Nathan Missaghi

Every Friday night, after long weeks of tireless work, my family gathers for Shabbat dinner. My dad, who works 12-hour shifts seven days a week in retail, and my mom, who often helps him when needed, always make time for our family tradition. These moments are more than a dinner, they're a reminder of why I'm here and what drives me. My parents' sacrifices are the foundation of everything I do, and they fuel my drive to succeed and pursue my goals relentlessly.

Growing up in Encino, I was surrounded by hardworking families like mine, all striving to create better futures. My parents' relentless dedication taught me that nothing worthwhile comes without effort. My parents didn't have the chance to finish college, and no one in my family had pursued graduate school or a legal career. This made my decision to enter law school uncharted territory, but it also inspired me to pursue a career where I could advocate for others and make a meaningful difference.

Graduating magna cum laude from UCLA was more than an academic milestone, it was a moment that belonged to my entire family. As the first to graduate from college and now the first to pursue graduate school, I carried their hopes and dreams with me. Walking across that stage, I knew every late night and moment of doubt was worth it because of what that degree symbolized for my family and their sacrifices.

Now in my second year at Southwestern Law School, I feel incredibly fortunate to be part of a community that has become my second home. Southwestern's professors have been more than educators--they've been mentors who have guided me through the challenges of law school and taught me lessons that extend far beyond the classroom. They've shaped the way I approach not only the law but also life, instilling in me the confidence and integrity I need to achieve my goals.

Last summer, I had the privilege of working at the Homampour Law Firm and Yoka Smith, where I saw firsthand the transformative power of trial advocacy. Watching skilled attorneys fight passionately for their clients showed me how much impact a dedicated lawyer can have. These experiences deepened my commitment to becoming a trial lawyer, and the thought of returning to similar work this summer excites me. It's another opportunity to grow, learn, and move closer to the career I'm meant for.

It was during my Legal Writing Trial Track class at Southwestern that I discovered just how much trial advocacy resonates with me. Participating in mock trials, making arguments, and responding on my feet brought out a side of me I didn't know existed. The courtroom felt like home, a place where I could use my voice to stand up for others. That class wasn't just a requirement--it was a turning point that solidified my belief that I'm meant to be a trial lawyer. For me, it's not just about winning cases, it's about serving justice and making a tangible difference in people's lives.

While many kids grow up idolizing superheroes, my heroes were trial lawyers like Arash Homampour, Brian Panish, and Robert Glassman. Watching their ability to command a courtroom and fight for justice inspired me to strive for the same mastery. Their careers showed me what true advocacy looks like, and I want to bring that same level of dedication and excellence to my own career in law.

Being a first-generation student has come with its challenges. Imposter syndrome, financial pressures, and the weight of representing my family's dreams have been tough to navigate. But these challenges have also been my greatest motivators. They've pushed me to work harder, seek guidance from mentors, and embrace every opportunity to grow.

Southwestern has given me more than an education, it's given me a purpose. The professors here have shown me that the law isn't just about rules and cases, it's about people. Their mentorship has shaped my character and reinforced my commitment to using the law as a tool for justice and equity.

For me, studying law at Southwestern is about more than earning a degree, it's about building a legacy. When I walk into a courtroom, I'll carry with me the sacrifices of my parents, the lessons of my professors, and the hopes of everyone who has believed in me.

I hope to use my education to fight for those who need a voice, to ensure that justice is accessible, and to honor the sacrifices that made my journey possible. This is my story, and it's just the beginning of the difference I'm ready to make.