Gyselle Hennessey
2L; Admissions Ambassador
Hometown:
Amherst, MA
Professional Interests:
Criminal Law; Family Law; Juvenile Advocacy; Public Interest
Student Organizations:
OutLaw, National Lawyers Guild, Latinx Law Student Association
Clinic:
Community Violence Intervention
Housing:
On Campus
Pro Bono:
Esperanza Immigrant Rights Project, Limited Conservatorship Clinic & Estate Planning Clinic with Community Counsel, Victims of Crime Special Visas (U-Visa), Immigration Law Law (Alternative Spring Break), Witness for Justice: Immigration Court Observation for the Children's Docket in Santa Ana
Meet Gyselle:
Hi everyone! I'm a first generation law student hailing from the Northeast. Before deciding to come to law school, I was in the psychology field, doing research on youth mental health at Harvard University. The participants I worked with faced many legal challenges compounding their mental health struggles, which inspired me to move into the legal field to pursue more vigorous advocacy and support to those who needed it.
Irvine is the farthest I have ever been from home, but I chose to be here because I was drawn to the environment that UC Irvine offers. I could sense it from their online presence, but visiting during Admitted Students Weekend confirmed for me that this was the place I wanted to study law. It's not just the weather, the people are inspiring, kind, open, and intellectual. I am so glad I chose UC Irvine.
In between classes and studying, I take my cats out on walks, exercise, and explore the area with my friends. Please don't hesitate to reach out to me to ask about my experience before law school, applying to and choosing my school, and during my first year of law school. I'm happy to talk about all of the factors that have led me to where I am now. I look forward to helping others through this process!