Originally from San Francisco, California, Kyle Hammerness obtained a bachelor’s degree in political science from Gettysburg College in Pennsylvania. He was inspired to take a more “active role” in the law after a couple of internships in college made him realize just how much lawyers can make a real difference. 

Tell us a bit about your background and professional path.

My high school AP Government class sparked my interest in law. In college, I completed internships with a district attorney and with an immigration defense attorney. The past two years I worked at The Federalist Society bringing legal scholars together to foster their scholarship and collaboration.

What key experiences do you feel have shaped you?

The first would have to be my study abroad semester in France when I was in college because at the time I had limited French language skills, and my host family spoke no English. I had to adapt—and I ended up thriving and loving my experience.

The second was through my internships; I helped Ukrainian and Haitian immigrants flee violence and obtain asylum status.

What motivated your decision to go to law school?

The law touches every aspect of people’s lives, and my work at The Federalist Society supporting law professors around the country demonstrated the unique role lawyers have in our country. I could no longer “sit on the sidelines.” I wanted to take a more active role and that requires a law degree.

Why did you choose the University of Chicago Law School?

The Law School encourages the pursuit of truth using the Humboldtian tradition with outstanding professors and educational rigor. Each UChicago Law alumnus that I have met is an incredible lawyer and always attributes their success to the school’s commitment to educating the brightest legal minds.

What do hope/plan to do with your legal education?

I am leaning towards appellate advocacy or plaintiff-side litigation, but I am also trying to keep an open mind in each of my classes so that if one of them really intrigues me, I can pursue that field.

What are you most looking forward to about being a law student?

I am excited to go to class and engage with my professors and peers. Seeing how they approach cases and complex legal questions will help me develop the skills to become a lawyer who can anticipate what judges, opposing counsel, and clients are thinking when in litigation or negotiations.

Any interesting hobbies or interests?

I love to play golf, I am an avid Los Angeles Kings and San Diego Padres fan, and I enjoy reading works of theology, philosophy, and history.

What is a “fun fact” about you?

When I was in high school, I performed at Carnegie Hall.