Issa's Essay
The Path to Advocacy: Why I Chose Law as My Calling
Inspiration often stems from lived experiences, and my journey toward becoming a lawyer is deeply rooted in my personal history, professional encounters, and passion for advocating for underserved populations. My aspiration to enter the legal field is not merely a career choice but a commitment to creating equity, fostering justice, and amplifying the voices of those who often go unheard.
What Inspired My Interest in Law
My motivation to become a lawyer crystallized during my time as a social work student and community advocate. Witnessing the intersection of law and social work in addressing systemic issues—whether through housing advocacy, criminal justice reform, or disability rights—showed me the profound influence that lawyers can have on individuals and communities.
One pivotal moment occurred during my tenure as a chaplain at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania. I supported patients facing life-altering decisions, many of whom were entangled in legal complexities related to medical directives, insurance, or housing. Seeing the limitations of what I could do as a social worker made me realize the need for legal expertise to provide holistic advocacy.
Another significant influence was my work with the Accessibility Committee at Temple University. Collaborating with students and faculty to dismantle barriers for individuals with disabilities underscored the power of legal policies to foster inclusion. It was here that I recognized the potential to combine my passion for social work with the tools of law to address systemic inequities.
What Interests Me Most About Law
Among the myriad fields within law, civil rights and business law resonate most strongly with me. Civil rights law appeals to my drive to dismantle systemic injustices, especially for marginalized communities. I am particularly interested in issues surrounding housing equity, disability rights, and access to quality education.
Business law, on the other hand, offers an opportunity to create ethical frameworks that promote diversity and inclusion within corporate environments. My background in social work, combined with my academic minor in business law, has equipped me to approach corporate issues with a lens of equity and ethical responsibility.
Future Plans and Application of Legal Knowledge
Upon completing law school, I plan to focus on advocating for policy reforms that address inequities in housing, healthcare, and education. My goal is to work with nonprofit organizations or government agencies to craft policies that prioritize vulnerable populations.
Additionally, I intend to establish a pro bono initiative that provides legal services to low-income families, immigrants, and individuals with disabilities. I believe that access to legal counsel should not be a privilege but a right. By bridging my social work experience with my legal education, I aim to create comprehensive solutions that address both the immediate and structural needs of my clients.
Impact on the Greater Community
The role of a lawyer extends beyond courtrooms and contracts—it is about empowering communities and shaping a more just society. As a lawyer, I hope to leave a legacy of empowerment and systemic change. My work will focus on elevating the voices of the disenfranchised and building frameworks that enable sustainable progress.
One way I hope to impact the greater community is through education and mentorship. As someone who has benefited from mentorship in programs like AmeriCorps and Teach for America Ignite, I am committed to paying it forward by mentoring aspiring lawyers from diverse backgrounds.
Moreover, my work will center on creating partnerships between legal professionals, social workers, and community leaders. These collaborations will amplify the effectiveness of interventions and ensure that solutions are culturally competent and sustainable.
Conclusion
Choosing to pursue a career in law is not merely an academic or professional decision for me; it is a calling driven by a deep commitment to justice and equity. Through law, I seek to address systemic injustices, empower vulnerable populations, and create lasting change in my community. The road ahead is challenging, but I am guided by the belief that the pursuit of justice is the highest form of service.
I am honored to apply for this scholarship and to share my story with you. This opportunity represents not only a step forward in my academic journey but also a step closer to realizing my vision of a more equitable world.
