A proud Midwesterner from Junction City, Wisconsin, Saralyn Carcy is passionate about public service. A graduate of Duke University, she comes to the Law School with experiences that span internships in government and consulting roles in various industries. While she currently has her heart set on a career in public interest law, she is eager to explore the different ways that a law degree can help her make a real difference in people’s lives.

Tell us a bit about your background and professional path.

I grew up in central Wisconsin with my mom’s Trinidadian roots shaping much of my identity. At Duke, I studied public policy and interned in government before working as a management consultant in Chicago. Those experiences convinced me that my true passion is public service.

What key experiences do you feel have shaped you?

Interning at the US Department of Commerce showed me how inspiring it is to work alongside dedicated public servants. Graduating as a first-generation college student was another defining moment, especially as it enabled me to guide my younger brother through the application process. Additionally, consulting across industries (e.g., automotives, federal and state government, non-profit) helped me realize I feel most fulfilled when I believe that my work improves people’s lives.

What motivated your decision to go to law school? 

As a consultant, I learned how essential it is for me to feel like my work matters beyond the numbers. I want to be part of creating change that lasts and impacts communities. Right now, a law degree feels like the best next step for me to combine those values with action.

Why did you choose the University of Chicago Law School?

Chicago already feels like home. I’ve lived here for the past 1.5 years, and as a proud Midwesterner, I can’t imagine a better city in which to study. Furthermore, the University of Chicago Law School offers the rigor, resources, and community I need to launch a meaningful career in public interest law. 

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

I’m hoping to find a career in government where I can put my education to work helping people and strengthening government institutions. I don’t know exactly which path yet, but I’m excited to explore, experiment, and discover the right fit.

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

I can’t wait to learn alongside such a talented and driven group of classmates. Meeting people with different experiences and perspectives and learning from faculty whose work I’ve admired is what I’m most looking forward to about beginning this next chapter.

Any interesting hobbies or interests? 

I love scrapbooking as a creative outlet, baking with friends, playing board games, long walks by Lake Michigan, and watching 1940s and 1950s films.

What is a “fun fact” about you?

For three months, I worked in a mine as a consultant—definitely not your typical office job. Instead of business-casual, my daily uniform was a hard hat, safety glasses, and steel-toe boots.

Anything else you’d like to share?

I’m genuinely excited to dive into this next stage and connect with my classmates. Beyond academics, I’m looking forward to building friendships, learning about my interests, and being part of a community that shares a passion for making a difference.