Tracey Nguyen

Tell us about yourself!

I was born and raised in outer east Portland. Growing up, my family went through periods of financial instability, but my mom never gave up on her dream of being a small business owner. After I graduated Portland State with a degree in public health, I was inspired by her hard work and confidence. I started my own small business, where I sourced local produce, processed it into dried fruit shaken with unique seasonings, and sold it at farmers markets. My business did not survive as long as my mom’s (which is still going strong). But while running it, and even afterwards, I found myself thinking that knowing more about the law would have helped in so many ways. That “knowing the law would help” thought came up in more and more contexts. I’m in law school because curiosity took over.

What made you want to go to law school?

I want to be an asset to Oregon’s small business community, and I think that studying the law will help me achieve that.

Why did you choose Lewis & Clark?

I love Portland. Lewis & Clark is gorgeous. A campus surrounded by trees. When you are in the throes of an internal tantrum (I’m being overdramatic), it really does help to walk into the forest, look at a banana slug, and breathe. Also, I appreciated the kindness of the students and staff/faculty who I met during campus visits.

Lewis & Clark has great opportunities for gaining practical experience. This year, I participated in PILP’s 1LIFE internship, which allowed me to work under a supervising attorney at a local legal resource clinic. It was an amazing experience. I am hoping to participate in the Small Business Legal Clinic sometime after my first year.

What’s your favorite class? Why?

I just wrapped up my first semester classes. My favorite was Torts with Professor Oleske. Tort cases often involve odd circumstances. I like how in our discussions, we focus in on the weird things, discuss related policy, and tie it back to the topic. It helps me remember the legal rules.

Tell us about your involvement and leadership with your student club/organization. How does this work complement your academic experience?

I am a 1L Rep for Lewis & Clark Asian Pacific American Law Student Association (APALSA) and Women’s Law Caucus (WLC). With APALSA, I went to this year’s National Asian Pacific American Bar Association Convention in Seattle, where I attended classes, workshops, and networking events, and participated in a career coaching program. WLC puts on great events, like Paint and Wine about Finals where students can make paintings and whine about finals over wine. I love being involved in these student organizations because there is a strong sense of community and collective support.

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

To first generation college grads now pursuing legal education: do not sell yourself short. You have myriad skills that are more relevant and in demand than you may realize. Sing your own praises and ask for what you need.