Maya Vibhakar, ’29, comes to UChicago Law with a strong interest in government, advocacy, and civil rights. A UCLA graduate, Vibhakar has interned in the White House and U.S. House of Representatives and most recently served as a fellow with the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus. We spoke with her about her path to law school, her commitment to public interest work, and what drew her to UChicago Law.

Tell us a little about your background and the path that led you to law school.

Born and raised in Maryland, I grew up coming to DC, from watching Obama’s inauguration on the National Mall to attending the March for Our Lives rally. My proximity to government and advocacy throughout my life drew me first to politics, and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my last year as a fellow with the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus, chaired by Rep. Grace Meng. But as many of our democracy’s most consequential debates increasingly play out in the courts, I’ve come to appreciate the power of a law degree and the critical role attorneys play in shaping policy, protecting our rights, and creating change. I could only imagine a future for myself where being the most effective advocate I could be meant becoming a lawyer.

What are one or two professional, academic, or personal experiences that have most shaped who you are, and why?

In college, I interned in both the House of Representatives and the White House, and in each role, part of my job was answering constituent calls. I heard from so many people who were at their lowest, when the only place they could think to turn was their congressman—or even the President of the United States. I’ve been fortunate enough in my life to always have had people or programs I could rely on when I needed help, and hearing from people every day for months on end who didn’t have those same resources made me realize that I wanted to spend my career helping others navigate life’s difficult moments in any way I can.

What inspired you to pursue a legal education?

It comes down to that desire to make the world better. There are so many ways to do that through a career, but I think there’s something especially compelling about helping people navigate and understand one of society’s most complex institutions—the legal system. I know I’ll find a legal career interesting and intellectually challenging, but I also think being able to interact with clients and be face-to-face with the people I’m helping will make the profession incredibly rewarding as well.

What areas of law or legal issues are you most interested in exploring?

I’m looking forward to learning more about constitutional and civil rights law, especially as they relate to voting rights and freedom of speech.

Why did you choose the University of Chicago Law School?

Having graduated from a large university for undergrad, I wanted to attend a law school with a smaller class size and a closer relationship between the students and professors. I also appreciated UChicago’s commitment to freedom of expression because I think it’s the best environment to grow as a student. The long summers were a bonus too!

What impact do you hope to have with your legal education?

I hope to spend my career doing civil rights work and impact litigation, while also taking on pro bono cases. My goal as an attorney would be to have a career where, even on the longest, most stressful, or all-around bad days, I can still feel proud knowing that my work is contributing to a greater good.

What are you most excited to experience as a UChicago Law student?

The clinics at UChicago Law! As much as I’m looking forward to my legal education in the classroom, I’m also excited about the prospect of learning how to use it in the real world. As a former theater kid, I also have to mention that I’m excited for the law school musical.

What are some of your hobbies or interests outside of school and work?

I enjoy reading memoirs (Educated by Tara Westover, When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi, and Born a Crime by Trevor Noah are my favorites) and rollerblading (ideally by the beach)!

What are a few fun facts about you that your classmates might be surprised to learn?

I love movies and music, and one of my side hustles in college was being a seat filler. I had a blast going to movie premieres, talk shows, talent shows, and award shows, including the Grammys.

Is there anything else you'd like to share with the UChicago Law community?

Just that I’m excited to meet everyone in September!