Mahea Aki is a proud native Hawaiian and first-generation college graduate who grew up on the island of Kauai. She attended the University of Hawaii at Mānoa studying psychology and graduated summa cum laude in 2023. Soon after, she began working for the University of Utah in the Office of the Dean of Students. With a passion for advocacy, Aki applied to the Master of Legal Studies (MLS) program at the S.J. Quinney College of Law.
“Advocacy has always been at the heart of my work, and I want to deepen my understanding of the law to better serve underrepresented communities—especially elders, children, and those impacted by the foster care system or systemic marginalization. The MLS program felt like the right path to expand my impact and equip me with the tools to advocate more effectively,” Aki says.
In her current role as a resident outreach coordinator, Aki works closely with students who may experience any challenges or transitions and need additional support. She is ready to help students set purposeful goals, navigate the university’s processes and policies, or connect them to campus and community resources.
“Advocacy to me is helping students find their voice and become more confident in themselves to find the answers they are searching for. I am committed to assisting students facing challenging circumstances like new-student experiences, withdrawals, housing and basic need concerns, and loss. I aim to help them feel well-supported and empowered in their academic and personal journeys,” she says.
Aki enrolled in the in-person MLS program, a uniquely all-female cohort this academic year. She appreciates that the MLS program fosters a supportive and inclusive learning environment by focusing on collaboration rather than competition.
“I’ve truly enjoyed learning alongside a group of inspiring women. Each of us brings a unique perspective, and our discussions often connect legal concepts to real-life scenarios, which helps me retain and apply the material more meaningfully,” Aki says.
In addition, Aki appreciates the support and expertise of both the faculty and staff.
“Everyone is genuinely invested in our growth and success. The building itself is also a welcoming and well-maintained space, which makes long class days much more manageable and even enjoyable,” Aki says.
She is honored to be a recipient of the newly established MLS Path to Legal Impact scholarship, which is a partial-tuition scholarship awarded to MLS students with an outstanding record of academic and professional achievements.
“Receiving the MLS Path to Legal Impact scholarship affirmed that my journey and contributions are not only recognized but valued. It’s a powerful motivator and a source of hope. It reinforces my belief that I belong in this field and that I’m capable of making lasting, meaningful change,” Aki says.
Aki will finish the program in August 2026 and looks forward to making a greater impact in her community.
“My goal is to pursue mediation and paralegal work, with a focus on housing justice and legal literacy. I also hope to become more involved in the political sector, using my legal knowledge to advocate for policy changes that uplift marginalized communities,” she says.
Learn more about the Master of Legal Studies program.