Kelsey Robinson, JD

Undergraduate institutions attended and degrees earned
Loyola University of Maryland – Bachelor of Arts in Psychology

Other graduate institutions attended and degrees earned
University of Maryland – Master of Social Work

Dual degree obtained or in progress
JD/MSW

Extracurricular and co-curricular activities
Criminal Defense Clinic: Student Attorney
Maryland Law Review: Staff Editor, Notes and Comments Editor
Criminal Law Association: 1L Rep, Secretary, Co-President

Post-graduation plans
Clerking for the Honorable Judge Nazarian on the Maryland Court of Special Appeals.

Finish this sentence: I could not have gotten through this experience without…
The unwavering support of my family and friends.

What did you learn about yourself while earning this degree?
I learned that I will not back down on the causes and issues I’m passionate about. I learned that I am more capable than I often think I am. I also learned that arguing is fun!

Who was your favorite professor and why?
Professor Maneka Sinha has challenged me to become the lawyer I want to be. Maneka’s passion is contagious and her dedication to fighting the good fight is inspiring. I am grateful to call Maneka my mentor and look forward to the day when I get to call her my public defender colleague. Maneka, thanks for always being in my corner!

What was your favorite class and why?
The Criminal Defense Clinic. My experience as a student attorney was undoubtedly the most meaningful part of law school. While developing litigation skills, working on real-life cases and gaining practical experience is invaluable, the Criminal Defense Clinic was so much more than that for me. I learned what it truly means to engage in client-centered lawyering. I learned the importance of collaboration and partnership. I learned that I am capable of advocating on another individual’s behalf, that I have what it takes to become a public defender.

Write a message.
To my current and future clients, thank you for trusting me and always reminding me why I came to law school. I promise to never stop fighting.

To my professors, thanks for paving the way and instilling in me a passion to learn and practice the law.

To Mom and Dad, thank you for your endless love, support, and encouragement on this journey. Because of you, I am where I am today, pursuing my dreams and achieving my full potential.

To Patrick and Sarah, hearing you say the words “we’re proud of you” gave me the energy I needed to keep moving forward. Thanks for always believing in me.

To Grandma, thank you for always standing behind me and being such a guiding light in my life.

To my classmates, we did it! Thank you for keeping me sane. I am so proud to call you my classmates and future colleagues.