For this edition of Texas Law’s Student Spotlight series, meet 2L Lizeth Badillo GarcÃa!
Q: What did you study as an undergrad here at UT Austin?
A: I triple-majored in Sociology, Psychology, and Latin American Studies, with a minor in History. (Hook’ em!)
What have you participated in while at Texas Law?
During my 1L year, I had the pleasure of serving as an associate editor for the Texas Hispanic Journal of Law & Policy, was a 1L representative for the Chicano/Hispanic/Latino Law Students Association, and a student mentor for Texas Law’s Pipeline Program. I also volunteered more than 50 hours of pro bono service by participating in some of the projects the Mithoff Pro Bono Program has to offer—including the Afghan Asylum Project and the Spring Break Immigration Service Trip, to name a few. Last summer, I interned in the Austin chambers of the Honorable David A. Ezra, Senior District Judge for the Western District of Texas, and next summer, I will be working at the Austin office of Kirkland & Ellis. As a 2L, I am serving as a staff editor for The Review of Litigation and as a member of the Jessup International Law Moot Court team.
What made you want to become a lawyer?
My parents took an enormous risk by migrating from Mexico to the U.S. when I was a toddler. They have worked tirelessly to provide me with a future full of opportunity, so from a very young age, I realized that what I do for a career will impact not only my life but that of my entire family. I ultimately decided to go to law school because I knew it would allow me to honor my parents by maximizing my potential—both academically and professionally—and help me one day repay them for their continued sacrifice.
What’s the most interesting class you’ve taken at the Law School?
One of my favorite classes at Texas Law has been my 1L spring Persuasive Writing and Advocacy class with Professor Murrell. The class not only helped me further refine my legal research and writing skills, but it also helped me discover my passion for appellate advocacy. The experience inspired me to take Advanced Legal Writing: Appeals with Professor Oliver this semester, which has been added to my list of favorite classes.
How does being a mom affect your approach to law school?
As a mom to a little boy in kindergarten, my approach to law school—from the initial decision to pursue a legal education, to how I manage my schedule—is entirely shaped by my devotion to my son and my commitment to ensuring his future. Although balancing the responsibilities of both roles is challenging, being a parenting student has also been an incredible blessing because of how much my son motivates me to succeed.
How do you envision your life after Texas Law?
After graduation, I hope to remain in Texas to clerk and practice as a commercial litigator while still maintaining my commitment to pro bono service. Later in my career, I hope to pivot to plaintiff-side advocacy as a public interest attorney at one of the many fantastic immigration nonprofits in Austin.