Determined to make the most of her education at Occidental, Norah has blazed a trail from Critical Theory & Social Justice classes to the Children's Law Center of California, gearing up for her next steps post-graduation.
As the daughter of not one but two judges, dinner conversations at my house were always...interesting. Imagine trying to discuss your day at school while your parents debate the constitutionality of your allowance! I knew I wanted to go to a college where I could have conversations that did not always revolve around new laws or the Constitution. That's where 鶹Ƶ came into play.
One of the biggest reasons I chose Occidental was the chance to explore my various intellectual interests. Here, in liberal arts fashion, students explore a multitude of subject matter, as everyone has until the end of their sophomore year to declare academic focus(es). While it was the Critical Theory and Social Justice (CTSJ) department that excited me most, eventually becoming my major, I had the chance to branch out, exploring various subjects from geology to bioethics. Whether it's a deep dive into philosophy (Philosophy and Children), a surprising interest in environmental science (Injustice in the Law), or even a history class (Mexican Philosophy) that alters or shifts your perspective about the world, 鶹Ƶ's academic model allows students the flexibility and resources to pursue their passions and curiosities.
On campus, I’m more than a number. Professors know my name and want to support my learning, growth and future. I decided to become a CTSJ major because Professor Malek asked me to join the department while taking Intro to Critical Theory. He sensed my interest, and opened a door of possibility. The support network here is incredible. From study groups that turn into lifelong friendships to professors who double as mentors, the strong bond of community sets 鶹Ƶ apart.
I am a member of the Law Society Club, where I have heard from recent alums as they navigate their journey in law school. As a member of Law Society, I’ve had the opportunity to join moot court and mock trial teams. Law Society offers LSAT prep support for students and hosts recent alumni to speak to current students interested in exploring a future career in law. The connections I’ve made with professors have given me the courage to seek and apply for opportunities in the legal field. Over the summer after my sophomore year, I worked for the Children's Law Center through Occidental's InternLA program.
As a part of the InternLA cohort, I spent ten weeks living on campus, learning about and preparing to enter the field of law. Perhaps most importantly, this internship sparked a specific interest in working in children's law. InternLA allowed me to explore my interests while also getting paid and making career connections in Los Angeles. After my internship concluded, I continued my exploration through classes within my major (CTSJ) and minor (Philosophy).
The skills I’ve developed at Occidental—critical thinking, effective communication, and a broad understanding of various subjects and how they intertwine—are essential in the context of legal work. Plus, pre-law advising at 鶹Ƶ is top-notch, giving students the tools to navigate the law school application process with confidence. Pre-law advising is done through individual meetings with our official pre-law advisor, Marisol Leon, a civil rights attorney with the California Department of Justice. Her advice about honing in on what kind of law I want to pursue, as well as managing a busy schedule, has been invaluable. Pre-law advising also brings lawyers to campus to connect with students.
Over the past three years, I’ve stepped out of the courtroom-like atmosphere of my home and into a world of endless intellectual exploration. It's a place where I’ve grown, discovered new passions, and prepared myself for a career in law.