<p><span class="p-body">There is no telling how many doors can open for students who pursue a&nbsp;<a href="/content/sps-nyu/explore/degrees-and-programs/ba-in-social-sciences.html" title="BA in Social Sciences">BA in Social Sciences</a>&nbsp;at NYU SPS. One thing is certain, however: alumni of the program always find themselves walking through the one that excites them the most. Rochelle Hestnas is a graduate of the program who has gone on to pursue a career in law, and we were excited to speak with her recently to see how she is applying her NYU SPS skills in this new chapter of her career.</span></p>

<p>Rochelle grew up in the Midwest but has called New York home for many years. As a current law student, her schedule leaves little time for hobbies, but she makes an effort to spend time in city parks. &quot;Spending time in nature reduces my stress,&quot; she says, noting that the parks offer the best natural escape the city has. When traveling, Rochelle gravitates toward wide, open spaces where she can take in the fresh, clean air—a stark contrast to the city's fast-paced lifestyle.</p>

<p>Rochelle's path to NYU was always clear. She arrived knowing she wanted to go to law school and had a strong interest in politics. Her decision to study at NYU came from her eagerness to dive into topics that would eventually support her law career. During her time at SPS, she was captivated by a sociology class that complemented her political studies, leading her to add sociology as a minor.</p> <p>Reflecting on her academic experience, Hestnas found NYU SPS to be both challenging and supportive, encouraging her to think critically and expansively.</p>

<p>One class, that explored wealth and income inequality, particularly resonated with her. &quot;I learned that lack of education closely correlates with serious health problems and, consequently, premature death,&quot; she explains, describing how this knowledge shaped her understanding of societal issues. Through courses taught by engaging professors, she gained a deeper clarity about the causes and consequences of economic inequality and the rise of populist movements.</p>

<p>Now in law school, Rochelle is navigating new academic challenges while staying focused on her career goals. She initially chose an evening law program to take full advantage of extracurricular opportunities that were harder to access during her time at NYU, when her children were younger. &quot;There were lots of activities I wanted to participate in, but I simply didn't have the time,&quot; she says, noting that she felt left out of part of the college experience. Now, she's taking full advantage of the richness of participation.</p> <p>Law school has presented unexpected challenges, particularly in terms of critical thinking. &quot;Critical thinking in law school means something very different than the kind I was engaged in while at NYU,&quot; she explains. In her legal studies, the focus is on evaluating the logic of a judge's reasoning rather than questioning the law itself. This contrasts with her time at NYU, where she was encouraged to critically assess societal structures. While this approach has required an adjustment, she remains hopeful that her future classes may allow for more critique and exploration of the law.</p>

<p>Despite the demanding nature of law school, Rochelle has embraced multiple roles that align with her desire to serve and lead. &quot;I can't believe I had a client my first year—a gender-based violence survivor—or that I'm a teaching assistant, on Fordham Law Review, and that I have a leadership position in the Student Bar Association,&quot; she shares. Balancing these roles with her academic performance and responsibilities as a single parent has not been easy, but it's an experience she's proud of.</p> <p>Rochelle views her academic path as a privilege, something she &quot;gets to do.&quot; Her drive and determination have also inspired those around her, including her sons. &quot;I get to go to law school and be a Mom and show my sons what it means to have a dream and go after it,&quot; she reflects. This perspective has helped her maintain a sense of gratitude, even when faced with the complexities of juggling school, extracurriculars, and parenting.</p>

<p><span class="p-body">Hestnas remains focused on what lies directly ahead of her, which currently means another year of classes, fulfilling her responsibilities, and working toward securing a judicial externship for the summer. Her future aspirations also involve using her legal education to serve others. &quot;Lawyers have power. I'd like to see that power used more thoughtfully and with an eye towards truly serving others,&quot; she says. She recalls a moment with Justice Sotomayor at an&nbsp;<a href="https://www.law.nyu.edu/" title="NYU Law">NYU Law</a>&nbsp;event, where the Justice highlighted the legal profession's duty to help those without resources. Rochelle believes this duty needs more attention and strives to make it a central part of her career.</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">Reflecting on her journey, Rochelle offers heartfelt advice for current and incoming NYU SPS students. &quot;Raise your hand and ask the question everyone else is already thinking,&quot; she urges. She also encourages trusting one's instincts: &quot;It rarely steers you wrong.&quot; Rochelle's path serves as a reminder that education is not just about the destination but also about finding the courage to pursue new dreams and directions along the way.</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">Ready to see what doors can open for you? Take the next step in your journey when you pursue a&nbsp;<a href="/content/sps-nyu/explore/degrees-and-programs/ba-in-social-sciences.html" title="BA in Social Sciences">BA in Social Sciences</a>&nbsp;at NYU SPS.</span></p>