Attending law school is an undeniably tough endeavour, but Boston College Law School student Samantha Perlman proves it doesn’t have to be a barrier to public service. Perlman is not only managing her studies, but she’s also aiming to become mayor of her hometown, Marlborough, Massachusetts. This prominent link between the legal academia and political career was reported by National Jurist.
Perlman, currently pursuing a dual degree at Boston College Law School and Tufts University, is preparing for a career as a civil rights advocate, with a focus on voting rights and environmental justice. She sees a strong connection between open democracy, a healthy environment and her legal training. Perlman envisions her legal and civic roles working in tandem to promote voices that are commonly underrepresented, addressing crucial issues including housing access, affordability, transportation, and environment.
Perlman has voiced her gratitude towards her legal education claiming that it has enabled her to add greater value to the community that raised her. “Attending law school was about gaining additional skills to become a more nuanced and effective advocate in service to others,” she said. “I am grateful, too, that my legal education allows me to add further value to the community that raised me.”
Perlman’s confidence in balancing her studies with her demanding role in a political campaign is supported by her previous accomplishment. During her first semester of law school, she successfully ran for City Council, proving that even during an academically demanding period, public service is possible.
The optimism can be felt in her campaign statement as well, where she mentioned, “Do not let anyone tell you that you cannot do something. If you are willing to put in the work, ask questions and stay focused, you will be unstoppable.”
Samantha Perlman’s story offers hope and motivation to those who are on the edge of pursuing their public service aspirations whilst managing their rigorous academic life. By bridging the gap between her academic training and real-world execution, she is not only pioneering a unique path, but also proving to be an inspiring figure for fellow law students.
For more details about Samantha Perlman’s story, the full read is here.