Hobbies and interests
Coffee
Hiking And Backpacking
Soccer
Politics and Political Science
Disc Golf
Food And Eating
Reading
Academic
Biography
Law
Psychology
Science Fiction
I read books multiple times per month
Dayana Perez
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FinalistDayana Perez
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FinalistBio
I am a first-generation Latina, driven by adversity to champion justice and advocate for the marginalized. As a law student at Chase Law School, I'm dedicated to using my legal education to effect positive change in society. With a passion for equality and a commitment to advocacy, I strive to leave a lasting impact on the world.
Education
Northern Kentucky University
Doctoral degree program (PhD, MD, JD, etc.)Majors:
- Criminal Justice and Corrections, General
- Law
Lindsey Wilson College
Bachelor's degree programMajors:
- Criminal Justice and Corrections, General
Miscellaneous
Desired degree level:
Doctoral degree program (PhD, MD, JD, etc.)
Graduate schools of interest:
Transfer schools of interest:
Majors of interest:
Career
Dream career field:
Law Practice
Dream career goals:
Political Office
Financial Service Specialist
Truist2021 – 20221 yearPolice Officer
University of Kentucky2020 – 2020
Sports
Soccer
Varsity2016 – 20193 years
Research
Law
NKU Salmon P. Chase College of Law and Kenton County Court House — Student and Judicial Intern2022 – 2023
Public services
Volunteering
Northern Kentucky Law School — Volunteer2022 – 2024
Future Interests
Advocacy
Politics
Volunteering
Phillip Robinson Memorial Scholarship
Embarking on the path to practice law is more than just a career choice for me; it is a calling deeply rooted in my personal experiences and unwavering commitment to justice. Growing up as a first-generation Latina, I witnessed firsthand the injustices and disparities faced by marginalized communities. Early tragedy and displacement thrust me into a world of sorrow and uncertainty, igniting within me a fervent desire to advocate for those whose voices are often silenced by systemic inequities.
Through my journey, I have come to understand the transformative power of the law in effecting positive change and ensuring equitable access to justice. Pursuing higher education became my beacon of hope amidst adversity, empowering me to amplify the voices of the marginalized and champion the cause of justice and equality. Graduating from college underscored the profound impact of education within the Hispanic community, further fueling my passion for advocacy and social change.
My decision to pursue a legal education stems from a deep-seated belief in the power of the law to serve as a catalyst for societal transformation. I am drawn to the legal profession as a vehicle through which I can advocate for the underrepresented, challenge systemic injustices, and effect meaningful change in the lives of those in need. The law provides a framework for addressing complex societal issues and advancing the cause of justice on both individual and systemic levels.
Moreover, practicing law offers me the opportunity to utilize my unique perspective and experiences to make a tangible difference in the lives of others. As a first-generation Latina and a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I bring a diverse set of perspectives and insights to the legal profession. I am committed to leveraging my background to advocate for marginalized communities, promote diversity and inclusion within the legal profession, and foster a more just and equitable society.
Furthermore, the practice of law represents a continuation of my lifelong journey towards advocacy and social justice. It allows me to merge my passion for helping others with the intellectual challenge of navigating complex legal issues. By providing legal representation to those who cannot afford it, advocating for policy changes that address systemic inequalities, and working to reform the criminal justice system, I aim to make a meaningful and lasting impact in the lives of individuals and communities.
Ultimately, practicing law is not just a career path for me—it is a vocation rooted in my passion for advocacy, my commitment to social justice, and my desire to make a positive impact in the world. I am eager to embark on this journey, armed with the knowledge, skills, and unwavering dedication to effecting meaningful change through the practice of law.
Janean D. Watkins Aspiring Victim's Rights Advocate Scholarship
Amidst the vibrant cultural mosaic of Houston, Texas, I embarked on my journey as a first-generation Latina. However, my path was fraught with challenges from the outset. Early tragedy struck, snatching away the guiding light of both my parents and thrusting me into a world of sorrow and uncertainty. Forced to leave behind the familiarity of Houston, I found myself transplanted to rural Kentucky, where strict rules threatened to stifle my voice. Yet, from the depths of adversity emerged a resilient flame—a fervent desire to advocate for those marginalized by injustice.
My pivotal turn came with the decision to pursue higher education, a beacon of hope amidst darkness. Enrolling in college became my lifeline, empowering me to amplify the voices of the marginalized. Embracing my identity as a gay Hispanic woman, I immersed myself in various school organizations, igniting a passion for justice and equality. Graduating from college marked a triumph, showcasing the transformative power of education within the Hispanic community. Yet, as I stood on the brink of a new chapter, the world was engulfed in chaos by the Covid-19 pandemic. It was amidst this turmoil that my calling became clear: to serve as a voice for the underrepresented, championing justice and equality.
Thus, I embarked on a new chapter at Chase Law School, dedicated to the pursuit of justice. Engaging in pro bono initiatives, serving as a mock juror and mediator, I honed my legal skills, fueled by an unwavering commitment to advocacy. However, the financial burden of pursuing a legal education looms as a challenging obstacle. Without financial assistance, my dreams may remain out of reach. This scholarship represents not just an opportunity, but a lifeline—a chance to continue my journey, to fight for justice, and to make a tangible difference in the lives of those in need.
As a law clerk for Chief Circuit Court Judge Summe, I witnessed the complexities and inequities of the judicial system. Yet, within this darkness, I found hope—opportunities to effect positive change from within. Looking ahead, I am determined to leave behind a legacy of compassion, empathy, and unwavering dedication to the cause of justice. As the founder of the Latino Law Student Association, I strive to create a supportive environment for Hispanic law students, fostering a community where all feel seen, heard, and valued. My journey, marked by adversity and resilience, has prepared me to be a champion for justice, equality, and the inherent dignity of all people.
In conclusion, my journey—from first-generation Latina to college graduate to law student—has uniquely equipped me to make meaningful contributions to both the legal and scholastic communities. With the support of this scholarship, I am one step closer to turning my belief in a brighter, more equitable future into reality.
Skywalker Mission Education Scholarship
As a proud first-generation Latina, I reflect on the profound significance of embarking on a legal education journey against the backdrop of my personal experiences. Growing up as a trailblazer within my family and community, I have encountered and navigated through adversities that have instilled within me an unwavering commitment to championing justice. My identity as the first member of my family born in America, the inaugural college graduate, and the first openly gay individual has indelibly shaped my worldview and propelled me towards advocacy.
Early in life, tragedy and displacement introduced me to the harsh realities of injustice. Despite grappling with the loss of my parents and the unsettling experience of relocation, I was propelled by an impassioned desire to advocate for others facing similar challenges. Pursuing undergraduate studies in psychology and criminal justice at Lindsay-Wilson College provided me with a foundational understanding and skills necessary to effect meaningful change in the world.
However, I realized that to drive systemic change effectively, a deeper comprehension of the law was imperative. This realization impelled me to pursue admission to law school, where I found a home at NKU, Salmon P. Chase College of Law. Here, I've honed my advocacy skills and gained invaluable experience to navigate the intricacies of the legal system. My legal education has armed me with the tools to confront injustice, amplify the voices of marginalized communities, and catalyze positive societal transformation.
Being the sole Hispanic student in my class, I've encountered formidable barriers that have demanded resilience and tenacity. Yet, I've seized this position as an opportunity to magnify the voices of underrepresented communities, spearheading the establishment of the Latinx Law School Association to foster cultural awareness and representation within the legal profession. Through my active involvement in the Student Bar Association and various advocacy initiatives, I've remained steadfast at the forefront of driving change and nurturing diversity within the legal community.
In conclusion, the significance of a legal education is manifold. It empowers individuals to advocate for justice, fosters personal and professional growth, and unlocks diverse career pathways. For marginalized individuals like myself, it serves as a conduit to empowerment and a formidable tool for confronting systemic injustices. Ultimately, pursuing a legal education transcends the mere acquisition of knowledge; it represents a commitment to utilizing that knowledge to effectuate positive change in the world. This is just why I think a legal education is important, we need representation and my community needs people like me to advocate for them and educate them about their rights.