Kalina Laleva (JD and Honors Lawyering Program 09)

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

I was born and raised in Bulgaria and lived there during communist, post-communist, and early democratic times. I attended law school in Bulgaria for 5 years, and then moved to the U.S. in search of better opportunities. I've lived in San Francisco for the last 5 years and have officially declared it - My Home!

Before entering Golden Gate University, I learned how to ride a motorcycle, and have been riding it back and forth to school every day.

Why did you decide to go to law school?

I have been involved in some sort of law-related activity since I was 18. After attending law school in Bulgaria, I was a paralegal in the US. I suppose you could call this a true passion for law, since I have not grown bored or given up for 11 years now.

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

I have had the unique opportunity to compare the legal education in Bulgaria to that of the U.S. I have to say that I have enjoyed the American law school process much more than the Bulgarian because of the Socratic Method and the terrific opportunities for class participation. I have been exposed to classes and internships/externships that have helped me with my legal writing, which for me, as an immigrant, has been invaluable.

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

That I can see the end of the road! I consider going to a US law school as one of the most challenging things I have ever done. It brings me great satisfaction that I have been able to achieve little successes along the way - scholarship, school ranking, wonderful internships and an offer to work at an IP litigation law firm.

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

I enjoy riding my motorcycle and exploring San Francisco.

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

My grandmother taught me: "you can achieve anything that you want to; you just have to work hard to reach your goals!"