First-Generation Student Utilizes Law School Connections to Obtain 711 License and Hands-On Experience in Legal Field
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Sierra Osowski, a first-generation law student, has always carried a sense of responsibility to leave her mark on the world. After an experience with a family lawsuit, her eyes were opened to the profound influence that the law can have on an individual’s life. It was then that she realized law would be her way to leave the world in a better place than how she found it.
When the time came to choose a law school, UIC Law stood out as the perfect choice for Sierra. As Chicago’s only public law school, UIC Law offered not only an accessible and affordable legal education, but also the chance to be part of a community where she could thrive as a first-generation student.
Sierra became an active member of the UIC Law First-Generation Law Students Association. Through the association’s mentor program, she was matched with recent alum Alyssa Hurt (J.D. ‘24). Knowing that Sierra was searching for a summer position, Alyssa recommended her to the Chicago Legal Clinic where she was leaving her position. This led Sierra to an invaluable experience as a Criminal Records Intern.
Sierra described her internship experience as “transformative.” Her daily responsibilities ranged from researching clients’ backgrounds and filing paperwork with the court, to attending court sessions and representing clients in front of judges. The Chicago Legal Clinic also sponsored her to obtain her 711 license, which allowed her to argue in court and resulted in her winning all the arguments she presented.
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(My mentor) and I are still in contact today. She has been instrumental in helping me navigate my law school career, and I am incredibly grateful for that.
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Adding to her hands-on experience in the legal industry, Sierra undertook an independent study where she researched how knockoffs are ruining the fashion industry and their implications on trademark infringement. Her 30-page research paper was then selected to be published by the Women’s Bar Association of Illinois, which she states is a major achievement in her law school career.
Now serving as the President of the First-Generation Student Association, Sierra is committed to fostering a supportive environment for other first-generation law students. She understands the challenges that come with being a first-gen student in law school and is working to ensure that others feel welcome and supported in their journey. As Sierra continues her legal studies, she remains driven by the same goal that led her to pursue law: to make a meaningful impact on the world.