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How can I turn my passion for policy into real impact in law or nonprofits? #Spring 25
As a Public Policy major and Spanish minor at USC, I’m especially drawn to work that uplifts communities through education, legal advocacy, and nonprofit programs. I’m eager to learn how others have navigated similar paths, whether through law school, policy work, or grassroots leadership, and what helped them stay grounded while creating meaningful change.
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Jerry’s Answer
First, so some research regarding your question. It's out there and the information is not difficult to find.
And you live in an excellent area with a multiplicity of community orientated volunteer programs. You would probably begin as a gofer, and work your way into more direct impact programs, having at first proven yourself.
And yes, there is law school, three years of hard labor with little monetary benefit should you decide to use your legal expertise for the benefit of society.
But then, only you can answer your questions and, over time, the questions may change.
And you live in an excellent area with a multiplicity of community orientated volunteer programs. You would probably begin as a gofer, and work your way into more direct impact programs, having at first proven yourself.
And yes, there is law school, three years of hard labor with little monetary benefit should you decide to use your legal expertise for the benefit of society.
But then, only you can answer your questions and, over time, the questions may change.
Updated
Zakia’s Answer
Hi Kristina, I love this question. In law school I participated in a juvenile justice clinic and provided direct representation of juveniles in court under the supervision of an attorney. As an attorney, I worked under a Department of Justice grant to help survivors of sexual assault in civil legal matters. I currently work in-house as a corporate attorney but I volunteer on a board for a non-profit organization that provides free legal services. My advice to you, please reach out to organizations you admire and ask how you can help. Research several organizations. You can help while you are in school or after school. I earned law school credit for my volunteer work. However, you don't have to be an attorney or attending law school. Your school has a variety of community service opportunities. You can also introduce new opportunities. Talk to a school volunteer director about creating new opportunities for credit. Find out from the social organizations what type of help is needed. Keep up the great work. This world needs wonderful people like you.