Written by: WSCL Marketing Team
Exploring Careers in Immigration Law
On Thursday, March 20, 2025, Western State College of Law brought together students, alumni, and practicing attorneys for “Careers in Immigration Law: Panel & Mixer.” The lively event was focused on one of today’s most important legal fields. The event was organized by the Immigration and Deportation Defense Clinic, Latinx Law Student Association (LLSA), Asian Pacific American Law Student Association (APALSA), OUTLaw, Career Development Office, and Office of Alumni Relations. Hosted on campus, the evening gave attendees the opportunity to learn from experienced professionals and connect with one another.
The panel featured Western State alumni Hesley Gonzalez (Class of 2024) and Jimmy Pham (Class of 2009), as well as immigration attorneys Megan Guzman and Jennifer Vazquez Macias. The discussion, led by Dean Marisa Cianciarulo, addressed recent changes in immigration law and the evolving challenges professionals in the field are navigating today. In addition, panelists shared their career paths and experiences, offering students valuable insight into immigration law.
Student Leaders Take the Lead
Student leaders played a key role in the event’s success. Maria Campos Tello and Emeli Navarro, both 3Ls and Co-Presidents of LLSA, took the lead in organizing and co-hosting the panel and mixer. Astrid Cardona, a 3L and Secretary of LLSA, secured sponsorships for the event. Maria reflected on the value of reconnecting with alumni. She emphasized the importance of giving students a chance to learn from those who were once in their shoes. “It shows that we have graduates from Western State who have passed the bar and contribute to the community in many different ways.”
Maria also emphasized the importance of hosting events like this on campus. She pointed out that part-time and commuting students often cannot attend off-site events. “It was really important to bring the event on campus to make these essential networking opportunities accessible to all the students,” she said.
Emeli said that student-led planning ensured the event reflected the needs of their peers. She explained that many students are unable to attend weekend events. Emeli noted that holding it on a Thursday was strategic, ensuring that students would already be on campus. “We knew we needed to bring the networking opportunity here because students often cannot attend these events. And it’s so important for them to have the opportunity to build these connections.”
Emeli shared how the panel reignited her passion for immigration law, demonstrating how the event inspired students, even those currently focused on other legal fields, to engage with this critical area of practice. “The theme of the event was that knowledge is power, and it solidified that this is a topic I want to continue learning about,” she shared. “As a Latina and a future lawyer, I want to be in the know about everything, especially since it directly affects our community.”
Building Community Through Advocacy and Networking
Astrid Cardona played a major role in the success of the event. She secured generous sponsorships from Fontes Law Group, the AILA Southern California Chapter, and the Hispanic Bar Association of Orange County (OCHBA). “It was an enriching experience that allowed me to engage deeply with the legal community,” Astrid said. “I had the privilege of connecting with esteemed immigration law practitioners through my efforts securing these sponsorships and guest speakers.”
Astrid also highlighted how critical networking events like these are for the future careers of law students. “They provide unique opportunities to learn directly from experienced professionals in the field,” she explained. The event was also a powerful reminder of what can happen when a community comes together. “I realized that change doesn’t just come from policymakers or courts. It can also come from community support and collective advocacy.”
The panel room was filled to capacity, and the subsequent mixer saw active engagement among attendees. Students received advice on careers in immigration law from the panelists and made important lasting connections.
Western State is proud to host events like these. They not only connect current students with legal professionals but also provide valuable insights and foster a sense of community. This reaffirms the school’s commitment to shaping the next generation of lawyers and changemakers.
