UTEP09 (2022-2023)

Dual Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Mexican American Studies
Minor in Criminal Justice
Overall GPA: 3.72-Cum Laude
Phi Kappa Phi Academic Honor Society

Associates of Arts in Criminal Justice
Overall GPA: 3.68-Honors
Phi Theta Kappa Academic Honor Society

Outstading Senior in the Mexican American Studies Department
Dean's List (2005-2009)

Student Government, Vice President (2006-2007)
Student Organizational Council, President (2006-2007)

High School Tutor/Mentor (2008-Present)
U.S. Navy (2001-2005)
U.S. Navy Honor Guard (2005-2006)
Operation Enduring Freedom & Operation Iraqi Freedom
Numerous Military Service Awards

Army National Guard (2006-2008)

Fluent in Spanish and Portuguese

CLEO Fellow 2010
Missouri School of Law

Like many others, I too became discouraged at the knowledge of my LSAT. I viewed the score as a measure of my intelligence--self doubt consumed me. I was under the impression that my probabilities of attending law school would be washed away unless, I scored higher on the LSAT. Then I came to the realization that a score would not define me--I had too much to offer. My GPA, personal statement, diversity statement, resume and letters of recommendation have catapulted me ahead of many others whose scores leave me in the dust. Do well!

April 13, 2010:
In today's extremely competitive world, I am grateful to have two incredible schools stand by me, and acknowledge my potential as a future law student, scholar, and advocate. After a careful deliberation, I came to the conclusion that the University of Tennessee (UT) would further my legal skills while enriching my growth as an empathetic attorney. I am certain KU has delivered the same amount of fervor to their past alumni, and would continue with the same dedication and compassion with their present and future advocates, but after visiting both schools, UT was home. I am officially a VOLUNTEER!

June 5, 2010:

In a surprising turn of events I was waitlisted at Northwestern and Houston. This is short of remarkable! I was also accepted into CLEO's six week summer institute. The program is designed to simulate the first year of law school.

For many schools an LSAT would be the most pressing matter for admissions. But after closely analyzing my situation and that of others who share similar characteristics, the LSAT has become part of the "entire package" as opposed to being the main criteria. This is not to say that the LSAT is not weighed heavily in the decision process, but in my particular situation the LSAT has been balanced with my other attributes.

I am grateful to have been admitted to three fine institutions (at this point) and waitlisted at several others. I am certain that upon my completion of the summer institute I will have the necessary tools to compete in any law school.

August 8, 2010:

I am still on the waitlist at both Houston and Northwestern. Over the course of the summer, Houston has been very generous in updating me about my situation. However, Northwestern has been very indifferent. Regardless of the outcome, I have been extremely fortunate to have a law school to attend. After all, that has always been my dream.