Piecing Together My Path: A Journey Through Law, Adventure, and Personal Growth

Building my path, while advocating for others.

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.

TOPICS: 1L, Student Life