Meet the Class of 2026: Alejandra Arboleda
Incoming 1L Alejandra Arboleda ’26 was born and raised in New Jersey, but her family is from Ecuador. She attended Rutgers University where she received her bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and minored in politics, philosophy, and economics. Prior to law school, Alejandra dedicated her time to multiple organizations that championed human, minority, and immigrant rights, and co-founded an organization, Esperanza, which allocates vital resources to support undocumented immigrants and their families within the tri-state area.
Welcome to Minnesota Law! Can you tell us why you chose the University of Minnesota Law School?
The warm and collegial environment at Minnesota Law captivated me, especially since I'm the first in my family to pursue education beyond high school. I firmly believe that having classmates who uplift rather than undermine is crucial for a fulfilling law school journey. Minnesota Law embodies the positive attributes that the legal field indeed requires.
How will scholarship support help you achieve your educational goals?
Thanks to the scholarship, the idea of attending law school has transformed from a distant dream into an achievable goal. This financial support not only relieves the burden of potential debt but also enables me to concentrate more fully on my studies and the path ahead in my career.
What are you looking forward to the most about starting law school?
I look forward to creating lasting connections with peers and professors. My aspiration is to make a resounding mark and achieve a level of success that becomes a beacon of hope for Latinos and other minorities. I want to demonstrate that in this changing world, the realm of possibilities knows no bounds.
Minnesota Law strives to embody a culture of equity, inclusiveness, and belonging in the classroom and in our community. What are some of the most important aspects of creating a culture where all students feel like they belong?
To cultivate a culture of belonging, it's essential to create an inclusive environment where diversity is celebrated, perspectives are valued, and everyone feels respected. This involves promoting open dialogue, providing diverse representation in curriculum and leadership and offering support services. Additionally, organizing inclusive events and promptly addressing bias incidents with transparency are crucial to embodying this culture.
Are you interested in practicing in a certain area of the law?
I am currently undecided, but I’m open to exploring various areas.
Do you have a hobby or special interests?
In my free time, I enjoy playing soccer, experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen, and delving into true crime documentaries. Additionally, I have a fondness for dancing to Latin music, particularly salsa and bachata.
Who inspires you and why?
My greatest source of inspiration is my mother, a woman of remarkable determination and work ethic. From a young age, she shouldered the responsibility of caring for her two younger sisters, fulfilling the roles of both a mother and father, all while nurturing her personal development. Sparked by my grandparents’ pursuit of the American Dream, this challenge came to fruition. Her capacity to step up, even during her early years when they depended on her, profoundly influenced her character and continues to inspire me.
What’s the most recent book or podcast you’ve read or listened to?
I recently read the memoir, Finding Me by Viola Davis.
What or who makes a good lawyer?
A good lawyer is someone compassionate, empathetic, honest, and understanding. They genuinely advocate for their client’s interests and tirelessly strive to assist them with their circumstances without exploiting their situation. These characteristics shouldn’t just manifest during working hours; they should extend to every facet of their everyday life. Ultimately, being a good lawyer necessitates being a good person first and foremost.
