Holly Pearson is originally from Tiburon, CA. She attended the University of California, Santa Barbara as an undergraduate. This summer she is working at the Cancer Legal Resource Center inLos Angeles.
Why did you choose law school, and why USF in particular?
I chose law school because I want the tools and knowledge to be able to help people in a visible, meaningful way. Knowledge is power, and I want to be able to educate those who are overwhelmed by the complexities of the legal system and do not know how to assert their rights or what rights they have in the first place. I chose USF because of its longstanding commitment to public service. I wanted to be surrounded by people dedicated to using the law to better the community.
What kind of work did you do this summer or what type of projects did you work on?
CancerLegalResourceCenter (CLRC) is a joint program of theDisabilityRightsLegalCenter and Loyola Law School Los Angeles that provides free information and resources on cancer-related legal issues to thousands of callers nationwide every year. As a law clerk, I provide direct client services by interviewing callers, conducting legal research, and drafting correspondence to address each caller’s particular situation. Some of the substantive legal issues I focus on include employment discrimination, insurance, and estate planning. Additionally, I will be conducting research for CLRC, examining everything from cancer legislation to insurance appeals for cancer patients to Medicaid, as well as representing the organization at community events in theLos Angeles area.
What do you find most inspiring about the work you are doing or the organization you are working for?
CLRC attorneys work tirelessly to address the legal issues of every caller, from the initial intake interview to the final follow-up letter. The organization is committed to helping those affected by a cancer diagnosis in their greatest time of need. Each caller receives not only an explanation of the applicable laws and legal resources in their area, but also a listening ear. I have been blown away by how grateful our callers are just to have someone take the time to hear their story and give them the free, honest information they deserve.
What would you like to do following law school?
My aspirations for the future are constantly changing, but I hope to be involved in developing and strengthening medical-legal partnerships between attorneys and health care professionals.
