09/03/2026
🌟 Board Member Spotlight: Get to Know Our SWAPLA Board!
Valentina O’Brien – Law Fair Director Elect
🌊 Favorite vacation spot:
The coast of Maine. “My version of heaven is New England in the summer”—complete with sea air, a lobster roll, and beachcombing for sea glass treasures.
⚖️ Best advice for pre-law & law students:
“Law schools admit people, not stats.” Follow your genuine interests instead of trying to become what you think law schools want. You’ll enjoy the journey more, experience less burnout, and ultimately become a stronger applicant. And remember: there are more than 14 law schools worth going to!
🌮 Favorite meal:
A Maine lobster roll is tough to beat, but after 10 years in Texas, a good breakfast taco may have taken the top spot.
💡 Qualities that make a great future law student:
Curiosity, open-mindedness, grit, and resilience. The law school journey isn’t always smooth, so having the courage to keep exploring, learning, and moving forward—even after a stumble—is essential.
📚 Career journey:
I’ve been working in pre-law advising since 2022, following six years working with graduate business programs.
💜 Highlight of the week:
Time with my 4-year-old daughter! Our current favorites include nightly Taylor Swift dance parties and reading Matilda together.
🤝 SWAPLA involvement:
Last year, I served as a Board Member-at-Large. This year, I am stepping into the role of Law Fair Director Elect👩⚖️
