I applied to law school knowing I wanted to work as a public defender, which is a relatively low-paying job compared to other legal career paths. That’s the main reason I chose Temple: the school’s generous financial aid, plus student loans, helped me feel secure in my plans to pursue this career after I graduate. I knew that the pressure of $300,000+ in loans might (reasonably!) pull me away from doing the job I am sure I want to do. Financial stress will always be there, but this clear goal helped me make big decisions about law school – where to apply and attend, what loans I could handle, and what opportunities to pursue in school. At Temple, I’ve found a supportive community of students and faculty who care about public interest work. The summer after 1L, I interned in the public defender office in Wilmington, DE which was a great learning experience. 2L spring, I participated in a clinic with the Defender Association of Philadelphia, which was the first time I got to represent clients …