user profile avatar

Ana Palacios Villalobos

935

Bold Points

1x

Finalist

Bio

I am a senior at the University of Houston, majoring in Political Science with a minor in Business Administration. I currently have a 3.79 GPA, and I am expected to graduate in May 2026.

Education

University of Houston

Bachelor's degree program
2024 - 2026
  • Majors:
    • Political Science and Government

Miscellaneous

  • Desired degree level:

    Doctoral degree program (PhD, MD, JD, etc.)

  • Graduate schools of interest:

  • Transfer schools of interest:

  • Majors of interest:

  • Not planning to go to medical school
  • Career

    • Dream career field:

      Law Practice

    • Dream career goals:

      Public Service Scholarship of the Law Office of Shane Kadlec
      My interest in law began with my desire to help others overcome challenges similar to the ones I faced as an immigrant. I moved to the United States from Mexico when I was seventeen, leaving behind my family, friends, and everything familiar to pursue a better future. Like many immigrants, I quickly realized how complicated and intimidating the U.S. immigration system can be. From lengthy paperwork to confusing legal terms, the process can easily discourage those who are simply trying to build a better life. Experiencing this struggle firsthand inspired me to pursue a career in law, specifically immigration law, so that I can be a source of guidance and support for others in the same position. Especially since many immigrants did not have the resources and time I had, which made their cases more complex. While volunteering at the University of Houston Law Center Immigration Clinic from August 2024 to May 2025, I worked closely with attorneys who provided free legal services to low-income individuals. My responsibilities included assisting with client intakes, filling out immigration forms, and translating for Spanish-speaking clients. It was through this experience that I learned how powerful and impactful the legal field can be. One moment that truly solidified my passion for law was when I helped translate an interview for a Spanish-speaking man who had fled his home country after enduring domestic and sexual violence. Listening to his story and helping him communicate it accurately so he could apply for refugee status was deeply moving. It showed me how the law can provide not only justice but also safety, hope, and dignity. Currently, I am an intern at BakerRipley’s immigration law department, another nonprofit organization that serves immigrant and low-income communities. Here, I work even more closely with clients, guiding them through forms, documentation, and legal procedures. Every day, I witness how access to legal support can transform people’s lives by helping families stay together, protecting refugees, and giving individuals the chance to pursue their dreams. These experiences have strengthened my belief that law is not just about procedures; it is about people. It is about using knowledge and compassion to open doors for those who feel powerless. My goal is to become an immigration attorney who advocates for fairness, equality, and human dignity. I want to ensure that immigrants like me are not defined by their struggles, but by their strength, resilience, and the opportunities they are given to succeed. As a college senior, I am now excited to start my law school application process and continue to follow the dreams that inspired me to move to this country.
      Ana Palacios Villalobos Student Profile | Bold.org