As a law student, one of the best parts of my experience at Loyola Law School has been the incredible faculty.  It’s not just that they know their stuff—they genuinely love what they teach, and that passion makes all the difference.  The professors here don’t just lecture from textbooks; they bring their real-world experiences, enthusiasm, and commitment to helping us become the best lawyers we can be.

What’s especially amazing about Loyola’s professors is how invested they are in our success.  One professor who truly stands out is Judge Lawrence Riff, who taught my Trial Advocacy class.  From day one, it was clear that Judge Riff wasn’t just focused on teaching us trial techniques; he was passionate about helping us become strong, effective advocates.  His energy for trial law was infectious.  It wasn’t just about learning how to cross-examine a witness or craft an opening statement—it was about owning the courtroom, standing up for your client, and believing in your argument.

Judge Riff’s class made me think differently about my future as a lawyer.  He didn’t just teach us the “how” of trial work—he showed us the “why.”  His belief in the power of a passionate advocate pushed me to pursue trial work, where I now aspire to make a real impact in the courtroom, just like he did as a civil defense trial attorney.

One piece of advice from Judge Riff that really stuck with me was: “Take any case you can to trial.  When no one else wants to try the dog of a case because it’s a loser, raise your hand.  And then give it a go.  You just never know what will happen in trial in the hands of an impassioned trial lawyer.”  This advice helped me realize that it’s not just the technical skills that matter—it’s the mindset.  Confidence, determination, and a willingness to take risks can make all the difference, even when the odds are against you.

Thanks to Judge Riff and the passionate faculty at Loyola, I don’t just feel prepared to practice law—I feel inspired.  They’ve shown me what it means to be more than just a law student; they’ve shown me what it means to be a lawyer with purpose.  And for that, I’m incredibly grateful.  Their passion is truly transformative.

Pursuing new goals begins with introspection—a deep search for meaning. What draws us to certain paths? Where might they lead? Choosing to further one’s education, regardless of its complexity, is always a victory—a reflection of self-care, fueled by love, effort, sacrifice, and the unwavering drive to grow.

In the pursuit of a Master of Laws, the goal was clear: more than just legal education, a community was sought—one that mirrored personal values, and motivated progress. Loyola has provided just that. It is a place where remarkable individuals—passionate, collaborative, and dedicated to growth—come together, committed to the profession and to one another.

The professors stand out not only for their expertise but for their authenticity. Beyond lectures, they invest in student success—not merely through words, but with genuine action. Their commitment to the profession, and their willingness to engage in discussions and offer support, make their guidance invaluable. The staff also plays a vital role, always ready to help students throughout the journey. Their contributions are integral to success, and their impact is deeply appreciated.

In my opinion, what stands out most about Loyola is the exchange of ideas. Classmates, with their diverse visions, careers, and stories, don’t simply complement one another; they expand perspectives.
This shared experience fuels an integral instruction, constantly reinforcing a sense of purpose. The connections made and the sense of belonging are gifts that resonate deeply.

Earning a law degree here requires more than just hard work; it demands dedication, responsibility, and the confidence to seize new opportunities. I am certain that these experiences will ultimately make all the difference. With each passing day, my sense of accomplishment in being part of this institution continues to grow.

Law school is demanding, but it’s also an experience shaped by the effort you put in, the connections you make, and the way you share your journey. As I navigate my legal education, I’ve come to appreciate not just the academic rigor, but the unique qualities that make Loyola stand out.

What I appreciate most about my time at Loyola Law School is the strong sense of community and support that sets it apart. Law school can be competitive, but at Loyola, I’ve found an environment where students genuinely uplift each other, sharing resources, forming study groups, and celebrating each other’s successes. The faculty adds to this by being more than just professors; they are mentors who take the time to know their students and guide them beyond the classroom.

What makes Loyola unique is its emphasis on practical experience. Through clinics, externships, and fellowships students gain hands-on legal training early on. The school’s strong ties to the legal community in Los Angeles also create incredible opportunities to learn and grow outside of campus.

Diversity is another defining aspect of Loyola. The wide range of backgrounds and perspectives enriches classroom discussions and prepares students for the realities of legal practice. It is an environment that nurtures both intellectual and personal development.

Ultimately, Loyola offers more than just a legal education. It cultivates a supportive community, meaningful mentorship, and real-world training that shape not only skilled attorneys but well-rounded professionals.

Attending Loyola Law School has been one of the best decisions I’ve made.  It’s not just the top-notch academics or the challenging coursework that make Loyola stand out—it’s the sense of community, the incredible alumni network, and the doors it has opened for me.

One of the biggest perks of Loyola is its location in the heart of Los Angeles.  LA is a city full of legal opportunities, and being in the middle of it all gives Loyola law students a distinct edge when it comes to internships, externships, and job opportunities.  Whether you’re interested in corporate law, entertainment, or public interest, Loyola’s location makes it all possible—and it’s one of the main reasons I chose to study here.

But beyond the location, what really makes Loyola special is the people.  The alumni network is one of the most supportive and tight-knit communities I’ve encountered.  From the moment I started at Loyola, I could tell how much pride alumni take in their school—and how eager they are to help each other succeed.

For me, this support started even before I was accepted.  While I worked as a paralegal, the partners at my firm, almost all Loyola alumni, encouraged me to apply to the school.  They were all extremely supportive throughout my LSAT prep and the application process.  It was a game-changer for me and played a huge role in my decision to attend Loyola.

Once I was admitted, that same sense of support from alumni kept showing up.  While working and externing at the Court of Appeal, a California Appellate Justice who graduated from Loyola took it upon herself to mentor me, preparing me to one day become an excellent trial advocate.  Another Loyola alum, now a partner at a trial firm, hired me for a post-bar clerkship and offered me a spot as an associate once I pass the bar.  The fact that these alumni were so willing to open doors for me speaks volumes about the strong, lasting connections within the Loyola community.  It’s not just about earning a degree—Loyola is about building relationships that last long after graduation.

Loyola is so much more than just a law school—it’s a family.  A family that has your back, offers guidance, and helps you get where you want to go.  I’m beyond grateful for everything Loyola has given me, and I can’t wait to pay it forward to the next generation of students.

My name is Julio Zerecero. I’m an international attorney specializing in business and technology law, born and raised in the vibrant heart of Mexico City. It’s where I earned my license and developed a passion for travel—a habit I’ve intertwined with my career. Over the years, I’ve wandered the globe, diving into the worlds of business and technology while soaking in the richness of different cultures, landscapes, and, most importantly, connecting with amazing people. It’s a pursuit I plan to carry through my life. Right now, that journey has brought me to Los Angeles, where I’m pursuing my LLM and exploring the city’s vibrant culture.

      After a demanding semester adapting to life at Loyola Law School, winter break arrived like a deep breath after a long dive. I took the chance to recharge—exploring the beaches of South Bay, training at a local martial arts dojo near the apartment, and soaking in the calm, friendly vibe of the area. It felt good to slow down and just exist for a while.

      I also returned to my hometown, Mexico City. Reconnecting with family and friends was grounding, especially while revisiting my favorite spots—the Independence Angel in the city’s heart, the bustling streets that pulse with life, and, of course, the food. God, the food. There’s nothing quite like it. I even squeezed in a quick trip to Acapulco, a legendary beach destination from the old days. My family and I headed to Punta Diamante, where we devoured fresh seafood, watched stunning sunsets, and relished the warm energy of Mexico. The crowd was international—tourists from the U.S. and Europe—and it felt similar to the diverse energy of the LLM program at Loyola.

      Soon enough, it was time to head back. I caught a Friday afternoon flight with a bit of turbulence that added some spice to the journey. Touching down in Los Angeles, I was greeted by local friends who whisked me off for pizza—a nice welcome back. Now, I feel recharged, ready to tackle the new semester, strive for success, savor the experience, and walk across that stage in the spring graduation. Life, as always, is an adventure.

Law school is notorious for its rigor, and exam seasons can feel like an uphill battle. But one of the most important tools at your disposal isn’t a casebook or flashcards—it’s your peers.

Study groups are a favorite among many students. They offer opportunities to break down complex legal concepts, quiz each other on the nuances of the Model Penal Code, or even brainstorm creative arguments for mock cases. These collaborative sessions deepen your understanding of the material and give you a sense of camaraderie during the often isolated grind of studying.

Beyond academics, your peers provide an invaluable support system. Whether it’s offering advice, providing moral support through tough moments, or celebrating the little wins, your classmates can quickly become a second family in law school.

Leaning on my peers has made all the difference. I’ve found study groups to be invaluable, not just for reviewing material, but for building connections with classmates who are in the same boat. I’ve been lucky enough to be part of a few, and they’ve turned into both academic and emotional lifelines.

Showing up to events, whether it’s a casual study session or a school gathering, has also been crucial. I’ve built relationships with people who not only help me understand difficult concepts but also offer support during the toughest moments. My classmates have become my go-to source of motivation and encouragement, and they’ve become such a crucial part of my law school experience through the highs and lows.

If you haven’t already, I’d recommend taking the time to invest in those connections. The relationships you build now could be what helps you not only survive but truly thrive in law school.

My name is Julio Zerecero, an LL.M. student at Loyola. What I like to think about myself is that I live to learn—about new things, new places, new ideas. Whether traveling or diving into a new challenge, I’m always chasing the next story, the next experience.

I have a deep fascination with history; it’s the backbone of everything around us, the answer to the “whys” in life. Art keeps me grounded, especially surrealism and syncretism—where the unconscious mind and the integration of eclectic symbols create a deeply materialized concept of the perception of reality. I also love music—Zoe, Interpol, Camilo Séptimo, Depeche Mode, and experimental music, as they are part of my everyday meditation.

Before coming to Loyola, and throughout my more than a decade in the technology and law field, I worked at a well-known tech company, designing legal strategies to help governments in the region adopt cutting-edge technologies—from AI to any cloud-based solutions. It was an incredibly dynamic and thought-provoking role.

Along the way, I took some detours. One led me to Mount Aconcagua in Argentina, the highest peak in the Americas and one of the Seven Summits, alongside Everest. I set out to reach the summit, but the mountain had other plans. Still, the lessons from that climb were invaluable, and I’ll be back someday. Another stop was Barcelona, where, after wrapping up business, I visited the temple La Sagrada Familia. Antonio Gaudí’s masterpiece wasn’t just about architecture; it was genius. He left behind blueprints for a structure so ambitious that it’s still under construction nearly a century after his death. If all goes well, it will be finished by 2026. Walking through that space, your senses go into overdrive. It’s more than a temple—it’s an experience, definitely a place to be.

Back in Mexico City, I was training for a national Jiu-Jitsu championship. Under the guidance of Okami with Sensei Arturo, Jorge and my peers, I fought my way to second place. Not bad, but there’s always room for more. At the same time, I was wrapping up my plan to move to L.A. and finally pursue my LL.M.—a goal I had put off for too long due to work, life, and the usual responsibilities. Last summer, I finally made it happen, and I am seriously committed to sitting for the bar next July.

Loyola has been a ride—pushing past my comfort zone, burning through books, building a new routine, and embracing every second of the experience. Los Angeles is a huge, beautiful city, with some similarities to mine, but at the same time, full of new experiences and information to absorb. It’s not just about law; it’s about the people, the stories, the grind.

As for the future? I plan to stay in the legal profession for a long time. Like many other human-centric fields, this profession opens opportunities to help society, advocate for those who need it, and guide (legally speaking) individuals trying to innovate and make a better world. The passion to dig deep into the root causes of solutions that will make us better as a society—or solve problems that shouldn’t exist—drives me.

In the long run, I see myself lecturing in person or through digital tools. It’s something I’ve always been passionate about. My mother, “Maestra Paty,” was a professor in Mexico City, and somehow, that stuck with me. Over the years, I’ve realized that teaching isn’t just about sharing knowledge—it’s about constantly learning from those around you and keeping in mind that we always have something new to learn.

Wherever I go next, one thing is certain: the adventure isn’t slowing down anytime soon.
Julio Zerecero

I’m Lia Shirvanian, a first-generation law student and a proud graduate of UCLA with a degree in Psychology. My journey to law school wasn’t a straight line, but rather a puzzle—one where each experience shaped my decision to pursue a legal career. Before law school, I worked at an estate planning law firm, where I handled both legal and marketing tasks. I managed complex probate cases, communicated with clients during emotionally difficult times, and even navigated procedural challenges in court filings. This experience gave me a deep appreciation for legal problem-solving and the responsibility that comes with guiding clients through critical life decisions.

My legal interests have expanded since starting law school, and I’m particularly drawn to business and corporate law. As a Business Law Fellow at Loyola Law School, I’ve gained exposure to the corporate world, engaging in workshops that deepen my understanding of corporate law, negotiations, and business transactions.

Outside of law, I love spending my free time building puzzles and Legos, which give me the same sense of problem-solving and patience that I apply in my legal studies. I also enjoy baking sugar cookies and experimenting with different decorations. When time allows, I love going camping with my friends, escaping the noise of daily life, and enjoying the outdoors.

As for my bucket list, I have a few major goals I’d love to accomplish in the next few years. I want to visit Japan during cherry blossom season and experience the vibrant culture and breathtaking scenery. At some point in life, when time allows, I’d love to take a road trip across the U.S. with my family, exploring different states, national parks, and hidden gems along the way.

While these experiences are exciting, I also want to keep refining my legal research and advocacy skills because, much like a puzzle, every experience I gain brings me one step closer to completing the bigger picture of my career.