While I'm still a student at UW law, I've always enjoyed teaching others what I know. The opportunity to impart my knowledge to others and see it lead to success is a great motivator. I've had many jobs in my life, but I'm finally certain that I know what I want to do.

My motivation for pursuing a legal career stems from a story I once heard about a hard-working engineer and his experiences at a large corporation. Specifically, the story focuses on his desk. He worked in a cramped office with other engineers, pouring over plans and specifications on an old, shaky, dented, metal work desk. The liability that came with the job meant he found himself at times in various lawyers' offices. He recalled the stark differences between workspaces, exemplified by a rich mahogany desk, polished and intricately carved.

Inspiration can come from the most unexpected sources, and this became mine. Not for the creature comforts that luxury items provide, but the vastly different perceptions of meaning and import between the two desks. I discovered that, although I had enrolled in the UW's Construction Management program, I would always feel like I settled for less if I didn't strive for that greater goal. Not the shabby surplus desk where cost estimates are made for contractors, but the powerful and dignified desk where documents are drafted and signed which make positive change in the world.

Throughout my professional and scholastic experiences I've always strived to work towards that positive change through service and leadership. That drive is what inspired me, after earning my AA degree, to become a corrections deputy with the Snohomish County Sheriff's Office. The opportunity to provide public service and influence inmates towards better, more enriching lives seemed ideal. During that time I learned much about the criminal justice system and had direct exposure to the effects it can have on individuals and families. I sought every opportunity to improve and enrich the operation of the facility and the lives of those within.

I am interested in becoming an attorney in order to extend my influence into the legal field. I crave the challenge that legal study demands and the satisfaction of providing guidance to those in need. I am driven to succeed in any specialty that may present itself. I believe my law enforcement experience, my construction management experience, and my passion for providing solutions to complex problems will allow me to succeed and flourish in both the study of law and in tutoring others. I am committed to realize my goals of earning the degree, the job, and finally, the desk.