Ariel Ungerleider (JD/MBA 09)

Tell me something special or interesting about your background before you went to law school.

Growing up in Eugene, Oregon, I was a competitive gymnast for 10 years. Like many kids, my aspirations were to compete in the Olympics. After retiring from gymnastics, I played many sports and became a huge college sports fan. I was a cheerleader in high school and then became a cheerleader at the University of Oregon. GO DUCKS! As a Pac-10 cheerleader, I was able to travel all over the U.S. and be an ambassador for the University of Oregon. I was even able to go to Japan to film a television commercial. After cheerleading, I did a study abroad program in Paderno del Grappa, Italy, with a focus in international business. Studying in Italy was the most amazing experience and I would love to live in Italy again someday.

Why did you decide to go to law school?

I started drafting contracts around the age of 10. I would negotiate with my dad so that if I did my homework or received good grades, he would let me drive his car, or go to the movies with friends. Although I never realized the elements of offer, acceptance and consideration had to be met, I always knew that a written contract was more enforceable than an oral contract. Then after college, I worked at the Golf Network where I did a lot of contract editing and drafting. Law school just seemed like a natural fit for me. I am pursuing a joint JD/MBA and see both degrees and instrumental tools in building a successful career.

Tell me something special or interesting about your law school experience.

Golden Gate has been the perfect school for me and I have enjoyed my experience here immensely. My all-time favorite professor is Jon Sylvester, mostly because of my love for contracts! GGU has provided me so many opportunities to be involved in student organizations and student government. It was an honor to serve as the Student Bar Association President for the last year.

What is your greatest source of motivation/support as you work towards your JD?

My family and friends have been a constant source of motivation and support throughout the rollercoaster of emotions that I have experienced in law school. They are always asking about my classes and want to know what I am learning. Law school has not been easy, but I know that in the end it will be worth it because my degree will allow me to be an advocate and also help those in underrepresented communities. I have also been motivated by my fellow classmates because of their passion and drive in reaching for their goals.

What is your favorite thing to do when you are not at law school?

I love to cook Italian and French food and bake desserts. I try to take a cooking class every couple of months with friends outside of law school. My classmates and I have had some great wine tasting trips to Napa and hopefully we can continue that tradition after law school.

What message/advice do you have for your fellow law students?

A JD degree empowers you to pursue whatever career you choose. We have the ability to effectuate change and to make the most of this opportunity. I look forward to our class reunions to see what everyone is up to. I truly believe that my classmates will go on to do big things and I hope to stay in touch after graduation.

Jonathan Chu is the Director of the Graduate Law Programs. He is an alum of the GGU JD and LLM Taxation Program. He is an avid supporter of the students groups and advises APALSA, the Ambassador Group, and the Capital Group.