Chloe's Essay
Since childhood, I’ve been captivated by the law’s power to uphold justice, protect individuals, and influence social change. This fascination has evolved over the years through life-shaping experiences that clarified my purpose: to become a lawyer and champion fairness, especially for those whose voices may not otherwise be heard. Witnessing my grandpa, Gong Gong, cast his vote as a newly naturalized citizen was a transformative moment that highlighted the law’s direct impact on individual lives and affirmed my commitment to democracy. His journey from a life under oppressive regimes in Burma and China to proudly voting in America showed me the tangible power of rights that so many of us may take for granted.
Gong Gong’s excitement during the 2016 Presidential Election was palpable; his pride and joy radiated as he exercised his right to vote. At eleven, I could sense his enthusiasm but didn’t fully grasp its importance. Only later, as I became involved in civic engagement myself, did I appreciate what that moment meant. Volunteering at the polls in 2022 was my first opportunity to be on the other side, ensuring others could experience the same empowerment my grandpa had. I arrived at St. Peter’s Church before dawn, working a long but fulfilling day to facilitate a seamless, inclusive voting process. Beyond logistical tasks, I offered Mandarin translation assistance, a small act that, for non-English speakers, could make all the difference in feeling recognized and understood. My goal was not just to complete tasks but to foster a space where everyone in my community, regardless of background or language, could confidently cast their votes.
As an election volunteer, I was reminded of the critical role democracy plays in preserving equality and justice. Seeing firsthand how essential civic engagement is for a community to thrive, I knew I wanted to spend my life ensuring justice extends beyond the voting booth into all areas of society. My work that day reflected my values: respect for individual rights, dedication to public service, and a commitment to building a stronger, more inclusive democracy. It was there that my desire to become a lawyer crystallized, as I recognized the impact I could have on my community by guiding others through complex legal systems.
Having recently entered my first semester at UC Berkeley as a political science major, I am eager to deepen my understanding of government, justice, and policy and learn how to translate this knowledge into a career. With an interest in civil and family law, I am drawn to areas of practice that are deeply personal and impactful for individuals and families. These fields directly align with my aspiration to provide trauma-informed legal assistance, supporting clients during some of the most challenging times in their lives. I envision a career in which I can offer compassionate, clear, and effective advocacy to empower clients and help them understand their rights in a way that builds trust and fosters confidence.
One of my goals as a future lawyer is to create a welcoming, trauma-sensitive environment for clients navigating emotionally charged legal issues. Civil and family law are uniquely situated to address injustices that often go unnoticed but profoundly impact people’s lives—from domestic
disputes to battles over custody or housing rights. I am driven by the possibility of affecting real change in people’s lives by giving them the legal tools they need to advocate for themselves and their loved ones. My dedication to justice extends beyond the courtroom; it lies in a deep-rooted commitment to making the law accessible, transparent, and humane. I aspire to ensure that every client I represent, particularly those from underserved communities, feels understood and supported, especially during stressful and uncertain times.
Being at UC Berkeley, a hub for social justice and advocacy, has been incredibly inspiring and has strengthened my resolve to make a difference. These early experiences within the ASUC Office of the President and the Myriad Legal Consulting Group have shown me the impact one person can have within a community and the responsibility we each carry in upholding justice. Already, I am actively involved in various law-focused organizations on campus that have provided invaluable insights and hands-on experience. As a Legal Affairs Intern in the ASUC Office of the President, I conduct in-depth legal research on ASUC bylaws and policy initiatives, collaborating closely with the Chief Legal Officer. Leading research and analytical projects, I focus on student engagement and campus resource usage, an effort aimed at enhancing accessibility to critical resources for the Berkeley student body. Analyzing ASUC Senate resolutions and bills allows me to offer data-driven recommendations, which helps guide the office’s ongoing projects and public initiatives. My work involves communicating ASUC history and data to the campus community, further instilling in me a sense of responsibility toward my peers and reinforcing the role of law in advocacy and social change.
In addition to my work with the ASUC, I am also a member of the Myriad Legal Consulting Group, a student-run organization dedicated to providing pro bono consulting services to local nonprofits. Working with the Myriad Legal Consulting Group has given me an early look into client-based legal support, particularly as it relates to community organizations and their legal challenges. Through this experience, I am learning about the day-to-day demands of legal consulting and the practical skills needed to assist clients with legal strategy, compliance, and policy analysis. These opportunities at Berkeley have not only broadened my understanding of law but have also confirmed my commitment to civil and family law, where I hope to apply similar skills in service to individuals and families.
I am inspired by the tireless dedication of attorneys and activists who have come before me, those who have paved the way in civil rights, equal representation, and legal reform. Through experiences like my election volunteer work, I have seen the impact a single person can make, and I want to amplify that impact by becoming a lawyer who dedicates their career to serving the greater good.
Receiving this scholarship would be instrumental in furthering my education and empowering me to pursue this path with fewer financial obstacles. It would enable me to fully immerse myself in my studies, engage in internships, and gain the practical skills needed to become a
compassionate advocate. I am deeply committed to giving back to my community, and I intend to pay forward the support I receive by becoming a lawyer who stands up for justice, promotes democracy, and provides accessible legal services to those in need. With this foundation, I hope to inspire others, just as my grandpa inspired me, to recognize the power of their voices and the importance of their rights.
Thank you for considering my application. This opportunity will bring me one step closer to achieving my academic and professional goals, and I am profoundly grateful for the chance to further my aspirations in law.
