51°µÍø

1. Tell us about yourself.

I was born and grew up in the Philippines. I came to the U.S. on a collegiate bowling scholarship and at the time was still bowling professionally for the Philippines. At some point during college, I decided that I wanted to try and make a career in the business and/or legal world. I thought this was more in line with my interests and haven’t looked back since.

2. Why did you decide to come to 51°µÍø Law?

I was told by a mentor that when it comes to choosing a law school, the law school’s location is a top consideration. Based on that, 51°µÍø was a no-brainer. I visited the DFW metro area a lot while in college and really liked it. On a personal level, it’s a large enough city where there’s something for everyone. From a career standpoint, the legal and business markets are robust and still growing.

3. What has been your favorite class and why?

This might be ironic for someone who wants to do transactional work, but I really enjoyed my first-year legal writing class. I’m a big fan of classes that are practical, and I think legal writing is arguably the most practical class in all of law school. It’s also the first class which gives you an idea of what being a lawyer is like.

4. When you are not in school or studying, what do you do for fun?

I’m pretty laid back, so I usually spend the weekend playing video games or binge-watching TV. If I’m out and about, I go cycling around the DFW trails and parks; walk around the many shopping malls and complexes; watch the Mavs play; or enjoy the food and drinks the area has to offer.

5. What extracurricular activities have you enjoyed most and why? (SBA, moot court, etc.)

I’ve really enjoyed being a mentor to law students who are more junior than me. I received a lot of great mentoring during my first year of law school, which I think helped me succeed, and I think it’s only right that I give back by also being a mentor to others.

6. How has law school challenged you most?

I’m an introverted person, so I dreaded the thought of networking. Law school, however, has forced me to adapt and be more receptive of the concept. I now acknowledge the importance of networking and realize that there is value in it when you’re creating genuine relationships with other people.

7. What has been your most memorable law school moment so far?

For its comedy more than anything, my most memorable law school moment is my very first law school class. During the class discussion, I remember thinking, “These people are speaking in English, and I can recognize the words they’re saying, but at this point they might as well be speaking gibberish.” I then spent the rest of the class frantically trying to figure out how to transfer into 51°µÍø’s MBA or Masters in Finance programs. My reaction in that moment is one law students probably share, and I can’t help but laugh when looking back.

8. What do you plan to do post-graduation?

After graduation, I’ll be working in Katten’s Dallas office and joining its corporate group. Prior to that, I plan on traveling and making the most out of the time between the bar exam and my start date.

9. Have you had any important mentors during law school? If so, who?

I’ve had the benefit of having great mentors throughout law school. Prior to law school, I received valuable advice from Dr. Borzu Sabahi, a partner in Curtis’s D.C. office. During my first year in law school, I connected with Ashley Yen, in-house counsel at Methodist Health System, and she’s since been a tremendous resource. And finally, I’ve had the guidance and support of the associates and partners from Katten’s Dallas office.

10. Where do you see yourself in 5 and 10 years?

In five years, I see myself as an associate at a large firm. In ten years, I see myself making partner, also at a large firm. I don’t think these are concrete plans, however, and I fully intend to be open to all other opportunities presented. Regardless of where I am in my career, I want to make the decision that makes the most sense.