you? 

The most interesting parts of me are all at home: an incredible partner, three hilarious/maniacal children, and an anxiety-stricken mutt.

Katie Sticklen

Katie Sticklen headshot

Hometown: Joplin, MO

Undergrad school and major: University of Missouri: Journalism and Women's and Gender Studies

Interests: Constitutional Law, Tort

Expected Graduation Date: May 2024

Contact: ksticklen@wisc.edu

Q&A with Katie

Why did you decide to come to UW Law School?

I fell in love with Madison on my tour of UW Law School. I had never been to Wisconsin before my tour, and loved the lakes, food, and activities available in Madison. I also was very interested in living in a combination of a city and college town, and Madison is the perfect combination.

What did you do the summer before you started law school?

The summer before law school, I took time off to relax, read, and spend time with friends and family.

What is one thing you wish you knew about law school or the admissions process ahead of time?

I wish I knew to carve out time to explore Madison! I spent way too much time indoors my 1L year, and wish I would have taken advantage of all Madison has to offer. Whether it be exploring the outdoors, going to new restaurants, or going to Henry Villas Zoo, Madison has a lot to offer!

What student organizations or activities are you involved in?

Wisconsin Journal of Law, Gender & Society, Women's Law Student Association, AEP Criminal Discussion Leader

Discuss any exciting jobs or internships you’ve had while in law school.

While in law school, I interned at the Freedom From Religion Foundation, and with the Honorable Cotton S. Walker in Cole County, Missouri.

Any other interesting facts about you?

I love being involved in the community I live in, so my favorite experiences so far have been volunteering at the local Ronald McDonald House and advising a sorority chapter at UW. Since I am not from Wisconsin and did not attend UW for undergrad, getting involved in the Madison community helped me better adjust to a new state/city.

Colby Thornton

Headshot photo of Colby Thornton, wearing black framed glasses, a gray suit jacket, blue tie, white shirt, and smiling at the camera.

Hometown: St. Joseph, MO

Undergrad school and major: University of Missouri: Business Administartion

Interests: Public Interest, Labor & Employment, and State & Local Government

Expected Graduation Date: May 2025

Contact: cbthornton@wisc.edu

Q&A with Colby

Why did you decide to come to UW Law School? 

I came to UW Law because of its commitment to experiential learning. Being from the Show-Me state, I value getting to experience the work I will be doing in the future and UW Law offered that in a way other law schools did not. Also, the campus is really pretty!

What did you do the summer before you started law school? 

Worked with the Division of Student Affairs at the University of Missouri, specifically in the area of campus involvement.

What is one thing you wish you knew about law school or the admissions process ahead of time? 

What works for you is what works for you. Everyone has different approaches to law school, there is no one right way to do it so do not get bogged down by what others are doing.

What student organizations or activities are you involved in? 

QLaw, First Generation Lawyers, and the Public Interest Law Foundation

Discuss any exciting jobs or internships you’ve had while in law school. 

I was a clerk for the Madison City Attorney which exposed me to so many different areas of law and how they interact with the local government.

Any other interesting facts about you? 

I have seen my top 3 most streamed artists in concert

Gracie Wendt

A headshot photo of Gracie Wendt, a blonde haired and fair skinned woman with hazel eyes. She is smiling, wearing a white top, and standing in front of a gray swirled background.

Hometown: Freedom, WI

Undergrad school and major: Marquette University, Psychology and Criminology & Legal Studies

Interests: Labor and Employment Law - Employee Side

Expected Graduation Date: May 2025

Contact: glwendt@wisc.edu

Q&A with Gracie

Why did you decide to come to UW Law School? 

As a lifelong Wisconsinite, I was excited to attend law school in my state's capitol city of Madison! Moreover, my choice to attend school in Wisconsin made diploma privilege a possibility. This allows me to practice Wisconsin law, and federal law, without taking a bar exam.

What did you do the summer before you started law school? 

I worked as a full-time Bartender/Beverage Cart Server at a public golf course in my hometown!

What is one thing you wish you knew about law school or the admissions process ahead of time? 

I wish I knew that all law students, professors, and deans were normal people! The legal profession may be intimidating, particularly for a first generation law student, and the imposter syndrome might feel very real. I felt much more free when I put away preconceived notions about the people I was surrounded by. UW is a very supportive school, and it is important to remember that everyone is rooting for you!

What student organizations or activities are you involved in? 

I am involved with the Eviction Defense Clinic, Neighborhood Law Clinic, Wisconsin Journal of Law, Gender, and Society, Secretary for the Labor & Employment Student Association and a member of the Women's Law Student Association.

Discuss any exciting jobs or internships you’ve had while in law school. 

During the summer after my 1L year, I worked for a Plaintiff's side law firm that specializes in representing railroad employees! It has been a pleasure to continue this work throughout the school year. In addition, I volunteered for the Marquette Volunteer Legal Clinic and the Milwaukee Justice Center's Family Forms Clinic, Expungement Clinic, and Helpline.

Any other interesting facts about you? 

Despite the infamous amount of reading that is generally associated with law school, I still find time to read for fun, and I track it on my "bookstagram!"


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