Together — Building Pathways for the Next Generation

Querida Comunidad, 

The Hispanic Pre-Law Society (HPLS) was established with the mission of disseminating pre-law resources and equipping the next generation of leaders, attorneys, Supreme Court clerks, policy-makers, and professionals in the legal field. While we aim high, we do not forget that the memories we make and friendships we nurture along the way matter just as much.

The heart of HPLS is its members. Some of you won prizes during Jeopardy nights, others gained insights from the many fireside chats and panels we hosted — and some of you built lasting mentorships with Columbia Law School students. No matter the case, we enjoyed your company.

We came to campus to serve — and you met us con todo el amor del mundo. Thanks to you, dear reader, we’ve worked to build something bigger than ourselves. A movement.

This year, we launched our first-ever Mentorship Program with Columbia Law School’s LaLSA, pairing thirteen mentors with twenty five mentees. We built our Lending Library from the ground up with ten LSAT prep books, thanks to our partner Kaplan’s support. We hosted eight guest speakers — including The Walt Disney Company’s Chief Legal and Compliance Officer and former UNICEF General Counsel — who reminded us just how far Latines can go. We hosted Spanish Legal Jeopardy Nights (yes, it got intense), collaborated with over five student organizations, laminated 1,000 Know-Your-Rights cards with SOL, and offered free headshots to help you show up professionally, proudly, and authentically. Our website went live. HPLS received official University recognition. And now, we’re publishing fresh pieces for The Review.

We look ahead to the next academic year and beyond with excitement, our commitment to excellence, scholarship, and the pursuit of a better future remains steadfast. We’re working hard to expand our efforts and create more opportunities. As a valued member, you’ve probably noticed that HPLS doesn’t just host events — we launch programs, spark dialogue, keep our promises, and build a legacy. The results speak for themselves. 

But más que nada, we create and take up space. For each other. For the next generation. For the future.

Now more than ever, when HPLS is growing and sustaining its momentum, we need your voice, your presence, and your power to keep this great initiative alive. Stay plugged in, stay vocal, and stay committed. You are the essence of HPLS.  

We will see you next semester – bigger, better, and bolder. More to come soon. 

Con cariño,

José Caballero and Mariley Melo

Co-Editor-in-Chiefs, The Columbia Hispanic Pre-Law Review

Daniela Doyle Rizzo and Victoria Buendia-Serrano

Co-Presidents, Columbia Hispanic Pre-Law Society