Ambassadors
Meet our ambassadors. Learn about their experiences with our academic programs, student organizations and events, or law school community.
Julie Attinger
Student Ambassador
Boise 3L
Hometown: Meridian, Idaho
Undergrad School: University of Idaho
Student Orgs: Women's Law Caucus, Animal Legal Defense Fund
Why Idaho?
I chose the U of I College of Law because of the opportunities they offer and the connections they have to careers in Idaho.
What advice would you offer to incoming 1Ls?
Advice I would offer to incoming 1L Law Students is to not be afraid to reach out for help. Law school can be very overwhelming the first few months but, there are so many people who are willing to assist and help as you transition.
Favorite Boise recommendation?
My favorite Boise recommendation is to check out Hyde Park. It is a quaint neighborhood with a street full of coffee shops, restaurants, and breweries. It’s great for studying on the weekdays but also grabbing a bite on the weekends.
Erin Bangs
Student Ambassador
Moscow 3L
Hometown: Salem, Oregon
Undergrad School: Portland State University
Student Orgs: Student Bar Association, Agricultural Law Society, Women’s Law Caucus, Native American Law Student Association, Criminal Law Society, Latino/a Law Caucus
Why Idaho? I fell in love with Boise during my first visit a few years ago. Ending up in Moscow was an unplanned but fortunate turn of events and I feel lucky to be here.
What advice would you offer to incoming 1Ls? Figure out what your needs are and maintain boundaries to protect them. You’re embarking on a very rigorous and stressful academic journey. It’s okay to be selfish with your time while you navigate the new challenges.
Favorite Moscow recommendation? Check out the Arboretum if you want to get outside and go for a walk. Mikey’s is a great inexpensive option for a lunch or dinner gyro. The Lookout bar and restaurant overlooks the golf course and does trivia nights now. Silos & Social is a cute coffee spot near campus and has great pastries. The Saturday Market. Craft Artbar and Studio is fun for a wine + paint night.
Samantha Bertagnolli
Student Ambassador
Moscow 2L
Hometown: Spokane, Wash.
Undergrad School: University of Portland
Student Organizations: Student Bar Association, Older Wiser Law Students, Women’s Law Caucus
Why Idaho? I was drawn to U of I and specifically the Moscow campus for the small class sizes and strong community of people. I had already been living in Moscow and working at the University the year prior to starting at UofI Law and it was great to become a student at a school I already knew I loved being at.
What advice would you offer to incoming 1Ls? Use supplements during the year, don’t wait until a week before the final to start watching Themis videos and doing multiple choice.
Favorite Moscow recommendation? In Moscow, Patty’s is the best spot in town! Get the Carne Asada Fries!
Ivan Castillo
Student Ambassador
Boise 3L
Hometown: Nampa, Idaho
Undergrad School: University of Idaho
Student Organizations: Latino/a Law Caucus
Why Idaho? I love being a part of the Vandal family and I had such an amazing experience at the undergraduate level that I only knew the same would be true for law school.
What advice would you offer to incoming 1Ls? Be nice to yourself. It is so easy to get caught up in the competitiveness that exists in this setting and to compare yourself to your peers. At the end of the day, you can only do the best you can and what works best for your own needs.
Favorite Boise recommendation? One thing I love about Boise is the variety of things to do here. If you are an outdoors person, there are numerous parks and places to hike nearby or enjoy water activities. If you love to have a beverage, there are many breweries and drink offerings located downtown. The size of Boise makes it so there are things to do without feeling overwhelmed by the number of options.
Alyxis Cederstrom
Student Ambassador
Boise 2L
Hometown: Twin Falls, Idaho
Undergrad School: Idaho State University
Student Organizations: Criminal Law Society, Women’s Law Caucus, ITLA, Debate Society
Why Idaho? I grew up here and wanted to stay in Idaho. The community here is unmatched, and the price was great as well.
What advice would you offer to incoming 1Ls? Take everything one step at a time. Things may seem overwhelming at first, but if you attack it one issue at a time, it will be easier to solve the problem.
Favorite Boise recommendation? Flying M has amazing coffee! And it is within walking distance from the school.
Hannah Clark
Student Ambassador
Boise 3L
Hometown: Kent, Washington
Undergrad School: Evergreen State College
Student Orgs: National Lawyers Guild, American Civil Liberties Union, OUTLaw
Why Idaho?
I chose the University of Idaho because I wanted to attend a smaller university where the students and faculty cared about each other. Everyone here really wants you to succeed. Additionally, by being the only law school in the state, we have a ton of unique opportunities. The Vandal Alumni network is strong and when you come to this school you immediately become part of a large, supportive family.
What advice would you offer to incoming 1Ls?
Set some boundaries for yourself. Figure out a study schedule and make sure that you have free time for your hobbies and hanging out with your friends/family. It’s easy to completely dive into law school but it’s important to make sure you have tools in place to help you avoid burnout!
Favorite Boise recommendation?
My favorite thing to do during the summer in Boise is float the river! I also love to walk my dog at Harrison Hollow and grab a drink at The Royal afterwards.
Brandon De Paz
Student Ambassador
Boise 3L
Hometown: Elizabeth, New Jersey
Undergrad School: Rutgers University
Student Orgs: Latino/a Law Caucus, OUTLaw
Why Idaho?
I chose the U of I College of Law because its location, affordability, and experiential learning opportunities. As an out-of-state student, U of I College of Law staff and faculty provided the support early on to make the transition possible. The open door policy fostered by the faculty allows for effective communication and a comfortable environment to receive feedback on the course material. The smaller class sizes allow collaborative learning and a strong feeling of community.
What advice would you offer to incoming 1Ls?
My advice is to become comfortable early on with trying new methods of studying. Law school requires students to unpack course material beyond the traditional classroom expectation. Take advantage of your professor’s office hours. They are your biggest advocates and best resources.
Favorite Boise recommendation?
My favorite Boise recommendation is a coffee date at Alchemist Coffee. Great coffee, a relaxing aesthetic, and even live music on Thursdays!
Josh Diaz
Student Ambassador
Moscow 3L
Hometown: Santa Ysabel, California
Undergrad School: Western Oregon University
Student Orgs: Criminal Law Society, Academic Success Fellow, Civil Procedure
Why Idaho?
My choice mainly centered around cost, and U of I Law is the most affordable, greatest value program I could find. It is also the only school in the state of Idaho and therefore, gives students unprecedented access to every level of the judiciary, from Magistrate court to the Idaho Supreme Court.
What advice would you offer to incoming 1Ls?
Law school is very different from undergraduate programs. Be prepared to switch your way of thinking, your classroom presence, and your approach to academia.
Favorite Moscow recommendation?
There is so much to do at the Student Recreation Center in Moscow. Whether you like pickleball, volleyball, working out, intermural sports, the SRC offers many programs and activities. I found the SRC to be the best way to spend time with friends while also enabling academic excellence through exercise.
Arman Entezar
Student Ambassador
Moscow 3L
Hometown: Coeur d'Alene, Idaho
Undergrad School: Brandeis University
Student Orgs: NALSA
Why Idaho?
Close to home and excellent commitment to Native American Law and communities.
What advice would you offer to incoming 1Ls?
Be flexible in developing your study style and habits.
Colton Hansen
Student Ambassador
Boise 2L
Hometown: Dayton, Nev.
Undergrad School: Boise State University
Student Organizations: National Lawyers Guild, American Civil Liberties Union, Idaho Trial Lawyers Association
Why Idaho? Initially, I chose the U of I in Boise because I had recently settled here, and I fell in love with the area and didn’t want to leave. However, after talking to a student ambassador, I was excited to find out that the school has many great opportunities such as the clinics for 3Ls, and I was excited to attend here and experience that kind of an academic setting.
What advice would you offer to incoming 1Ls? Take time for yourself, your hobbies, and for a social life. Law School is an incredibly demanding academic setting, and having an outlet that takes your mind off the classes will make it much more enjoyable. I always invite people to go climbing with me at the climbing gym, because it is a good mix of problem solving and physical activity that lets you enjoy the moment without worrying about the next class.
Favorite Boise recommendation? My favorite taco truck, Big Beantz, shows up to Mother Earth brewing on Tuesdays. It is only a few blocks from the school, and a great place to hang out and socialize after class.
Madison Leeman
Student Ambassador
Boise 3L
Hometown: Twisp, Washington
Undergrad School: Washington State University
Student Orgs: Women's Law Caucus, Outside the Law
Why Idaho?
I love Boise, especially the access to all things outdoors. I knew I wanted to really appreciate where I was living while in law school, and Boise provided an opportunity to do all the things I love to do. I also felt like the students and professors I interacted with were excited to be here, and enjoyed what they were doing everyday.
What advice would you offer to incoming 1Ls?
To set one day, or even half a day, every week, where you don’t do school. It’s so easy to devote all of your free time to school, but I always feel more productive after spending an afternoon outside away from my books and computer. Also- don’t waste time on social media.
Favorite Moscow recommendation?
I love trail running in the foothills! There are so many great options for mountain biking, trail running, or just hiking.
Gabriella Pisani
Student Ambassador
Boise 2L
Hometown: Miami, Fla.
Undergrad School: University of Miami
Student Organizations: Lation/a Law Caucus, Environmental Law Society
Why Idaho? The quality of life, the impressive faculty of professors, and the price of education.
What advice would you offer to incoming 1Ls? First, I want to emphasize the importance of being intentional and structured with your time; time management is the key to your academic success; in essence, work smart, not hard. Second, get comfortable with being uncomfortable. Be open and receptive to pivoting when things don’t work out the first time; trial and error paired with consistency will help you refine your skills. I also highly recommend meeting with your professors during student hours; they will guide you through this process. Third, law school is a unique and individualized experience; you don’t know what people are going through, so don’t define yourself by other people’s failures or successes. Lastly and most importantly, try to enjoy law school and have fun, make friends, and build community because it is a privilege we only experience once.
Favorite Boise recommendation? My favorite Boise recommendation is the local music venue, the “knitting factory.” They have so many new artists coming through town year-round. However, if you like the outdoors, paddle boarding the Boise River near Lucky Peak State Park is beautiful and the perfect environment for a mental health break.
Bella Rupe
Student Ambassador
Boise 3L
Hometown: Payette, Idaho
Undergrad School: Boise State University
Student Orgs: Animal Legal Defense Fund
Why Idaho?
I immediately felt supported by the staff and faculty when I attended the prospective student seminars. It’s also accessible and affordable with great professors to learn from.
What advice would you offer to incoming 1Ls?
Everyone in your class is new to law school too, don’t be afraid to ask for help from staff and faculty. Take advantage of professor office hours, not only is it important to connect with your professors, but they are always happy to help clarify any class subjects you are confused about.
Favorite Moscow recommendation?
Trying local coffee shops, hikes, and breweries.
Leslie Sixtos-Cruz
Student Ambassador
Moscow 2L
Hometown: Salt Lake City, Utah
Undergrad School: Utah State University and Utah Valley University
Student Organizations: Student Bar Association, Latino/a Law Caucus, Criminal Law Society, Women’s Law Caucus, Older Wiser Law Students
Why Idaho? I specifically chose to attend U of I College of Law because of the immigration clinic it offers. It is the perfect way to enhance my career in immigration law. The school is also close enough to home to visit during breaks and far enough to independently focus on my education. Finally, the cost of tuition is low compared to almost any school in the nation. I still would not choose another school to attend. My time in Moscow has been immaculate.
What advice would you offer to incoming 1Ls? Take breaks – every day, every week, every weekend. Prioritize 8 hours of sleep – you’ll need to recharge. Eat enough to keep yourself fueled and stay hydrated. I cannot stress the smallest things enough. They matter and will make the difference in how you commit to your studies. Above all else, practice the mentality that you have what it takes to reach your educational and career goals. You truly got this; you belong!
Favorite Moscow recommendation? The Breakfast Club – best lemon poppyseed pancakes! And Panhandle Cone & Coffee – best ice cream!
Kody Smoot
Student Ambassador
Boise 2L
Hometown: Pocatello, Idaho
Undergrad School: Boise State University
Student Organizations: Environmental Law Society, Federalist Society, Chess Society
Why Idaho? I am Idaho born and raised, and I have no intention of moving away from Idaho. I love the State, and I chose U of I because it offers a great education and connections to practicing attorneys who also graduated from Idaho. It was never a debate for me, if I got accepted into the U of I, that is where I was going to go. I am very happy with my decision.
What advice would you offer to incoming 1Ls? 1) Treat law school like a job. Some days students may need to put in 8 hours or more to stay on top of things, while other days may be less than 8 hours. Get to the school 20-30 minutes before your first class and review the material you will be going over in class and have something prepared in case you are cold called. 2) Take class notes in a different color than the notes you took before class. I always write my notes and case briefs in black but add red notes during class so I can tell what I took from cases and what the professors want you to take from the material. 3) Make friends and help each other out. There are going to be days when you missed a case from the reading or just did not want to do it. Make friends with others and share notes (if permissible) so that when something does come up, you can still be somewhat prepared for class. Having a study group has helped me clarify some big ideas and make friends, but they don’t work for everyone. I have found that having someone to talk to about legal writing is very important as well.
Favorite Boise recommendation? If you enjoy challenging hikes and the outdoors, I recommend doing the Cervidae Trail hike. It’s tough, but the view overlooks Lucky Peak, and it is a good workout. As far as food or fun goes, I live in the North End and Parilla in Hyde Park is always a good environment with good food.
Melissa Svancara
Student Ambassador
Moscow 2L
Hometown: Clarkston, Wash.
Undergrad School: Arizona State University
Student Organizations: Older Wiser Law Students, Native American Law Student Association, Criminal Law Society, Latino/a Law Caucus
Why Idaho? I live in the Lewis-Clark Valley, about forty minutes from Moscow and because I have grown up in Washington and Idaho, I wanted to attend a law school that was closer to home.
What advice would you offer to incoming 1Ls? First, get yourself organized. Have a daily schedule and stick to it. It might be easy to get distracted during the first semester but try to stay focused. I had time set aside for each task and that helped me stay on course, otherwise, this can be overwhelming. Second, do the readings. You will get behind if you skip them. Try to be prepared to be called on. If you are feeling somewhat confident that you know the answer to a question the professor is asking, raise your hand, but not too much. No one is judging you and everyone else is probably feeling anxious too. Third, get enough sleep. I made sure to stick to my schedule and would not study past a certain time because sleep is important! If you are sleep deprived, you have less energy, you might be crabby and you won’t be able to focus. Lastly, make sure to calendar everything. I had some trial and error with this and missed a few meetings because I forgot to put them on my calendar. The first year is a bit overwhelming but if you are organized, it will be easier to manage.
Favorite Moscow recommendation? Lodgepole in Moscow is delicious if you want a fancy meal. But if you want to get some air, take a drive, the Palouse and surrounding area are beautiful. If you have kids old enough to jump on a trampoline, Flying Squirrel is a fun place.
Michel Terry
Student Ambassador
Moscow 3L
Hometown: Coeur d’Alene, Idaho
Undergrad School: University of Idaho
Student Organizations: Law Review
Why Idaho? I’m from Idaho, I attended the University of Idaho for undergrad, and I love Moscow. There was no other law school I considered, the affordability, both of the tuition and of cost of living, made it an obvious choice.
What advice would you offer to incoming 1Ls? Don’t be afraid to get things wrong. On my first day, in my first class, I somehow mixed up the majority opinion and dissent opinion so every single one of my notes was wrong. While I might have looked silly for that class, I never mixed-up which opinion is which again. You’ll learn from everything you do, even the mistakes.
Favorite Moscow recommendation? The arboretum on the south side of campus is the perfect place to decompress. Just a five-minute walk from the law school, you can stretch your legs and immerse yourself in the natural habitat of an Idaho forest in the old arb. Another five minutes and you can find yourself in the new arb and see species of plants from across the globe.
Ari Woodyard
Student Ambassador
Moscow 3L
Hometown: Lava Hot Springs, Idaho
Undergrad School: Boise State University
Student Orgs: Student Bar Association, OUTLaw, American Constitutional Society
Why Idaho?
I’ve been an Idaho gal since birth, so the in-state cost appealed to me initially. I looked at a few other universities, and I knew that the location was among the most important factors for me to consider. It’s not only somewhere I’m going to school, it’s somewhere I’m committing to living my early 20s in. I wanted somewhere with a charming downtown, pine trees, animals, and mountains. Once I saw the historic buildings on campus, the gorgeous arboretum, and heard rumors about a campus moose, I was sold. I grow more in love with North Idaho and the Palouse everyday. I don’t think I’ll be leaving this area anytime soon.
What advice would you offer to incoming 1Ls?
Make sure you still take time to enjoy life. You’re spending three years of your precious, non-refundable time here. Take a night of here or there to go to a trivia night with friends, go hiking with family, or to do a hobby that refreshes you. Once we graduate, the networks we make will be more important than whether we could have scored five points higher on that Torts Midterm. Find balance, take care of yourself, be a good human to others, and I promise, you’ll be okay.
Favorite Moscow recommendation?
Go to an event at the Kenworthy Theater. They host live theater, free movie screenings, film themed costume contests, and a million other entertaining things to do throughout the year.
Matthew Wren
Student Ambassador
Moscow 3L
Hometown: Lewiston, Idaho
Undergrad School: University of Idaho
Student Orgs: Idaho Law Review, OUTLaw
Why Idaho?
Born and raised in Northern Idaho, went here as an undergraduate and wanted to be close to friends and family.
What advice would you offer to incoming 1Ls?
Keep a consistent schedule and stick to it as best as possible.
Favorite Moscow recommendation?
Paradise Cafe