Hometown: Hawaiʻi Kai/Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaiʻi

Degrees: BA Speech Communication, University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa

Why did you choose UH Law?
My decision to attend UH Law was motivated primarily by my desire to maintain a balanced lifestyle throughout law school career. I knew that law school was going to be a lot of work and sacrifice, so it was important to me that I pursue my degree in a place that allowed for me to have easy access to the activities that keep me sane, such as surfing, running and paddling. Part of this balance also included financial stability, and UH Law served as an affordable option in receiving a quality legal education. Additionally, I was especially impressed with UH Law's pro bono initiative and the emphasis that is placed on public service.

What were you doing before you started Law School?
After graduating from UH Mānoa in 2007, I moved back to Colorado and spent 2 1/2 years as a snowboarder and whitewater rafting guide in Vail, CO. Once I began to seriously consider studying law, I returned to Hawaiʻi in 2009 to work for a Senator at the Hawaiʻi State Legislature. My two years working at the Senate enhanced my desire to become involved with Hawaii's legal community and pursue a career in law.

What surprised you most about UH Law?
Students and faculty have a real, genuine desire to help each other succeed at UH Law. While I was aware that the school was especially known for its warm and welcoming nature, I continue to be surprised by how much this notion exists on a day-to-day basis.

How would you describe your classmates?
Work hard, play hard!

Where can we find you when you're not in class?
Surfing in front of Diamond Head, running around Diamond Head, or studying in the back of the library.

Describe your favorite organization and some activities related to that organization.
The UH Law School ETE Flag Football team has been a great way to get to know my fellow classmates and interact with them in a non-academic environment. The ETE season has also served as a fun, unique way of networking with UH alumni and learning about the roles that Richardson women alumni take in Hawaii's legal community. What better way to bring the entire WSRSL community together than over a game of women's flag football??

Describe your UH law school experience in 3 words.
Library = Life.

What advice would you give to an entering law student?
Before I started school, a 2L stressed to me the importance of talking with family, friends and significant others about how the nature of your relationship will shift while you're in law school and discussing ways to maintain the strength of those relationships. I didn't know it then, but this was probably the best advice I received.

Where are you headed after you graduate?
I hope to pursue a dual JD/MBA degree with the intention of opening my own practice in the future. In the meantime, I look forward to working somewhere to put my professional skills to good use and start paying back my student loans!