Listening and advocating

Casey Soto is this year’s Student Bar Association president

While studying history at Harvard University, Casey Soto found herself drawn to social justice initiatives like the Civil Rights movement. This education along with her experience as an immigration legal assistant motivated the native of White Pigeon, Michigan, to enroll in law school to “help build a more equitable legal system.” As last year’s First Generation Law Students president, Soto had the opportunity to listen and learn from her fellow law students and is ready to advocate for the student body as the Student Bar Association (SBA) president.

What inspired you to attend law school?

I have served clients in their asylum cases, DACA renewals, and refugee adjustments of status, and have ensured that youth are able to receive Special Immigrant Juvenile Status. These experiences motivated me to attend law school because I wanted to become an advocate who not only understands the law but also recognizes and uplifts the people affected by it.

Have any of your classes been particularly influential? 

One class that deeply influenced me was Law and Poverty taught by Professor Chablani. Discussing the ways in which the legal system can perpetuate poverty not only deepened my understanding of structural injustice but reaffirmed my decision to pursue law in the first place: to challenge institutional inequality and promote a more just legal system.

What SBA programming are you most excited about this year? 

I’m really excited to continue our Wellness Wednesdays by expanding them throughout the week to offer more opportunities for all students to join. We’ll be headed to the Lincoln Park Zoo and the Museum of Contemporary Art since it’s next door. Of course, it would be remiss of me not to ask Sullivan the Therapy Dog to visit us too!

What advice would you give to a first-year law student? 
 
First, you belong here! I know that imposter syndrome is super common especially as a 1L, I still struggle with it sometimes, but remember that struggling with a class, feeling confused, or even getting a disappointing grade doesn’t mean you’re incapable of being an excellent lawyer.
 
Second, take breaks and touch grass (literally). Many museums offer free admission with your Loyola ID, and there are plenty of other great ways to step away from the library, take a break, and enjoy the city.
 
Third, connect with your classmates and your professors. Loyola Law has a wonderfully collaborative community, and the upperclassmen are always there to help out where they can, whether it’s through study tips or insight into different courses or even how they found their job. I’m confident that you’ll find the answers!