Alumni Profiles

What did you do before law school, and what led you to pursue a law degree?

Prior to law school, I served in the U.S. Navy on active duty for four years and for four years in the reserves. While in the reserves I completed my undergraduate degrees at the University of Washington in sociology and political science. After graduation I worked as a rehabilitative counselor with the State of Washington and as a youth crisis counselor.

As a child I desired to be an attorney and a judge. I knew from an early age that I needed a law degree to accomplish my goals. I wanted to be Claire from the Cosby Show. But even more importantly I wanted to have the tools I needed to make a difference in my community.

What law school experiences helped you in establishing your career?

I enjoyed working as an intern with the Department of Assigned Counsel and my favorite class was Criminal Law with Professor Boerner. As a rule 9, I covered the in-custody calendar as a public defender in District Court. I went on to work as the Calendar Attorney in Superior Court at what was then the largest firm in Port Orchard, Wash. After a couple of years I opened my own firm.

What advice would you give to prospective or current students?

Your time is law school is temporary; it’s a season that will end after a short time and a means to an end. Remember everything happens for a reason. "If you can't fly then run, if you can't run then walk, if you can't walk then crawl, but whatever you do you have to keep moving forward." — Martin Luther King Jr.