Julie Ramos, third-year student at South Texas College of Law Houston, is the 2024-25 president of the Hispanic Law Students Association (HLSA). She will earn her JD degree in May 2025.
Ramos graduated from John B. Alexander High School in Laredo and earned her bachelor’s degree in microbiology and immunology from the University of Texas at San Antonio.
“Being from Laredo and a first-generation law student, HLSA has made South Texas Law feel like home,” Ramos said. “HLSA has been the foundation of my law school experience, offering a community of students who understand my background and challenges. This support system has been crucial in helping me navigate law school, both academically and personally, allowing me to form solid and lasting relationships with peers and mentors alike.”
Ramos noted that many students don’t have strong legal connections when they start law school. Through student organizations like HLSA, “we bridge that gap by bringing in attorneys, judges, and leaders from the Hispanic legal community to interact with our members.”
HLSA hosts professional and social events where students can meet mentors and gain the professional skills needed to thrive in law, including the annual Hispanic Heritage Month event, networking gatherings, and workshops. This year, Ramos aims to continue fostering connections to ensure every member feels supported and empowered to achieve their legal career goals.
Ramos values Hispanic Heritage Month because it highlights the Hispanic community’s rich cultural history and contributions. As a first-generation Mexican-American law student, she finds this recognition empowering. “It’s a time of the year to celebrate how far we’ve come while acknowledging the work to ensure equal representation and opportunities in all sectors, especially in law,” she said.
In addition to HLSA, Ramos is serving her second term as treasurer of the Democratic Law Student Association and is a pupil in The Garland R. Walker American Inn of Court. She also is a member of the Lawtina Network, Phi Delta Phi Wood Inn, and the Health Law Society. In addition, she is currently studying and doing pro bono legal work through South Texas Law’s Probate Clinic, where she has the opportunity to assist Spanish-speaking clients.
Ramos appreciates the connections that form between different student organizations. HLSA recently hosted a Real Talk student panel in collaboration with the Black Law Students Association, the Asian Pacific American Law Students Association, and the South Asian Law Students Association. “It was eye-opening to see how much we all share in common regarding our experiences and struggles,” Ramos said. “The mutual support between us is what makes South Texas Law such a unique, welcoming environment. This sense of community across organizations truly sets the school apart.”
In addition to the connections with other students, Ramos values the guidance and mentorship she has received from South Texas Law faculty and from Hispanic professionals in the legal field. “Their support has been invaluable in boosting my confidence and encouraging me to take on leadership roles,” she said. “ Professors have guided me academically and become mentors, connecting me with opportunities that align with my interests and career goals. HLSA has provided a platform to interact with distinguished Hispanic leaders whose insights I greatly appreciate.”
Ramos completed a 2024 internship at Walters Gilbreath PLLC and currently is an intern at MD Anderson Cancer Center in the Institutional Compliance Department. She has enjoyed opportunities at South Texas Law to engage with practicing attorneys and judges, noting the various events were “priceless in fostering professional connections.” One example is the D.I.N.E. with a J.D. events hosted by the Career Resource Center and Alumni Engagement.
Each opportunity to make connections is important to Ramos. “I’m the first in my family to attend law school or any professional school,” she said. “It’s a challenging journey but incredibly rewarding, especially knowing that I’m setting a new precedent for my family. My 16-year-old sister will graduate high school soon and I might get to convince her to come to South Texas someday!”
Ramos was drawn to South Texas Law because of its diverse student body and the location in Houston, which is a hub for legal professionals. Also, she was confident South Texas Law had the resources to help guide her regarding her career beyond law school and was impressed with the diverse options and experiences the law school’s Randall O. Sorrels Legal Clinics offered.
“Going to law school has truly been the best decision I’ve ever made,” Ramos said. “It’s been an incredibly challenging journey, but those challenges have pushed me to grow in ways I never imagined. Every day, I discover new areas of the law that fascinate me, and the experiences I’ve had — whether in the classroom, during my externships, or through student organizations —have broadened my horizons and solidified my passion for this profession. If you’re looking for a place that will challenge you and offer a strong community, this is the place to be!”
Ramos has a vision for her future beyond her actual career. “I want to pave the way for more students like me by creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels supported and empowered to succeed. I will share the connections and lessons I’ve gained through HLSA and other organizations with future students so we can continue building a strong, united legal community.”
Original source can be found here.