Tiffany Ngo

Student Spotlight: Tiffany Ngo, L’23

May 2, 2023
Tiffany Ngo, L’23, hopes to pave the way for future Asian American students, bridge the gap between cultural differences, and normalize minority representation in a field that is underrepresented.

As we celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, we’re sharing stories from some of our graduating 3L students. Like Tiffany Ngo, L’23, who is going from paralegal to workers’ compensation advocate. 

 

Why did you decide to attend law school? Why Richmond Law, in particular?

Becoming an attorney has been a dream of mine since I was a child. As the daughter of Vietnam War refugees, I saw first-hand how difficult it was for them to navigate a new country, let alone navigating its laws. I wanted to become someone who could help not only my parents, but others like them as well. After graduating from Virginia Commonwealth University, I started working in the Richmond legal field. Due to its inclusivity and support, I knew I wanted to start my career in here.

How has being a member of APALSA benefited your Richmond Law experience?

As an undergraduate at VCU, I was involved in an Asian-interest sorority. This sorority felt like a home away from home because I was surrounded by individuals with similar cultural values and upbringings. At Richmond Law, I similarly felt safe with APALSA and continued to be surrounded by others with similar visions of Asian American representation.

What are your career plans?

I see myself as an attorney defending clients with regards to workers’ compensation. Before law school, I was a paralegal in this sector and enjoyed every moment while also learning how the legal system worked. It would be fulfilling to come full circle and start my career in workers’ compensation.

May is Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. What does being an Asian American lawyer mean to you? What impact do you hope to make on the legal system after you graduate?

Being an Asian American lawyer means increasing Asian American representation and promoting diversity within the legal services industry. After I graduate, I hope to pave the way for future Asian American students, to help bridge the gap between cultural differences, and to normalize minority representation in a field that is underrepresented.

In one word, how would you describe your experience at Richmond Law?

Rewarding.

 

Transcript has been lightly edited for length and clarity.