Here at AJMLS, we are proud to celebrate the success stories of our students who go above and beyond to make an impact, both in and outside the classroom. One such story is that of Rachel Avrunin, a second-year student whose journey to law school is a testament to perseverance, passion, and the power of human connection.
A Bold Leap into Law
Rachel’s path to law was far from traditional. After dedicating 20 years to raising her four children, Rachel made a life-changing decision in 2023 to pursue her lifelong passion for law. “Taking the leap to pursue law was a bold decision, but one that felt true to my heart,” she says. Now, in her second year at AJMLS, Rachel’s most meaningful achievements aren’t just academic; they lie in the relationships she builds every day.
From her interactions with peers, applicants, mentees, and professors, Rachel’s journey has been deeply enriched by the human connections that form the foundation of her legal education. “These relationships have profoundly enriched my legal education, reinforcing the values of empathy, communication, and dedication that shape both my personal and professional life,” she reflects.
Bringing a Unique Perspective to Legal Education
In addition to her studies, Rachel brings a unique perspective to her legal education as a Licensed Master of Social Work (LMSW) in Georgia. This dual background equips her to approach legal advocacy with a deep sense of empathy, focusing on client-centered support. Rachel’s professional goal is to provide advocacy that emphasizes open communication, diligence, and an unwavering commitment to justice.
“I am committed to becoming a compassionate and effective legal advocate,” she shares, and her work already reflects this commitment. One of her proudest academic accomplishments has been earning a spot on the Dean’s List, with particular excellence in her Fall 2024 Evidence course.
A Passion for Advocacy and Social Justice
Beyond the classroom, Rachel’s internship with the Office of the DeKalb County District Attorney’s Victim Witness Assistance Program in Summer 2024 was a pivotal experience. Leveraging both her legal education and social work background, she advocated for victims of violent crimes, ensuring they received the justice and support they deserved. This role reaffirmed Rachel’s passion for advocacy and her dedication to social justice, particularly at the intersection of law and social work.
As a Peer Mentor at AJMLS, Rachel helps guide new students through the challenges of law school, offering support and insight. “Mentorship is a reciprocal process that fosters growth, resilience, and mutual learning,” she explains. Additionally, her role as a Student Assistant in the Office of Admissions allows her to use her skills in public speaking, organizational management, and advising to help prospective students navigate their law school journey.
A Vision for the Future
Rachel’s aspirations are clear: she aims to become a meticulous, detail-oriented legal advocate who blends academic excellence with deep empathy. “Human connection is the cornerstone of effective advocacy,” she says. With her background in social work, Rachel is dedicated to ensuring that every client feels heard, supported, and empowered throughout their legal journey.
As Rachel continues her education at AJMLS, we are confident that her commitment to advocacy, mentorship, and social justice will shape her into a compassionate and highly effective legal advocate.
We are excited to watch Rachel’s continued growth and success as she pursues her goals, making a meaningful impact in the legal world and beyond.