Marlyse V. ‘22
Hi, Marlyse! Welcome to the Hot Bench—it’s great to have you here after three years with the Law Weekly! First off, where are you from?
Thanks for having me! I’m from Dripping Springs, Texas – a smallish town just west of Austin. Home to a long stretch of highway and the best breakfast tacos.
What drew you to study law? And what brought you here to UVA Law specifically?
I worked at a legal aid organization in Chicago for two years after college, where I coordinated the Child Representative and Veterans Programs. I really enjoyed helping people in the legal system, and it confirmed that law was the right path for me. I loved the vibes at UVA Law at Admitted Students Weekend. The students seemed relaxed (for law students) and genuinely happy to be here, and I’ve found that to be true!
What are some of your favorite involvements here at UVA Law?
I’ve enjoyed being a part of Law Weekly, of course, and LALO! Also going to Firefly trivia every Tuesday night with the same crew. It’s not recognized or funded by Student Affairs, but it should be.
What are you doing after law school?
Something unique and unheard of among UVA Law students: I’m headed to a firm in D.C.! I’m hoping to do investigations, white collar, and trade sanctions work.
What are the seven wonders of the Law School?
The secret balcony on the third floor that they definitely gatekeep from students
Mandy <3
Gunner pit chairs (so ergonomic!!)
Professor Caleb Nelson’s blackboards
Law library holiday decorations
Clark Hall murals
The yoga and meditation room behind C&C
What is the best piece of advice someone has given you?
“You might want to mute yourself.”
Just kidding – it’s actually this: “The only person you should compare yourself to is the person you were yesterday.”
What’s on your bucket list for the rest of your time in Charlottesville?
Watch the stars one summer night in Shenandoah National Park. And go to as many wineries and on as many hikes as possible.
If you weren’t going into a legal career, what would you be doing?
Maybe editing or PR. I like behind-the-scenes work.
Lightning round!
What is your favorite study spot in Charlottesville?
I’m not really into that activity these days, but I’d say the Shenandoah Joe’s at Ivy!
Favorite winery?
King Family is a classic. I also love Mount Ida.
What is the phone app you use the most?
Notes app! My whole life is in there.
If you could live anywhere in the world, where would you choose?
Somewhere by the beach in Spain or Portugal.
Biggest pet peeve?
Charlottesville drivers, generally.
Favorite way to spend your downtime?
Reading, napping, Sporcle, staring into the abyss.
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Interviewed by Kathryn Querner ‘22
mav3p@virginia.edu