Photo of Kanani Palafox

Kanani Palafox

Class of 2023

Law and Policy, 2017, University of Washington, Seattle

What led to you pursue a law degree?

I always knew that I wanted to be a lawyer. However, a pinpoint moment in my life was interning at the Pierce County Public Defender's office as an undergraduate intern. I had the opportunity to sit with defendants in the county jail and through that experience, I found that compassion does in fact have a place in the criminal justice system — a system that was not set up to humanize alleged criminals.

The attorneys, investigators, and support staff at the office helped me see the value of advocating for the human experience in some of the worst moments of people's lives. I knew that I wanted to be a voice for people that were struggling to navigate complex systems.

What have you found most valuable during your law school education?

I have found that the Seattle U community (alumni and current students alike) have been the most valuable part of my legal education. Law school and the legal profession is an incredibly challenging sphere to navigate alone. Knowing that there is a community of great humans to support me when I am struggling, as well as celebrate wins together, is beyond what I imagined coming into law school. The Seattle U community has shown me that the makeup of this legal profession has many fierce advocates of justice. It is comforting to know that I am never alone in both struggles and celebrations.

What do you do outside of law school? What do you love about Seattle?

As a part-time student, l also balance a full-time job outside of the classroom. I currently work as a legal assistant for the Pierce County Prosecuting Attorney’s office. It is often challenging to prioritize “life” outside of both. However, being available for family and friends has been a breath of fresh air because life still happens outside of the classroom. I love grabbing a bite to eat with family and friends and sitting by the waterfront to watch the sunset. Washington is truly a beautiful place to be!

What advice would you offer a prospective law student?

Law school is tough and takes a lot of work. It makes you question the world around you and your own personal world. However, the community you get to be a part of is full of knowledgeable individuals that strive to be compassionate and courageous advocates of justice. For most of us, the journey to law school is not easy but If I can get here, you can too.