Home: Roswell, New Mexico
UT Dallas Degree: BA – Political Science (magna cum laude), 2008
Profession: Attorney, Hinkle, Hensley, Shanor & Martin, L.L.P.
I currently practice in both state and federal courts, representing clients in oil and gas, land, employment, and other areas of commercial litigation in the natural resources industry.
Studying political science at UT Dallas helped me appreciate all the consequences the government’s policies can have on the private sector. When it comes to public policy and legislation, there are no easy answers. Having a solid educational background in the American political system gives me a more nuanced understanding of the law, and as a result I’m able to better advise and serve my clients.
While at UT Dallas I was a member and competed on UT Dallas’ Mock Trial and was also part of the university’s Mediation Team. In the Spring of 2007, I was selected as an Archer Fellow in the Bill Archer Fellowship Program in D.C. While in D.C., I worked for the American Bar Association.
After graduation, I went onto law school at the University of Oklahoma. While at OU, I was a member of the American Indian Law Review, competed on the university’s National Arbitration Team, received the American Jurisprudence Award in Criminal Law, and received a Pro Bono Service Award for my volunteer work in the Oklahoma County District Attorneys’ Office.
First and foremost, the faculty contributed most to my success. EPPS has an exceptional faculty that is passionate and exceedingly knowledgeable in their respective areas of expertise. The faculty endeavor to actually educate and inform students, not just fulfill certain academic curriculum.
At a very close second, the student body contributed to my success. The UT Dallas student body, and especially those within EPPS, is enthusiastic and committed to making the most out of the educational opportunities UT Dallas offers. The classrooms always welcomed passionate yet reasoned debate and the diverse student body contributed to a well-rounded education. Furthermore, UT Dallas offers fantastic flexibility within their programs and allows students to examine subjects of interest to them. For those who seek it, UT Dallas and EPPS offers students the opportunity to become leaders that have exceptional critical thinking skills and developed analytical abilities.
For a student, college is the time to increase your potential. Learn all you can about everything you can. As a student, you have the greatest opportunity to truly focus on your interests. Take the time to find what you enjoy and then dedicate yourself to becoming the best at it. Everything else will fall into place. Also, keep in mind that life doesn’t always go according to plan, so learn how to roll with the punches.