For Valentina Pérez Gutiérrez, the decision to attend law school was deeply personal. “I chose to attend law school because I wanted to gain knowledge of the legal system and use that knowledge to help people understand its intricacies,” she shared. Having witnessed firsthand the complexities of the legal system, Valentina felt a calling to become the advocate others could rely on. “I knew I wanted to be that person with the requisite knowledge to jump through hoops and advocate for you.”
When it came time to choose a law school, The Catholic University of America Columbus School of Law stood out for several reasons. “One of the biggest selling points for Catholic was its prime location in Washington, D.C. Being a few minutes away from the heart of D.C. made it a top contender early on,” she explained. But it wasn’t just the location that sealed the deal. “The thing that really sold me was the way current students talked about their experience. They described not only a welcoming and collaborative environment but also one where professors and staff alike wanted you to succeed.”
During her time at Catholic Law, Valentina immersed herself in a variety of practical experiences that enriched her education. “I was honored to participate in the Law and Public Policy Certificate Program,” she said. Her internships included roles with the House of Representatives’ Committee of Oversight and Reform, the Superior Court of the District of Columbia, and the civil litigation firm Thomas, Thomas, and Hafer, LLP. Additionally, she was a member of the National Mock Trial Team, where she honed her advocacy skills by competing against other law students and arguing in real courtrooms. “Being part of the National Mock Trial Team is definitely one of my highlights from Catholic,” she reflected. “This opportunity allowed me to strengthen my oral advocacy skills and grow as a budding litigator.”
Another standout aspect of her Catholic Law experience was the alumni network. “Catholic’s alumni network extends worldwide. They are all willing and able to talk with students, provide insights, and even connect you with other attorneys in different fields,” she noted. Events like Cardinal Weekend and Cardinals on the Hill gave her the chance to meet and learn from alumni who were eager to support current students.
As she prepares to graduate, Valentina is excited to continue her journey at Thomas, Thomas, and Hafer, LLP, the civil litigation firm where she interned during her 2L summer. Reflecting on her time at Catholic Law, she emphasized the enduring reasons why others should consider the school. “Professors and staff alike put so much effort and thought into making sure students thrive, both personally and professionally,” she said. “Despite our growing class sizes, professors still make an effort to learn everyone’s names and be available to talk and provide advice.”
Valentina also highlighted the strength of Catholic Law’s alumni network as a key reason to attend. “Our alumni span not only the United States but the world. They care about current students and want to make sure we succeed. Between panels, happy hours, and other events, our school is always filled with amazing alumni ready to provide a helping hand.”
For Valentina, Catholic Law was more than just a place to earn a degree—it was a community that nurtured her aspirations and prepared her to make a difference.