Empowering Future Advocates: Student Engagement in Pro Bono Work at UCLA Law
At UCLA School of Law, pro bono work isn’t just encouraged—it’s embedded into the student experience from day one. From their very first week on campus, 1Ls are introduced to a vibrant culture of service and social impact through a comprehensive orientation led by Erin Han, the Director of The Judge Rand Schrader Pro Bono Program. This early introduction is designed not only to inform, but to inspire students to begin their public interest journey immediately.
A Strong Start: 1L Orientation and El Centro Projects
Orientation includes an overview of the pro bono program and an invitation for students to activate their Paladin accounts, an online platform that hosts the school’s array of pro bono opportunities. One of the most exciting aspects of this early exposure is the introduction to El Centro Legal Projects, a group of 12 student-led projects that launch at the start of the academic year. These projects are immensely popular and serve as a gateway to hands-on legal work with underserved communities in the Los Angeles area.
Following orientation, student project chairs present their initiatives at a lunchtime panel, giving new students a chance to hear directly from their peers about the work and impact of each clinic. Applications open immediately after the panel and close a week later, with placements and trainings occurring shortly after. Even after El Centro placements are filled, opportunities continue to roll out through Paladin via direct partnerships with Legal Services Organizations (LSOs).
Building Community Through Service
In addition to structured volunteer work, the Schrader Pro Bono Program partners with the Student Bar Association to host the Public Service Challenge each November. During this week-long event, students are encouraged to log any form of public service—even non-legal—as pro bono hours. The competition adds a layer of camaraderie and class pride, culminating in a reception for the winning class. In 2024, the 1L class proudly took home the victory.
Recognition and Incentives for Impact
UCLA Law offers meaningful incentives for students who go above and beyond in their commitment to service. Through the Pro Bono Distinction and High Pro Bono Distinction honors, students who log significant hours receive recognition in the commencement program, as well as gold cords—some with additional charms—to wear with their regalia.
Outstanding contributors are further celebrated at the annual UServeLA event, which honors excellence in public interest work across the school. Students can be nominated by peers or faculty for special awards, and one student each year is selected for the prestigious AALS Honor Roll for exemplary pro bono service. Additionally, the law school may present a Highest Pro Bono award at graduation to a student who has made an exceptional impact on the program and the broader community.
Supporting Student-Led Initiatives
Pro bono at UCLA Law isn’t limited to established pathways. Students with their own vision for service can develop custom projects with the support of the Schrader Pro Bono Director. From brainstorming sessions to outreach strategies, the director offers personalized guidance and even joins students in meetings with potential partner organizations when needed. This tailored mentorship helps students bring their ideas to life and make a lasting impact.
Pro Bono as a Pillar of Legal Education
At UCLA Law, pro bono is more than just volunteer work—it’s a cornerstone of the school’s mission to develop compassionate, community-minded lawyers. Through structured programming, peer leadership, and institutional support, students are empowered to use their legal education in service of justice from the very beginning of their careers.
Whether through El Centro projects, independent projects, or campus-wide challenges, UCLA Law students are proving that legal education and public service go hand in hand—and the school is committed to recognizing and supporting every step of that journey.