My name is Brittany Lopez and I am a first generation VCU student who will graduate in December 2023. While at VCU, I studied International Studies with a concentration in social justice and minors in both religion and political science. I gained extensive knowledge of all regions of the world, including Asia, Africa, Europe, South America, and North America, with a particular focus on regions in South and North America. My areas of expertise include international studies, immigration, religion, and political science, which I have studied in depth. As evidence of my research skills, I have provided two writing samples from my time at VCU: a comparative essay on Argentina and El Salvador, and an analytical essay on cyber warfare. Both demonstrate my ability to conduct rigorous academic research.I have worked as a paralegal at an Immigration Law Firm for the past two years. My fluency in English and Spanish has allowed me to establish trust and comfort with all clients. During my tenure, I have acquired extensive knowledge of proposed and enacted immigration laws, as well as a wide range of immigration law areas including asylum, work permits, and special juvenile status, among others. I am planning to pursue a legal career by attending law school and eventually practicing law myself.