Negar Bondari

Being a first-generation college student has profoundly shaped my perspective, embedding in me a deep commitment to justice, empathy, and resilience. My journey from Tehran, Iran, to the United States has been one of great challenges, and it has opened my eyes to both the injustices that can occur within a legal system and the transformative role that law can play in creating a safe, inclusive society. This outlook not only shapes my personal and professional goals but fuels my commitment to contribute to the Los Angeles community and the broader legal profession, where I hope to stand up for vulnerable individuals and drive meaningful change.

Growing up in Tehran as a member of the Zoroastrian minority group, I witnessed firsthand the dangers and injustices faced by marginalized communities. As a teenager, I became the target of a group of men who harassed, threatened, and extorted money from me. I sold personal items, hoping to appease them, but the harassment only escalated. When I finally sought help from the police, I was laughed at, and the officers refused to take a report. After the stalkers found out I went to the police they kidnapped and raped me. The injuries I sustained were severe enough to keep me in the hospital for over a week. Seeking protection from the Iranian legal system, I was met with a horrifying reality that my "honor" could only be "restored" if I married one of my rapists and converted to Islam. Faced with this appalling sentence, my family and I fled the country, seeking refuge first in Austria, and then in the United States, where we could finally begin to rebuild our lives.

Arriving in the U.S. at 18, I found myself in an unfamiliar country with no English skills and limited resources. I began working full-time at a manufacturing factory while taking English as a Second Language (ESL) classes at Saddleback College, where I immersed myself in the language and culture of my new home. My father worked long hours in construction, while my mother cared for my young brother, who was also adjusting to an entirely new way of life. Together, we navigated the cultural, linguistic, and systemic barriers that came with being immigrants. It was a demanding journey, but one that taught me the importance of resilience and adaptability--qualities I believe are essential in both law and life.

It was at Saddleback College that I first encountered the American legal system and began to see a path for my future. Upon learning that American court proceedings were open to the public, I started attending hearings at the Orange County Superior Court. I was captivated by the legal process, especially the protections and rights offered to victims and the integrity of the process. If my experiences had taken place in the United States, I would have had access to a system that respects and protects victims, rather than punishing them further. This realization motivated me to pursue a career in law, with a focus on protecting vulnerable individuals and seeking justice for those who have been wronged.

For all of my undergraduate studies, while attending school full-time and working multiple jobs, I continued visiting the courthouse, observing trials, and deepening my understanding of the legal system. Overtime, I realized that my experiences and perspectives as a survivor, an immigrant, and a first-generation college student would enable me to connect with and advocate for others who have been marginalized, especially those who lack the resources or support to navigate the complexities of the legal system.

My experiences as a first-generation college student have also taught me the importance of diversity and inclusivity. The support I received from professors, mentors, and classmates allowed me to persevere through challenges I could never have overcome alone. I learned that the power of diversity lies not only in bringing new perspectives but also in fostering a sense of community and support among people from different backgrounds. I am committed to using my role in the legal profession to amplify these values, ensuring that all individuals, regardless of their background, have a voice and are treated with dignity and respect.

In Los Angeles, one of the most diverse cities in the world, my unique background and experiences will allow me to connect with and support the city's multicultural community. I understand the challenges faced by immigrants, refugees, and those who come from marginalized communities, and I am committed to advocating for their rights. Los Angeles is a city built on the contributions of people, and I am eager to contribute to this legacy by using my legal training to support the city's residents and foster an environment where everyone feels safe, valued, and empowered.

Beyond Los Angeles, I believe my experiences as a first-generation college student will also allow me to make a meaningful impact within the broader legal profession. The perspective I bring is one that recognizes the importance of empathy, resilience, and inclusivity. I understand the immense responsibility that comes with being a lawyer--not only to represent clients but to advocate for fairness and integrity in the legal system as a whole. By promoting these values within the profession, I hope to contribute to a culture that upholds the principles of justice, equity, and compassion.

Ultimately, my journey as a first-generation college student has been one of overcoming obstacles, finding my voice, and turning adversity into purpose. My journey has taught me that true justice is more than an abstract concept; it is a commitment to protecting and uplifting those who are vulnerable and to creating a world where everyone is treated with dignity and respect. My life and legal career's mission is not only to seek justice, but to ensure that no one, regardless of their background, is left feeling powerless or unseen. This is the legacy I hope to build as a lawyer--a legacy of resilience, empathy, and unwavering commitment to justice for all.