Meralina Morales
Class of 2024
University of California, Berkeley
What led you to pursue a law degree and why did you choose Seattle U?
I became interested in pursuing a law degree after I saw (then) California Attorney General Kamala Harris stop a crude oil pipeline from getting built in my hometown of Pittsburg, California, which was already heavily impacted by polluting industries. I came to law school with the intention of fighting for environmental justice. I chose Seattle U because of its social justice mission.
What have you found especially valuable during your legal education?
The most valuable thing during my legal education has been the community I have made, mostly through student organizations. It has helped not just academically, but emotionally as well. Law school is hard, and people who haven’t experienced it have trouble understanding, especially since I'm the first person in my family to go to any type of higher education institution.
What do you do outside of law school? What do you love about Seattle?
Outside of school I like to try different restaurants because there are so many different cultures in Seattle. I also love visiting all the national and state parks around Washington. I love the spring flowers in Seattle and all the summer events.
What advice would you offer a prospective law student?
Rest before law school, you’ll be thankful! Also, find a core group of friends! They will make such a difference.