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Colorado Law's Master of Studies in Law (MSL) degree is a one-year, 28-credit, no-LSAT-required program that enables students who hold at least an undergraduate degree to obtain legal training short of a full Juris Doctor (JD). Increasingly, emerging job markets have openings that require some legal knowledge and employers are assigning a number of legal tasks traditionally performed by lawyers to non-lawyers. Colorado Law's MSL will prepare students to obtain and excel in those positions. This semester, we are thrilled to highlight some of our incredible MSL students and their journey to pursuing an MSL degree! NextÌýup, meet Alejandra Jimenez de Mendez (she/her/ella).ÌýÌý

Where are you from?Ìý

AJ: I am from Chihuahua, Mexico.Ìý

What inspired you to pursueÌýa MSLÌýdegree?Ìý

AJ: I was inspired to pursue an MSL degree because I wanted to bridge my passion for serving vulnerable communities with a deeper understanding of the legal and compliance systems that impact their lives. Through my professional work, I saw how policies, regulations, and enforcement can either remove barriers or unintentionally create them for people seeking healthcare, employment, or basic protections. To truly contribute meaningful solutions, I realized I needed more than advocacy experience; I needed a solid foundation in law and compliance. The MSL program allows me to critically analyze issues, communicate effectively across legal and non-legal settings, and help organizations uphold both ethical and legal responsibilities. For me, this degree isn’t just about advancing my career; it’s about ensuring that systems designed to protect people actually serve them with fairness and accountability.

What are your hobbies outside of work and school?Ìý

AJ: I enjoy cooking and experimenting with new spices and flavors. I love exploring food traditions that connect to culture and history, discovering the meaning in how diverse communities use food as a means of storytelling and connection.Ìý

What is your educational background, and what was/is your career before deciding to pursue a MSL degree?Ìý

AJ: I earned a Bachelor of Science in Human Services with a concentration in Nonprofit Organizations, along with a minor in Political Science. During my undergraduate years, I worked at a corporate firm, which provided me with valuable insight into organizational structures and business operations. Recently, I decided to leave that path to pursue my long-standing goal of entering the legal and compliance field. Alongside my studies, I’m also developing a consulting practice to help organizations create effective policies, launch and manage nonprofits, and eventually strengthen their compliance and ethics frameworks with the knowledge I gain from my MSL.Ìý

Why did you choose Colorado Law for your MSL degree?Ìý

AJ: I chose Colorado Law because of its strong commitment to community and innovation. The faculty’s expertise, the collaborative and small learning environment, and the emphasis on applying legal knowledge in real-world contexts make this program stand out. As someone deeply committed to helping organizations and vulnerable communities navigate complex systems, I wanted a program that not only builds technical knowledge but also supports the development of ethical and impactful leadership. Colorado Law offers precisely that.Ìý

What are you most looking forward to this upcoming academic year?Ìý

AJ: I’m really looking forward to diving into what law school looks like, since I hope to one day pursue a JD. This year gives me the chance to build a strong foundation in compliance and legal studies, while learning from professors and peers who bring so much knowledge and perspective. I’m also excited to connect with classmates and faculty as people, not just as colleagues, building relationships that go beyond the classroom. And of course, I’m looking forward to the football games!Ìý

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