If you’ve ever wondered whether there’s room for someone who looks like you, know this: you belong here.

TAP shares the journeys of five of our mentors whose stories reflect resilience, representation, and the power of mentorship.

“Our justice system must reflect the communities it serves. As lawyers, we are a vital part of that system. If you encounter spaces where you don’t feel like you belong, those spaces are probably due for a change.”

“Trust in the judicial system is strengthened when the public sees that lawyers, judges, and other legal professionals look like them.”

“Once someone has a judicial clerkship, it really opens the door to different types of careers in the appellate field.”

“Don’t prioritize networking over studying, clerk, and be kind to everyone you interact with—the legal community is a small one, your reputation is everything, and relationships matter.”

“I think that in absolute terms, there are a lot of accomplished and wonderful women in the Appellate Bar.”

“I had no idea how hard it is to break into appellate practice with no support system and no guidance.”

“When students and young attorneys see people who look like them or share similar backgrounds and experiences arguing before appellate courts, it signals they can do the same.”

“I participated in the Native American Law Student Association’s moot court competitions in law school. That and my appellate advocacy class really helped me become a better writer and more confident speaker.”

“Mentorship has been critical to my own success. A great mentor is often a great teacher, plus mentors can open doors to the right opportunities.”

“Your background and experiences are your greatest strengths and your unique perspectives will be at a premium at some point of your career. “

“t=There still seems to be a gap in indigenous people serving as lead counsel and arguing cases affecting Indian country nationally. Diversity at all levels is important to produce better and more informed decision-making.”

“Encourage judges and faculty to look beyond traditional proxies and focus on other markers of talent and success, such as overcoming adversity, beating the odds, and making unconventional choices.”

“We want a legal profession that reflects our communities. Diversity encourages intellectual discourse and fosters confidence in our justice system.”

“Great appellate lawyers can come from all different backgrounds and the law benefits from great lawyers on both sides of any argument.”

“Maintain your integrity and cultivate meaningful relationships because you never know who may be going to bat for you.”

“Consider opportunities in government service, either at the outset of your career or later down the line.”

“Mentor all law students who have the ability and interest in appellate practice.”

“Build a community around you that you can lean on throughout this journey, because the legal profession (while it has made some strides) is still overwhelmingly failing to create inclusive and sustainable pathways for people from diverse backgrounds.”