With the academic year underway, Colorado Law is excited to welcome our new students. Over the next few weeks, we will be highlighting some of our incredible 1Ls through a series of brief profiles. For our next 1L highlight, meet Julia O鈥橰ourke (she/her)听
Originally from Marion, Massachusetts, Julia most recently worked as an Assistant Dean of Admissions at Bowdoin College. She attended Bowdoin for undergrad, then did a Fulbright fellowship in South Korea and worked for College Advising Corps (AmeriCorps) before returning to work at Bowdoin.听
Meet the class of 2026鈥檚 Julia O鈥橰ourke!听
What inspired you to pursue a law degree?鈥�
JO: My Education Law professor in high school, George Isaacson, demonstrated how law can be a powerful tool for access. After working in the nonprofit and higher education realm for a few years, I could see how a legal education could help me further advocate for the folks I was encountering in the education system. While there were excellent services provided at the institutions I was working for, I am eager to generate equitable practices on a systemic level.听
What are your hobbies outside of work and school?鈥�
JO: My dog, Pippin, joins me for runs and hikes. I am in a fantasy football league with my brother and love to follow professional track and field. And baking is one of my favorite hobbies as well!听
Why did you choose鈥疌olorado鈥痩aw?鈥�
JO: I loved how collaborative the community seemed to be here. And many of my family members live in Colorado; I'm stoked to be near them!听
What are you most looking鈥痜orward to this upcoming academic year?鈥�
JO: I am excited to take in all sorts of knowledge about the legal system, key cases, and to meet fellow students!听
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