Despite Loyola’s small campus, its networking opportunities in Los Angeles are anything but. With one of the largest alumni communities in the city, Loyola offers students numerous chances to connect with legal professionals across various practices of law. 

My first networking experience was during Summer Institute, where we had Loyola alumni speak on their experiences, from law school to practice, followed by a dinner that allowed us to connect. This was my first introduction to how networking can be both professional and personal. 

In one of these networking events, I met my mentor, a Business Attorney who graduated from Loyola in 2022. She has provided countless tips, including exams, networking, and general life advice. Through our conversations, I have realized our backgrounds are similar in more than one way, and it is a reminder that I, too, one day will be in her position as a first-generation female attorney. 

Additionally, I was introduced to the Partner I work for through an email, which led to a job offer at a law firm where 75% of the attorneys are Loyola alumni. Through these opportunities, it has become clear that Loyola’s alumni actively support students.

In our classes, we often have guest speakers who share their experiences and challenges they faced when starting their careers.  A common message they all share is that, despite how successful they seem now, everyone was once a law student who did not know where they would end up. It is always reassuring to hear this, as it is a reminder that uncertainty is part of the growth process and that we’re not alone, there’s a network of Loyola alumni willing to help. 

Suddenly, sunny March has arrived while finals are just around the corner, and our graduation is just a few weeks away as we navigate lectures, papers, and assignments. I can’t believe I am about to complete this phase—one that once seemed so distant. Soon, this will become another achievement that will resonate forever in my mind after a huge investment of time and effort.

Before finishing my program, I wanted to take a lecture focused on technology applied to an overregulated sector, such as the government. The complexity of these entities always adds extra layers of facts and variables, requiring a strategic balance to provide accurate smart-risk advice on complex decision-making processes.

Therefore, the National Security and Data Privacy lecture was a good fit. Since I already have practical experience in both the private and public sectors, this was a great opportunity to revisit familiar topics with fresh eyes, and engage with peers who share similar interests in technology. 

Since tech history is being written as we speak, I have been enjoying every minute of the lecture. The professor, a former compliance head from a well-known Big Tech in the U.S., is highly knowledgeable in management and strategy with a notorious specialization in cybersecurity, making each session intellectually stimulating. Likewise, the class is full of tech-oriented professionals and students, many of whom are currently working in the public sector, while others are tech-savvy. Their perspectives and insights consistently enrich our discussions (I am glad to be able to share my local and global perspectives).

Throughout the course, we have explored tech-policy, AI, data privacy, drones, deepfakes, cyberattacks, and the ethics of technology, among others. Something that deeply attracted my attention was the Deep Seek AI solution, which besides distillation and the media hype, it’s important to deep dive and identify the cutting edge enhancements based in Open source and efficiency. As well, the Stargate project, announced in January 2025, is a project that is noteworthy, since their main goal is to strengthen the AI infrastructure.

Reflecting on these ideas, I’ve chosen to write my final evaluation paper on Open Source and Efficient Data Usage. I truly believe that having an efficient usage of data will allow us to design innovations that could help us tackle problems that have been there for a long time—I can’t wait to finish it—hopefully turning it into an academic publication soon. March is such an inspiring time.

Julio Zerecero

Legal writing is a fundamental part of the 1L experience, providing students with essential skills in research, analysis, and advocacy. At Loyola Law School, the Legal Writing course is a mandatory part of the curriculum, designed to prepare students for the realities of legal practice. Throughout the year, students engage in rigorous writing assignments, learning how to craft legal arguments with clarity and precision under the guidance of experienced writing professors.

During the first semester, students focus on predictive legal writing, developing objective memos that analyze legal issues. This phase helps them understand how to structure their analysis, apply case law, and communicate effectively in a legal setting. The transition into the second semester marks a shift toward persuasive writing, where students are assigned to represent either the plaintiff or the defense in a case. Dividing the class into opposing sides allows students to explore both perspectives of a legal argument, challenging them to think critically and anticipate counterarguments.

One of the most significant assignments in the second semester is drafting a legal brief. Students must research relevant legal principles, construct persuasive arguments, and refine their writing to meet professional standards. Professors provide detailed feedback throughout the process, emphasizing the importance of strong legal reasoning, clear organization, and effective advocacy. This stage of the course not only strengthens students’ writing skills but also prepares them for the final component of the class—oral arguments.

As the culmination of the Legal Writing course, students participate in oral arguments, presenting their case before a judge. This experience mirrors real-world legal advocacy, requiring students to think quickly, respond to tough questions, and defend their position with confidence. Standing before a judge and arguing a case is a pivotal moment in the first year of law school, reinforcing the importance of preparation, clarity, and professionalism.

Once oral arguments conclude, students celebrate the completion of their 1L Legal Writing course with a reception recognizing their hard work and progress. This final event marks the end of a challenging but rewarding journey, highlighting the growth that each student has achieved over the year. Mastering legal writing is a critical step in becoming an effective attorney, and the skills gained in this course provide a strong foundation for future academic and professional success. For many students, this class is one of the most transformative aspects of law school, equipping them with the tools they will use throughout their legal careers.

Since starting law school in August, two things have remained constant each week: I fight a losing battle against Los Angeles traffic almost daily, and I get at least one email from LLS about a networking event, career panel, or job opportunity.

I’ll admit, I tended to overlook emails that didn’t specifically mention public interest opportunities. Around the time on-campus interviews (OCI) began, I started feeling worried about the idea of applying to jobs just for the sake of it—without a real connection to my passion for serving underserved communities. That’s when the Career Development Office announced Loyola’s participation in the SoCal Public Interest/Public Sector Career Day (PICD)—perfect timing.

Scrolling through the list of employers attending PICD gave me the same thrill I felt at my first high school club fair, when I collected as many flyers and handouts as I could from clubs dedicated to helping others. Though I was excited about the opportunity to work with any of these employers, I applied to four non-profits that had either a primary or secondary focus on improving educational equity for students with disabilities in California. I was fortunate to receive interview invitations from two of my top-choice organizations.

After I accepted both invitations, the Career Development Office helped make the whole process feel way less intimidating by connecting me with my advisor, who I scheduled an interview prep meeting with soon after. My advisor created a space where I felt safe asking all sorts of “dumb” questions—though she kindly assured me no such thing existed. After our meeting, she followed up with thoughtful resources specific to the organizations I was interviewing with, which helped me feel more prepared—and only a normal amount of panicked.

Our collaboration paid off when I was offered—and happily accepted—a position as a Summer Advocate with the Lanterman Special Education Legal Clinic. Now, there’s a new constant in my week: picturing the work I’ll get to do and everything I’ll learn in the role.

Throughout my professional and academic journey, I have had the privilege of being part of institutions and companies that align with my purpose at different stages of my life.  These places opened their doors, giving me space to grow, sharpen my skills, and push toward my goals.  They reinforce that deep sense of purpose and achievement, which is something that I value.

Before each chapter begins, there’s always a moment of reflection—analyzing options, weighing numbers, to make the best decision, informed and backed with hard data.  Once I take the leap, it feels like sailing through unpredictable waters.  Some days, the current is smooth; other days, it’s like surfing big waves, especially when you have to move to another country.  But no matter the conditions, reaching the other side—gaining experience, learning something new—always makes the journey worth it.

A few months ago, while preparing my Loyola Law School application, I visited the universities where I studied to handle paperwork and obtain certifications.  Walking through classrooms, gardens, cafeterias—even the parking lots—felt like stepping back in time.  Memories hit me all at once: laughter, stories with friends, professors who shaped my path.  Somehow, I tried to recall the stress of finals, but I couldn’t (the pressure is long gone).  What remains are the people and the moments that made it all meaningful.

While organizing my application materials, I wrote my personal statement—explaining why I wanted to study at Loyola.  The process made me pause and deeply think about my journey.  As I looked back at my story, I felt a wave of nostalgia, happiness, and gratitude.  That moment of reflection also brought clarity.  Beyond envisioning goals and career paths, I realized that what truly carries me through is human connection—breakfasts before class, laughs before exams, and connections that last.

When I was searching for law schools in California, I think I was quietly looking for a sense of community—even if I didn’t realize it at the time.  Academic excellence was important, of course, but I was looking for more than just a strong program.  I wanted to find a place where people genuinely care about their students.

During my LLM search, I spoke with several schools, but Loyola stood out.  Professor Ghirardelli, the Faculty Director of the LLM program, surprised me by taking the time to meet with me on a video call.  We talked about my goals, my expectations, and even my concerns.  That kind of openness made all the difference.  Even now, I continue to receive support and guidance that helps me stay on track.

Once at Loyola, I found exactly what I was looking for.  The professors go beyond textbooks, leading by example and bringing the law to life—whether it’s breaking down Civil Procedure, debating Professional Ethics and Moral Character, or making contracts legal framework click.  But what truly makes Loyola special is the community.  The school attracts individuals who share common values, and while there’s a natural drive to succeed, there’s also a strong sense of camaraderie. We support one another, share resources, and work together to push forward.  I don’t just study here; I genuinely feel a sense of belonging, and I’m proud to be a Loyola Law student.

During my time here, I’ve served as Secretary of the Board and former Vice President of the Foreign Trained Attorneys and International Students Association, organizing events and panels that connect us with the Los Angeles legal community.  This experience has introduced me to incredible people and expanded my network.

Outside of campus, I was appointed Vice-Chair of the High Tech and Software Patent Committee at the American Bar Association, where I’ll begin collaborating on exciting projects coming soon.  These opportunities don’t come by chance, they’re the result of showing up, putting yourself out there, and making the most of what’s available.

Loyola Law School has provided everything I need to grow: the resources, the connections, and the engaged community.  It’s all here, and it’s up to me to step in and make it happen.  I am eager for the opportunities ahead to further develop myself, broaden my expertise, and contribute to meaningful projects in the legal and technology field.