“College is a learning process. Time and patience, and learning about yourself really comes into play as you progress. Originally, I wanted to study civil engineering because I had an interest in understanding large-scale city infrastructures and utility systems. I started exploring patent law while studying civil engineering, and a spark kicked in—I realized I was more interested in the legal oversight of civil engineering rather than the development of the projects. I learned STEM and math weren’t my strongest suits, but I found a passion for learning about law, government and the criminal justice system. So, I ended up double majoring in criminology and in political science with an emphasis in law and politics.

One thing I learned in college is that you can’t do it alone. I got support from friends and family, advisors and professors. There are a lot of people on campus and in the professional world who are willing to help you, who care about your future and who will encourage you not to give up when it gets really hard. College can be tough, but having the strength and perseverance to get through it builds character and inspires others to do the same.

Another thing that helped was to get involved on campus. My heritage is Ute Mountain Ute, Northern Ute and Eastern Shoshone/Northern Arapaho, and I got involved at the Center for Native Excellence and Tribal Engagement. They helped me find other Native students on campus like me who are looking for community. We attend events, socialize and share experiences with one another. For me, that has helped a lot. I’ve also worked at the U Career Success Center for almost three years, and they’ve always helped me and supported me in every way. I give a lot of credit to them for my journey.

The number one organization on campus that helped me gain professional experience and confidence was the Hinckley Institute. They were able to find me internships, scholarships, and other resources. My internship with the Third District Court of Utah allowed me to realize that I’m capable of working in this field. Native Americans, from what I’m told, make up less than 1% of those in the legal profession. I’m not too concerned about that statistic, because now I’m not scared that I’m not good enough. I feel like I can go anywhere and do anything.”

—Joe Lopez, Class of 2025, B.S. in Political Science and B.S. in Criminology, College of Social and Behavioral Science, from West Valley City, Utah