Meet Monica Prieto, 2L, and learn more about her story at South Texas Law in this Student Spotlight by the Career Resource Center.
Why did you choose to attend South Texas College of Law Houston?
I wanted to stay close to my family in Houston, so I started researching the different law schools here. I liked that STCL Houston focused only on law. That was important to me because it makes a difference in how dedicated the school is to a student’s growth. All the professors, staff, and resources are for law students.
Where are you working this summer?
I am spending my 2L summer with Gordon Rees Scully Mansukhani in their Houston office. I was invited for an interview.
How did the Career Resource Center help you successfully navigate the recruitment process?
Marie, my career counselor, has gotten to know me and helped me learn the legal recruitment lingo and process. She has been an ear I can rely on to listen to all my stress rants. She reviewed my resume, cover letter, and all other recruitment documents. Everyone in the CRC office has been super supportive as I prepare for interviews by setting up mock interviews, sharing tips on interview decorum, and being an overall support system.
What are your career goals for the future?
I aspire to do meaningful work. I hope to reflect on all the research, writing, and efforts I put in and know I made a difference for someone. While I am not driven by the desire to change the whole world, I am passionate about making life better for at least one person.
What advice would you share with students going through recruitment?
Be kind to yourself. Impostor syndrome may creep in but remember you are exactly where you’re meant to be. Find the balance between your grades and job applications. Your grades are important in the legal filed, but it’s also crucial to set aside time to prepare your application materials. Make sure to do well in your classes, but don’t lose sight of the job search process, too!
Which professors most influenced you or your career path?
All my professors have been amazing since I started at South Texas Law. Specifically, Professors Moore and Breland have made a huge difference in my law school career. Prof. Moore is willing to advise any of her students on the best path for them. She helped me gain a lot of confidence in her Torts I and II classes, and I took that confidence into my other courses. Prof. Breland was one of the few professors who spent class time creating activities that applied Evidence in the real world. Her teaching style made me love a class that I did not think would affect me at all in the beginning of the semester. She is knowledgeable and gives real-life advice in and out of class.
What student organizations have you been involved with?
I serve as secretary for the Business Law Society and the Lawtina Network. My interest in business law began when I recognized how important business is in every aspect of law. As a Latina, only 5% of attorneys are Hispanic, which motivates me to be part of an organization that promotes our unity and growth in the legal field. Additionally, I am also part of CURRENTS, a journal at STCL Houston that focuses on international economic trade law. This experience allows me to enhance my research and writing skills while working with topics I am passionate about.
How has the South Texas Law community supported your growth?
The best parts of this law school are the alumni and the people on campus supporting students. I have made amazing connections with attorneys who are willing to meet and talk about career paths and law school tips and who provide a listening ear. STCL Houston alumni also are willing to connect you with other attorneys when they hear about opportunities or know someone in your desired field. If you haven’t already, I highly encourage you to connect with STCL Houston alumni soon!
What is something interesting about you we can’t learn from your resume?
My love for academia began with my parents, who never let me miss a day of school from kindergarten to senior year! No skipping! As for my love of academia, since 2019, I have read more than 100 books a year. My current record is in 2021, with 320 books read that year alone.
