While her dream career may have changed over time, 3L and Fresno State graduate, Brittany Hieng, knew she always wanted to help kids and be a voice for those who did not have one. Learn more about our 1L 2019 Student of the Year, including how she originally wanted to become a doctor, how she managed a relationship in law school from both sides of the coin, and how much she has learned about herself through this experience.
Tell us about your journey to law school?
When I was little, I knew I wanted to be a doctor or a lawyer, just like any typical little kid. I knew for sure that I loved working with kids. I feel that young kids are unique individuals on this earth, and we have the power to mold them into great adults. I started my journey at Sunnyside High School with the Doctor's Academy program. I was resolute with a medical career until September 2016, when my grandma fell ill. I was in and out of the hospital with her. From that point in my life, I saw so many things in the hospital that I could not fathom myself doing. I watched as they examined, x-rayed, and ran tests on her. The atmosphere and environment were nothing like I had envisioned or hoped. It was then that I realized med school was not for me. During this horrible journey, I realized I had a weak stomach and would not handle the responsibilities that come with being a health professional.
I knew for a fact that in my heart, I wanted to help people, especially young kids, and women. Many close friends encouraged me to attend the Law School 101 forum at San Joaquin College of Law to help me figure out the next steps in my career. Everything that was discussed at the forum was so fascinating that I knew I found my home. By choosing to do law, I would still get the opportunity to give back to my community. I could be a voice for kids, women, and minorities. In my attempt to learn more about the legal system, I attended a few meetings with a counselor at SJCL, which broadened my horizons, making me realize law was what I wanted to focus on. So instead of healing people, I want to help people and make a difference in their lives. I want to fight for them and provide justice.
How long were you in the behavioral health field before deciding to go into law?
I was doing it for about two years when my goal was to become a doctor. Then I decided to try out some other industries that would also allow me to help kids differently.
What made you decide to go to SJCL?
I chose to go to SJCL because it is close to my family and was the most affordable. I lost my dad at a young age and having my family close was essential to me.
How has your experience been as a law student at SJCL?
First off, I love being a law student. I love the people I have met and continue to meet. Law school is not a walk in the park. One must work hard and put in the work. I have had many sleepless nights, cried many tears, and felt like I was not good enough. But, with every low, there has been a high. I have overcome so many obstacles I never knew I could. Being a law student has taught me so much about hard work, determination, and myself.
How has the smaller size of SJCL helped you and have the professors been helpful for you during your time in school?
The community at SJCL feels like a family. I feel comfortable reaching out and talking to everyone here. The professors genuinely care about the students. Professors Goodrich, Masters, Kerner, Dean Atkinson, and Dean Tennerelli got me through my first year. When I struggled, they were all there with guidance and support. On many occasions, they opened up office hours to fit my needs. They are really flexible in ensuring they do everything they can to help you succeed. I am very thankful for the environment here at SJCL. If I were at a bigger school, I know that I would feel intimidated and scared. The smaller size here makes my law school experience better because it is so personal. The faculty knows your name and is invested in your growth.
What is your dream legal job?
I am still undecided. I know that I want to help those less fortunate and without a voice. Thankfully, the classes at SJCL are exposing me to different fields of law that accomplish these things. I am glad that they allow me to remain undecided while I continue studying.
After taking more classes and learning about different industries, what type of law are you interested in?
I am still very much interested in helping kids. However, after taking a few courses, especially criminal law with Judge Conklin, my interests have expanded. I was also able to score a summer spot at the New American Legal Clinic. At first, I did not think I could handle immigration law. Boy, was I wrong; being able to work one on one with clients was so rewarding. Their heartfelt "thank you," after every meeting made all the hard work worth it. Even though I do not know exactly which type of law I want to practice specifically, I know that I want to help people.
How does it feel knowing that your law degree gives you the freedom and option to work in any industry you choose?
I love it. That is one of the reasons why I chose law as my career. I want to do something that makes me happy because life is too short. I think having the freedom and flexibility in what you do makes all the difference.
What has been the most challenging aspect of law school?
In my opinion, the most challenging part of law school is the exams. It was a drastic change from my undergrad because our final exams are all-or-nothing. Since our grade is based solely on the final exam, if you fail, you fail the class. This has led to a lot of anxiety and sleepless nights for me. I struggled a lot at first, but I learned the importance of networking and creating study groups. Study groups have been my savior for more than one class since I started law school.
What is something that you learned in law school that no one told you about?
No one really tells you how much law school changes you. People always talk about how tough it can be. But, until you experience it for yourself, you truly do not understand. I have lost so many peaceful nights of sleep and missed huge holidays or milestones. I get so much anxiety and adrenaline from finals. Despite how law school is so exhausting and time-consuming, it has taught me so much about myself. I have learned about my strengths and weaknesses. I know more about my limits and what I can handle. I have worked harder than I have ever before. When I feel like I am at the end of my rope, I always discover more threads. The things that I have learned and been exposed to has opened my eyes and changed my mindset on so many things. Everything that I have learned has just made me more appreciative. It has shown me that I am in the right place because I really want this degree, so I am working my butt off to get it, and no one is going to get in my way.
What advice do you have for students who are starting law school soon or thinking about a law degree?
If you are contemplating a law degree, I would definitely recommend they make sure that this is what they really want to do. Law school is tough and requires a lot of sacrifices and dedication. They should reach out to law students, professors, and counselors to get a better understanding of all that getting a law degree would entail. If you are prepared for all the challenges, then you will know the best way to handle them.
For students just starting out, be in contact with your professors. They are the ones teaching the class, so they know the material the best. They will go out of their way to help and encourage you if you ask for it. So, do not be afraid to ask for help. Do not procrastinate. Memorize the rules as soon as you get them. Start study groups and make friends. Study groups have been vital to my time here; I do not know what I would have done without the people in my groups. Make sure to surround yourself with people who will support and encourage you. Find a group of people with similar goals, so you guys are constantly pushing each other to do better.
Why is networking so important in law school, and how important is it to make those connections before you graduate?
Networking is so important. It can expose you to many different people and opportunities you would not have had otherwise. Unfortunately, I have not done any law internships yet. However, I was lucky enough to work with the NALC clinic for a summer course. As I previously mentioned, it gave me the chance to work with actual clients. I was very privileged to be able to see firsthand how the work we do can help people's lives.
I was also lucky enough to work as a TA and do research for Professor Masters. During my time working with Professor Masters, I was able to help guide the 1Ls in his class. A lot of them still message me for advice which is very rewarding. He opened up so many doors for me that allowed me to create new relationships with many of the people in the offices of SJCL.
They say it takes a village to get through law school. Is it true for you, and if so, how important is it to you?
I agree 100%. I would not have made it this far without my village. I know it is strange to say because I am the only one in law school, but my whole family has played such a huge role in me succeeding at SJCL. For example, I spend so much of my days either in class or studying. It is very difficult for me to make time to eat, let alone have a healthy meal. My mom has started to pack me lunches and snacks to make sure I have the sustenance I need to focus on my classes. My siblings will stay up late each night to make sure I make it home safely from school. They will proofread my essays, even though they do not always understand them. They understand when I have to cancel plans because of school. They give me space and support I need to thrive. My family has eased many burdens off of me to make it easier for me to do well at school, and I cannot thank them enough.
What advice do you have for maintaining a healthy work/school/life balance?
My best advice would be to know your limits. I worked at In-N-Out for years. Since starting law school, I knew I would not be able to handle working a full-time job. I cut myself back and only work one day a week now. Even though it is only one day, that is one day where I take myself out of the law school mindset. I focus on my job. It is imperative to know yourself and what will work best for you. You need to find ways to destress, even if it is going to the gym for a few hours or taking a small break to scroll through Instagram. You have to afford yourself time to walk away from the material and relax. Focusing too much on school can cause you to miss crucial information and become frustrated.
What advice do you have for students who are trying to maintain a romantic relationship while in law school?
Having a relationship can seem almost impossible with all the commitments law school requires. It can start to take its toll. It is necessary to have really good communication about expectations and boundaries. It is important that your partner understands your responsibilities so they are not left frustrated and upset with you. It can be tough, especially if they are not in law school because they do not fully understand what you are going through. I got really lucky because my boyfriend already graduated from law school. Since he has been in my shoes before, he understands where I am coming from. Even though it is important to let your partner know that you are busy and focused on school, you should still make time to show their importance to you. The best thing that I have discovered to help with this is date nights. My boyfriend and I have a date night every week. Sometimes we have full-on dates, but other times we meet up to hang out with each other. It does not have to be elaborate; it just has to allow you to spend time together.
You have been on both sides of the relationship since your boyfriend went to law school first. What advice do you have for spouses and significant others who do not fully understand the time commitment law school requires?
When he was the one in law school, it was really tough for me. I could not understand how he could possibly be studying that much. As soon as I started law school and got to experience it firsthand, I immediately apologized to my boyfriend for questioning him. It can be tough not to see your significant other or invite them to events because they are busy with school. You really need to be patient and understanding. You have to constantly tell yourself that it will be worth it in the end. I would definitely recommend that both partners have good support systems outside of the relationship. It is easy to focus on the partner in law school, but the other partner needs to take care of themselves.
What was your experience like as a law student before and during the pandemic?
One of the main differences is that before the pandemic, I was able to separate my home and school life. When I was at school or in the library, my focus was 100% on the material. Now that the two have been combined, it is very easy to blur the lines. It is so much easier to get distracted and push off my coursework at home. I was definitely more disciplined when I was able to go to school and study in the rooms. It was very hard to navigate zoom and the entire online experience. It was definitely not the same as having in-person classes.
What advice do you have for staying productive at home, and how did you overcome any distractions?
I use self-bribery a lot. If I accomplished everything, I had to do that day, then I would reward myself by watching an episode of a show I like. For every chapter I finished, I would allow myself 5 minutes of phone time. You definitely have to do little things like that to keep yourself motivated.
Whenever you had issues or challenges on Zoom. Did professors/staff help you through those?
I really did not have many issues, but when I did, the SJCL IT department was always there for me. They were so amazing. They would always respond to my emails so quickly. They helped me gain access to the materials and resources I needed for all my courses. I definitely appreciate them, the staff, and the professors because they got us through an interesting school year.
If you could tell your younger self something about law school, what would it be?
I would tell my younger self to believe in herself. You started law school for a reason. You can do it if you just put your mind to it. You got this!
Want to learn more about San Joaquin College of Law, attend a virtual student forum or set up an appointment to discuss your law school future? Contact our Assistant Director of Admissions, Francisco "Javier" Rosas, or our Director of Admissions, Diane Steel, today!