Vyomika Gandhi, ’29, brings an interdisciplinary background in science and public service to UChicago Law. A Georgetown University graduate with degrees in psychology and neuroscience, Gandhi has worked in the nonprofit sector and conducted research on the effects of opioids and HIV on the brain. We spoke with her about her path to law school, her interest in the intersection of science, law, and policy, and what drew her to UChicago Law.

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

After college at Georgetown, I worked as a program coordinator at the Center for Public & Nonprofit Leadership in Washington, D.C for two years. I supported the Center’s executive education programs, events, and research. I also wanted to explore scientific research in a wet lab setting—something I’d never done before—and worked for a year as a research assistant in a lab studying the effects of opioids and HIV on the brain. 

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

My work experience in the nonprofit sector has significantly shaped the ideals I have for my career. Working with nonprofit leaders, I’ve felt inspired by their love for and connection with the communities they serve. I hope to achieve that level of that dedication in my career as a lawyer. 

What inspired you to pursue a legal education?

In science, our work is always intersecting with law and policy. From allowing us to utilize scientific innovations like CRISPR in our experiments to promoting our work via intellectual property protections, the law provides structure and guidance in science. Learning about the complex history of drug regulation policies and understanding the environmental determinants of health also led me to be interested in pursuing a legal education.

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

I’m interested in life sciences/regulatory law, intellectual property law, and “neurolaw”—how our understanding of the brain does shape and should shape the way legal standards are created. I’m sure I’ll have to pick between them at some point, but for now I’m excited to learn as much as I can in law school. 

Why did you choose the University of Chicago Law School?

I appreciate UChicago Law School’s commitment to free inquiry and expression. Also, it felt like the interdisciplinary nature of the law school aligned with my interests in science and law.

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

I’d like to be back in DC working for a government agency someday doing some form of regulatory science law. The government plays such an important role in advancing science and innovation while also keeping our country safe, and I’d like to be a part of it. 

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

I’m really looking forward to being in school again! Also, I’m excited to explore Chicago and all that it has to offer. 

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

Over the past few months, I’ve been volunteering at a pottery studio called Studio Kusi in DC! It’s been a fun and challenging experience, and it’s felt particularly rewarding since Kusi donates all profit to mutual aid. I also enjoy reading and keeping up with my friends’ book reviews on Goodreads, as well as spending time with my friends’ cats (I am allergic to cats).

What's a fun fact about you that your classmates might be surprised to learn?

I used to be on a competitive dance team in college, and I competed on a synchronized ice-skating team in high school. I still enjoy dancing and skating when I can!