Why do I want to practice law? I could give you a million of the typical answers: I want to change the world, I like enforcing the law, I come from a long line of attorneys, but the answer to why I want to practice law is much different. I do not come from a long line of attorneys, not even a long line of graduates as I am the first of my family to go to college. I want to be an attorney because I have been a part of a family who at times needed an attorney, but the prices are too far out of reach. I have mentored children at New Bridge Academy in Columbia, SC who desperately need legal advice and legal help but cannot afford the high prices. I want to be an attorney because I want to make legal help accessible. I think in a sense just like medical care is deserved and should be affordable, so should legal assistance. I want to be an attorney because I know I cannot change the entire world, but I could make a small difference and to me, that is just as important. I want to make the world a safer place and so many people resort to horrible choices due to not being able to receive sound legal advice. I want to be an advocate for those that do not fall into the category of public defender cases but also do not fit into the category of being able to afford huge legal expenses. If given this scholarship, I will have the opportunity to help so many people by inspiring others that you do not have to come from a long list of alumni to make something of yourself, you just have to apply yourself and push forward. I do not want to practice law for the financial gains that can come, for the status, or because of family history, but I want to practice law because I think if more people like me had access to funding to pursue occupations like lawyers, doctors, nurses, etc then the world would be a bit of a better place. As an attorney, I would work with my clients and devote my life's work to making sure people like me get a voice and know that they matter just as much as others. I am grateful for the opportunity to apply for this scholarship. Thank You, Marley Todd