Diversity Scholar Spotlight - Q&A with Priyank Patel
Priyank Patel has taken a winding path toward his destination of becoming an intellectual property attorney, from adapting to the tragic losses of those closest to him as a child, to studying psychobiology and conducting neuroscience research. Ultimately, he found he was captivated by trademark law.
Priyank is a co-founder of a First Generation Law Students Initiative at UCLA Law that offers first-generation students like him a place to find guidance as they pursue their law degrees.
Last summer, he worked at Salesforce and is looking forward to working at Fenwick & West LLP this summer. He lives by the saying, “Stay hungry. Stay humble.”
PracticePro
Where do you to see yourself professionally in 5 or 10 years from now?
Priyank
Furthering my experience and skills as a trademark lawyer.
PracticePro
Where are you working this summer (Summer 2018) and what are you hoping to accomplish during your internship?
Priyank
Fenwick & West LLP to improve writing, communication, networking, and other skills essential to practicing law.
PracticePro
What do you do for fun? Tell us one fun or interesting non-law related thing about yourself.
Priyank
I like to play basketball and football. I also enjoy watching both sports.
PracticePro
Tell us about a struggle or challenge you faced growing up, how you overcame it, and how it shaped who you are today.
Priyank
Losing my father-figure at an early age and losing my grandparents who played a pivotal role in raising me. From the adversity, I have learned not to take anything life gives me for granted. Even though they are not here to witness my rise to success, I am still motivated to work hard and make a positive impact in their name.
PracticePro
Tell us a quote or saying by which you live your life or the best life advice you ever received.
Priyank
Stay hungry. Stay humble.
PracticePro
What is the one accomplishment you are most proud of?
Priyank
My PracticePro Diversity Scholarship. This award gave me access to a network of top legal professionals who also share diverse characteristics and adverse experiences they overcame to succeed.
PracticePro
What is one thing you wish you had known before law school? Do you have any advice or book recommendations to incoming 1Ls to help them succeed or better handle the rigors of law school?
Priyank
Time management, preparation, anticipation, and networking. I don't have any books in mind, but one way to really succeed is to attempt practice exams and ask your professor for feedback in office hours. You only get one crack at your finals. Make sure you know what your professor is looking for.
PracticePro
What was your favorite law school experience -- one you would suggest other students look into?
Priyank
The student events that allow you to network with your fellow classmates who will likely be your colleagues in the future.
PracticePro
Tell us about a volunteer organization you are involved with and why it’s important to you.
Priyank
First Generation Law Students Initiative at UCLA Law. This organization gives other first generation students access to a safe space and network of students who they can approach when they need assistance or guidance.