Susan Yohe PLDIC Scholarship: 2024-2025 Recipients

University of Pittsburgh School of Law recipient: Miranda Schramm

Tell us a little about yourself. Where did you grow up, where did you go to college?
My name is Miranda Schramm, and I grew up in Hanover Township, Pennsylvania. I am currently pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science at Robert Morris University (RMU). During my time at RMU, I have held several leadership roles, including serving as President of the Pre-Law Society, Vice President of the Civic Education Series, and Secretary for both the Student Government Association and the Political Science Club. Additionally, I am enrolled in the Early Law School Admission Program, which allows me to transfer my first-year credits from the University of Pittsburgh School of Law back to RMU. Through this accelerated program, I will complete both my undergraduate degree and law school in just six years.

Why did you decide to go to law school?
Law school aligns perfectly with both my professional aspirations and my passion for knowledge. While I have not yet decided on a specific area of specialization, I am interested in various fields of law, including environmental, corporate, and general practice, as well as in pursuing a role as general counsel. Regardless of the specialization I ultimately choose, I am eager to use my legal career as a platform for driving meaningful change. Additionally, I have a deep appreciation for the pursuit of knowledge and am particularly enthusiastic about the rigorous academic challenges that law school will present.

What attracted you to Pittsburgh?
Having lived in the Greater Pittsburgh area my entire life, I have developed a profound appreciation for the city, especially its dynamic legal community and the University of Pittsburgh School of Law. The city offers an excellent environment for pursuing a top-notch education and advancing a career, while also providing a wealth of cultural experiences and entertainment. This combination of professional and personal enrichment makes Pittsburgh an ideal place for me to continue my academic and professional journey.

What are you most excited about doing in law school? In Pittsburgh?
At the University of Pittsburgh School of Law, I am eager to engage with the rigorous curriculum, apply my knowledge through summer associate positions, and participate in student organizations. My experience at Robert Morris University, where I thoroughly enjoyed legal courses focused on reading, briefing, and discussing cases, has prepared me well. I look forward to taking similar courses at a more advanced level and applying this knowledge effectively in my summer associate roles. Additionally, as someone who thrives in leadership positions, I am excited to join student organizations such as the Energy and Environmental Law Society and the Pitt Law Women’s Association.

The legal profession has historically had challenges with diversity, what are 2-3 things you wish law schools and legal employers would do better?
As a first-generation college student, I faced numerous questions during the law school admission process and often relied on friends who were in their first year of law school for answers. It would be beneficial if law schools developed a comprehensive guide specifically for first-generation college students, containing essential information. Such a resource could help alleviate imposter syndrome and bolster the confidence of first-generation students from the beginning of their legal education journey. While serving as President of the Pre-Law Society at Robert Morris University, I observed firsthand how much students valued interactions with law school admissions representatives. These visits provided valuable insights into the application process and the opportunities offered by various law schools. To reach a more diverse audience, I believe it would be advantageous for law schools to visit universities and deliver presentations about their programs. Such initiatives could effectively demonstrate that law school is an accessible path for anyone passionate about the law.

Who are your legal heroes?
Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg is remembered for her groundbreaking work in advancing gender equality and civil liberties, as well as for her sharp legal mind and strong dissenting opinions. Justice Ginsburg will forever be an excellent role model for women in law. The current governor of Pennsylvania, Josh Shapiro, has focused on advancements in economic development, education, healthcare, and the environment. With his leadership and professionalism, Governor Shapiro is shaping a brighter future for Pennsylvania and stands out as a prominent figure in modern governance.

Who is your favorite fictional lawyer?
Kim Wexler from Better Call Saul is my favorite fictional lawyer. She showcases exceptional legal skills and a profound understanding of the law. However, her inclination to
employ risky or unorthodox legal strategies occasionally results in negative consequences. Kim’s character illustrates the importance of exercising caution when considering unconventional approaches, even for highly skilled lawyers. While Kim is not without her flaws, her character provides valuable lessons for aspiring legal professionals.

Do you have anything else you want the Pittsburgh legal community to know about you?
Thank you to the Pittsburgh Legal Diversity and Inclusion Coalition for selecting me as a Susan Yohe Scholar. I am honored by this recognition and look forward to meeting all of you. I am open to discussing any potential opportunities. Please feel free to contact me at MAS1635@pitt.edu.

Thomas R. Kline School of Law of Duquesne University recipient: Nia Latham

Tell us a little about yourself. Where did you grow up, where did you go to college?
I grew up right here in Pittsburgh, PA, but I currently reside in Monroeville, PA! I attended Clarion University of Pennsylvania, which is now Pennsylvania Western University Clarion by merger with 2 other schools, Edinboro and CalU.

Why did you decide to go to law school?
During my senior year of college, I saw many of my peers studying for the LSAT and conducting their due diligence and research for their new educational journey and I
decided that now would be the best time to explore my options! I had always wanted to become a lawyer, and I knew from the age of 10 that I wanted to help others within the
legal field, and I just had to believe in myself and overcome any obstacles or fears I may have harbored at the time.

What attracted you to Pittsburgh?
Despite being born and raised here, I enjoy living in Pittsburgh, and the city life is great, plus my family and loved ones are here and they are my support system.

What are you most excited about doing in law school? In Pittsburgh?
The most exciting thing for me is meeting new friends, learning new things about myself, and adjusting to a different learning style.

The legal profession has historically had challenges with diversity, what are 2-3 things you wish law schools and legal employers would do better?
The legal profession, as well as other professions, have a lot of work to do when it comes to diversity and inclusion, but if I had to choose two or three items, I would pick recruitment and corporate inclusivity. Recruitment is pertinent in both law schools and professional settings, but it is almost shocking to see the statistics on racial diversity in law schools. To address this ongoing issue, I think law schools could do a better job of recruiting undergraduate students who are interested but don’t know how to get started. It is also important to take into account the various barriers minorities may encounter in this profession and to use the recruitment faculties to reach out to those students and to provide them with resources throughout their early journey into law school and, of course, throughout their entire tenure. It is essential for the legal profession to cultivate an environment that is inclusive for employees and clients. Providing all of your employees with a sense of belonging helps them harbor a sense of self, which allows them to be motivated, perform better, and be more productive.

Who are your legal heroes?
I do not have any legal “heroes” per se, but I do have a few people who inspire me to continue my legal journey and give me hope that I too can be an inspiration one day. The beautiful Kamala Harris deserves a special mention. She is currently busy with her presidential nomination, and I could not be happier to see a woman pushing herself forward to new heights and levels we have yet to accomplish. A great example of a woman of color breaking barriers is Kentaji Brown-Jackson of the Supreme Court, and of course I cannot forget the amazing Michelle Obama, who was my first role model and continues to inspire me.

Who is your favorite fictional lawyer?
I have one word for you: SUITS! It’s no secret that Harvey Specter is my favorite fictional lawyer from the hit TV series!

Do you have anything else you want the Pittsburgh legal community to know about you?
Last but not least, I am trying to better myself every day, and as a young adult, that’s no easy task! In this phase of my life, I want to actively strive to be the best version of myself, and I believe law school will help me become a kind, intelligent, and fearless woman.