Anton Pettiford '28 is pursing a JD in the evening division.
Why do you want to attend law school?
"I want to attend law school to help low-income communities of color achieve justice. Justice, as means to achieve equity, continues to be an elusive concept in communities like mine. Decades of injustices in the criminal legal system, education, employment, and housing has had a devastating impact. History offers many examples of how the law can be weaponized to oppress the powerless and voiceless among us. On the other hand, law has also been employed by those who fight audaciously at the local, state, and federal levels to demand change. I am inspired by those men and women who learn the law and use it for the betterment of their community. I see myself in these social change agents. The people they fight for are the people I will fight for. The “people” are why I want to attend law school."
Why did you choose UConn Law?
"UConn’s affordability is unmatched compared to other law schools in the region. The financial aid office and other members of the admissions team were there for me at every step during the admissions process. They provided information about the unique funding opportunities available to supplement the cost of attendance. I was awarded both merit and institutional scholarships early in the admissions process, which allowed me to compare financial aid offers at other schools before ultimately making the decision to enroll at UConn. Additionally, I work full time during the day as an academic advisor at Connecticut State Capital in downtown Hartford, so I need the flexibility of a part-time evening program that only UConn can provide. What sealed the deal for me is knowing that, as a part-time evening student, I have access to the same world-class clinics and other experiential education opportunities as day division students."
How do you want to use your law degree?
"I would like to put my law degree to use in the service of my community. I have worked for various non-profits over the years and have had the pleasure of working to help improve the lives of people from all walks of life. Although I’ve succeeded in these roles, I feel that my ability to make a lasting impact in the lives of the people I’ve served has been limited due to the fact that I lack the power, resources, and authority to change the systems through which I have encountered them. My reach has not been as wide as I would like it to be. I will use my law degree to cast a wider net to help those who often fail to secure effective legal representation because they lack the financial resources to do so."
What was your path to law school?
"My path to law school was far from traditional. In fact, there is a 9-year gap between when graduated from the University of Hartford with a degree Criminal Justice and and my 1L year. I’ve learned more about myself during this time, and I am certain that now is the perfect time for me to strive for what has always been my goal. I am forever grateful for the support and guidance I received throughout my journey, and I will continue to pay it forward so others have access to the same opportunities."