Kate Dwyer withdrew from the bar exam when she knew she was not ready to take it. In this episode, Kate explains why she trusted her gut and avoided toxic positivity surrounding the bar exam. The bar exam is a gatekeeping exam that keeps the undesirable lawyers away from becoming an attorney. Listen to learn why Kate had to trust herself and how the bar exam affects your mental health.
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Kate Dwyer’s journey into the legal world began through her passion for advocacy and immigration justice. After college, she worked as a legal assistant for plaintiffs’ attorneys, where she gained hands-on experience in employment discrimination, Title IX, and wrongful death cases. This formative experience solidified her interest in systemic change and advocacy, motivating her to attend law school at Northeastern University.
"I wanted to engage with these issues on a systemic level, rather than on an individual level... I wanted to do something that would have a bigger impact," shares Kate Dwyer on You Are A Lawyer.
Kate’s background is rich with practical legal experience, from managing complex cases as a paralegal to tackling immigration law challenges. Her current role as a public interest fellow reflects her commitment to social justice and systemic reform, all while encouraging others to embrace non-traditional paths in law.
Kate’s decision to pursue law school was fueled by her desire to address systemic injustices she witnessed firsthand. Working with international students and hearing their struggles with immigration laws sparked a sense of helplessness and frustration that inspired her to take action. Law school became a way for Kate to combine advocacy with systemic change, pushing her to engage with broader legal issues beyond individual cases.
"I wanted to engage with these issues on a systemic level... and I wanted to do something that was going to have a bigger impact," reflects Kate Dwyer on Episode 173 of You Are a Lawyer.
Despite early resistance to the idea of becoming a lawyer, Kate recognized the power of a legal education to equip her with the tools needed to make a difference. Her path wasn’t just about prestige or money; it was about stepping into a position where she could influence change, advocate for clients, and challenge inequitable systems.
Kate believes that a law degree offers unparalleled versatility and the opportunity to build a career that reflects your values. While traditional roles like practicing attorney remain common, Kate highlights the importance of exploring JD-advantage careers, like her role as a public interest fellow. These opportunities allow lawyers to leverage their legal skills in areas like project management, advocacy, and systemic reform without following a rigid path.
"I’ve been pleasantly surprised at how many jobs are out there where my law degree helps me bring something different to the table," explains Kate Dwyer, on this episode of You Are a Lawyer.
For Kate, a law degree isn’t confined to the courtroom; it’s a tool for creating change, managing meaningful projects, and addressing real-world problems. By combining legal training with creativity and adaptability, lawyers can thrive in roles that break traditional molds and align with their passions.
Kate’s journey demonstrates that a legal career doesn’t have to follow a straight path. By stepping back from the bar exam and prioritizing her well-being, she opened herself up to non-traditional roles that still utilize her legal education. For lawyers and law students alike, Kate’s story highlights the value of exploring JD-advantage jobs or side hustles that provide fulfillment outside of traditional practice.
“There are jobs out there where my law degree is not going to waste, but actually helping me bring something different to the table,” shares Kate Dwyer in Episode 173 of You Are a Lawyer.
Lawyers can combine their passions and practical skills to create meaningful careers without sacrificing their mental health. Whether it’s advocacy, public interest work, or project management, Kate encourages others to trust themselves and seek out roles that align with their values and aspirations.
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Kate Dwyer is not licensed to practice law.
Kyla Denanyoh hosts the You Are A Lawyer podcast.
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