Makayla Gorman
3L; Admissions Ambassador
Hometown:
Riverside, CA
Professional Interests:
Family Law; Immigration Law; Public Interest
Student Organizations:
Women's Law Society President; If/When/How Lawyers for Reproductive Justice Rights 3L Representative; First Generation Professionals Member; Environmental Law Society Member
Clinic:
Domestic Violence; Immigrant & Racial Justice Solidarity; Reproductive Justice
Housing:
On Campus
Pro Bono:
Emergency Preparedness Clinic
Meet Makayla:
Navigating the law school application and selection process was especially challenging for me as a first-generation student. I initially chose UC Irvine Law because its generous scholarship made attending law school possible. At the time, I did not realize how closely UC Irvine Law would align with my goals, but it quickly became clear that it was the best school for me.
UC Irvine Law’s clinics and pro bono opportunities have provided me with invaluable hands-on experience. I am currently completing my fourth and final semester in the Domestic Violence Clinic, where I have assisted many individuals in the community with their domestic violence restraining orders, divorces, custody disagreements, and immigration matters.
The support from both faculty and classmates at UC Irvine Law has also been incredibly meaningful in shaping my experience. The start of 1L felt incredibly stressful to me because I always felt like I was behind my classmates. I found mentorship in professors and other students, who supported me and empowered my growth. I am deeply grateful for their guidance, and know that I am the professional I am today because of them. In fact, I secured my post-graduation position due largely to a professor’s recommendation. I have also formed friendships at UC Irvine Law that I believe will last a lifetime.
My involvement in student organizations has defined my law school experience as well. I served as Co-Chair of If/When/How, our Reproductive Justice Club at UC Irvine Law, during my 2L year and currently serve as President of the Women’s Law Society. In these roles, I have helped raise funds for charity, educated students, and fostered community. I am also passionate about and involved with our school’s First Generation Professionals club.
Simply put, I cannot imagine having attended any other law school, and I am passionate about helping prospective students find the right fit for their own journeys.