A few setbacks prevented Christina Rodriguez from enrolling in a JD program after graduating with her bachelor’s degree in political science and international studies from the University of Utah. Instead, she made a pivot turn and applied to Utah Law’s Master of Legal Studies (MLS) program.
“In 2024, while preparing for the LSAT and applying to law schools, my personal life took an unexpected turn. I struggled with the LSAT, taking it three times with disappointing results. I faced a wave of law school rejections, lost my job, and felt completely adrift,” Rodriguez says. “Still, my end goal has never changed. As a first-generation student and a Latina, I’ve always known my journey wouldn’t be linear. The obstacles I faced were tough, but not unexpected. I applied to the MLS program and was admitted.”
Enrolling in the MLS program was the right decision for her.
“The program has been instrumental in helping me realign my purpose. It’s reaffirmed that this path is the one for me,” she says.
Rodriguez shares that the most challenging and rewarding aspects of the MLS program have been building her confidence back up and overcoming imposter syndrome.
“One thing I realized is that no one can tell if your confidence is real or not. So I decided to fake it until I made it. I showed up, I pushed through my own doubt, and I kept putting one foot in front of the other even when I didn’t feel ready. And somewhere along the way, that fake confidence slowly turned into something real,” Rodriguez says. “Looking back, that transformation was the most rewarding part of this journey—not just gaining skills, but learning to trust myself again.”
In addition, she values the differences among her fellow cohort members and what they can learn from each other in class.
“Being surrounded by such a dynamic mix of individuals—each bringing unique perspectives shaped by different cultural backgrounds, age groups, industries, and professional experiences—has been both inspiring and enriching. The collaborative environment fosters unexpected learning opportunities,” she says.
What Rodriguez likes best about the College of Law is the student body, as she has participated in the Student Bar Association this year as the MLS in-person liaison.
“From the very first day, I felt genuinely welcomed by everyone I met. There’s a strong sense of unity and support that runs throughout the campus, creating a community where people truly look out for one another. Whether it’s collaborating on group projects, cheering each other on at events, or just sharing a smile in the hallway, the atmosphere here is incredibly uplifting and inclusive,” she says.
Rodriguez values the personal growth and academic insight she’s received from the MLS program. She looks forward to enrolling in a JD program beginning fall 2025.
“Following the completion of the MLS program, I’ve been awarded a merit scholarship to attend law school in Texas. I am most passionate about immigration law. However, I remain open to other paths, as the emotional and personal nature of the work may present significant mental and emotional challenges,” she says.
Learn more about the MLS program.