Hannah Eaton-Brenner

Brief Background:

After I graduated from high school in 2019, I attended Clackamas Community College for a year before transferring to Lewis & Clark College. During the spring semester of my first year of college the COVID-19 pandemic began but, despite the pandemic, I decided to transfer to Lewis & Clark College the next fall and attended classes remotely. It wasn’t until my junior year that I was able to attend classes on campus (with protective guidelines in place) and engage with the community. In 2023, after a presidential election, pandemic lockdowns, and other historic events, I finally graduated from Lewis & Clark College, cum laude, with a bachelor’s degree in sociology and anthropology. The next fall I started at Lewis & Clark Law School.

What made you want to go to law school?

It wasn’t until high school that I really started to consider law school. Early in my academic career I really struggled with reading and writing because I have Dyslexia. I had always viewed law school as something that I could strive for, but would not necessarily be able to achieve, due to having Dyslexia. When I reached high school I began to develop more confidence academically and slowly realized that I might be able to attend law school. As my academic career progressed, I developed more self-confidence. During the same time, I started to work at my mother’s family law firm and recognized how much I enjoyed family law. As time went on, I gained more appreciation for the legal field and decided that I wanted to become a lawyer to help those in need. Throughout college, I focused my studies on what was necessary or helpful to apply to law school.

Why did you choose Lewis & Clark?

My undergraduate experience was a large factor in deciding to attend Lewis & Clark Law School. During my undergraduate time at Lewis & Clark College, numerous unprecedented historical events occurred which have changed our our nation in nearly every aspect. Despite the difficult times, Lewis & Clark seemed to always provide a supportive, collaborative environment. So, when it came time to apply to law schools, I knew Lewis & Clark Law School would be my top choice.

What’s your favorite class? Why?

I really enjoyed Professor Martel’s Advanced Legal Writing. While it never occurred to me that I would enjoy writing, I found myself really enjoying his course and the practical skills it taught me.

Tell us about your involvement and leadership with the Disability Allied Law Student Association and Phi Alpha Delta. How does this work complement your academic experience?

I became involved with Phi Alpha Delta (PAD) and Disability Allied Law Student Association (DALSA) during my 1L year. For PAD, I started as a 1L representative and was later elected to serve as the vice president. Through PAD, I have been able to network with people I likely would not have encountered otherwise. For DALSA, I started as a club member and ultimately became the club treasurer. Through DALSA, I have been able to learn how to better advocate for myself and for other students. I have also become a member of the curriculum committee through DALSA and am able to advocate for the best interest of students. Both PAD and DALSA have provided me with a diverse network of people who have the common goal of student success.

How has Lewis & Clark changed you?

Lewis & Clark has changed me in more ways than I can describe. Lewis & Clark undergrad helped prepare me for law school by challenging me academically and providing personal support. Lewis & Clark Law School has helped (and continues to help) shape me into someone who thinks like a lawyer and has the analytical skills necessary to enter the professional sphere of law.

What is your favorite thing about living in Portland?

Since I am from Oregon, I cherish having my family and close friends nearby. I also LOVE the beautiful landscapes the PNW has to offer (beaches, mountains, and deserts)

Do you have any advice for students making their final law school choices?

I think choosing a law school is difficult and can cause lots of anxiety. However, I believe that all things happen for a reason and people tend to know what is best for their particular personal situation. For example, I chose Lewis & Clark because of its proximity to family and friends, its academic ranking, and its overall atmosphere. It is important to rely on your gut and listen to diverse opinions from trusted people.

What was the hardest thing about adjusting to law school?

The hardest part of adjusting to law school was the time commitment for reading and studying. While my undergraduate education was challenging at times, it did not require near the time commitment that is required for success in law school. I struggled, and continue to struggle, to balance my studies and personal life. I believe finding that balance will be something I struggle with throughout law school and into my legal career.

What is your favorite spot on campus?

I really enjoy the library because I am able to be productive and get work done, while also being able to interact with other students.

Were you considering any other schools or programs besides Lewis & Clark? What set L&C apart?

While Lewis & Clark Law School was always my top choice, I also considered attending Willamette Law School. My decision to attended Lewis & Clark over Willamette was due to the beauty of Lewis & Clark’s campus, the outstanding reputation of the program, the central location of the campus, and the overall feeling of collaboration.

Do you have any other stories, comments, or experiences you would like to share?

During my first semester of law school, my family struggled through the loss of my aunt, Sarah, who played a vital role in all of our lives. I had been raised with Sarah, through many trials and tribulations related to her being born with Down syndrome and suffering myriad health complications. Recognizing that I was struggling, several members of the student body and faculty reached out and offered to help in any way they could. I was shocked that anyone recognized that I was struggling and took time out of their busy schedule to offer help, particularly when they were under similar academic stresses.