June 01, 2020

Shaping Success

June 01, 2020/ LAW SCHOOL … Sí Se Puede

By Karina Gonzalez, Fellow Class of 2018
Colorado State University

Law School Yes We Can (LSYWC) is a program unlike any other. The program’s mentorship, resources, and opportunities have given fellows a one-of-a-kind experience. As I finish my third year at Colorado State University, I now face LSAT prep-courses, the LSAT exam, law school applications, and graduation. All I have done leading up to this moment will greatly influence my acceptance into law schools. LSYWC has prepared me physically, mentally, and emotionally for the transition to law school.

The mentors I have been paired with through this program are my role models and biggest support system. I have the utmost respect, admiration, and love for my mentors. My two law school mentors give me a realistic look into the ins and outs of being in an area of study that has few people of color. By surpassing obstacles other students do not encounter, I find the courage to pursue a career that desperately needs diversity. My junior level attorney inspires me by noting how important studies are, but goes beyond any individual I know to enjoy the presence of nature and adventures. I hope to mirror her ability to balance her passion for the law while simultaneously enjoying all that the world has to offer. Identically, my senior level attorney is genuine and wholeheartedly devoted to equality and giving back. As a judge, she embodies my ultimate career goal and I strive to be like her one day.

The time I have spent at LSYWC events, workshops, and monthly lunch meetings has significantly impacted the way I look at my academics, personal life, and society. Building my skills and a strong social network has prepared me physically and mentally while my mentors have nurtured me emotionally. Prior to this program, I lacked confidence and direction. Now, with the help of my mentors, I have grown to see the potential I have always had. I know what I want from life, and LSYWC helped me see that more clearly. I am grateful for all LSYWC has done for me, and I hope LSYWC fellows continue to create a legacy.

“Sí, Se Puede” is a phrase born of farmworkers, who, under the leadership of the UFW, César Chávez, and Dolores Huerta, fought valiantly for equal protection under the law. As a result of the efforts of the UFW, “Sí, Se Puede” has become well known as a call that engenders hope and inspiration in those who face similar battles. We thank the UFW, whom we acknowledge to be the sole and exclusive owner of the Trademark SI SE PUEDE, for granting us a limited license to use“Sí, Se Puede” in connection with our efforts to recruit, in Colorado, students of Hispanic or Latino descent for our law school pipeline program. For more information about the programs offered by the UFW, please see UFW’s webpage (www.ufw.org); UFW Foundation’s webpage (www.ufwfoundation.org); and UFWF’s immigration services webpage (www.sisepuede.org)