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Criminology & Justice Studies, B.A. | Class of
Rosibeth Cuevas
JD Candidate
Employer: University of San Francisco School of Law
Job description: I am currently a law student at the University of San Francisco School of Law. Upon completing my legal studies I want to establish a criminal defense law firm that specializes in providing advocacy for disadvantaged populations in our society. My main commitment as a criminal law attorney is to reclaim the role in society of those who struggle with the repercussions of the war on drugs and the school-to-prison pipeline resulting in mass incarceration and no real solution.
About Rosibeth
Why did you choose this program?
As a woman of color growing up in South Los Angeles, I was expected to end up incarcerated or dead rather than a college graduate. This was a common occurrence among my peers as they became involved in gangs, drugs, and violence. Rather than trying to cover up where I come from, I believe that I can serve to dismantle the stigmas surrounding my community. Thus, I chose to embark on a path where I can help others and change the world by dismantling laws and policies that fuel the broken aspects of the criminal justice system. I was confident this program would fortify my desire to combat issues of racial disparities in the justice system.
How did this program prepare you for your job?
The sociology/criminology program prepared me both pedagogically and personally. When you see a bird that looks trapped by one bar you might think, “Why doesn’t it just fly around the bar?” However, it is not until you take a step back and see there are many bars intersected that have created a cage around this bird. This bird is trapped. Similarly, when a person has committed a crime, you must step back and look at all the bars that surround that person. Through this program I learned about the legal injustices and how attorneys can radically reform the laws and policies that underhandedly affect underprivileged communities of color. I learned how to step back and analyze the big picture, which I will use throughout my legal studies and career in law.
What did you enjoy most about the program?
What I enjoyed most about this program were the environment and the people. I could always count on any of the faculty or peers for support. This was crucial in overcoming imposter syndrome. It is invigorating when everyone treats you like you are an integral part of the program, especially when you feel like you do not belong or do not deserve to be there. The faculty genuinely want you to succeed and will go above and beyond to make sure that you do!
What would you say to prospective students who are thinking about applying to this program?
I would truly encourage any prospective student who has a desire to combat any social inequality to apply. Our society needs more people like us, regardless of what career you wish to pursue. You are not learning how to become a detective, police officer, or even an attorney. Rather you are learning about issues in our society that need people like you in those professions. We cannot change the world on our own, but we can change the world for those around us.