3L Andrea CosMora

1. Tell us about yourself.

My name is Andrea Cos, I am a 2L at SMU Law. I was born in El Paso, Texas, but grew up in Cd. Juarez, Chihuahua (a city right on the border with El Paso). I went to middle school and high school in El Paso, and then to college at the University of Texas at Austin where I studied journalism. I am an aspiring marathon runner, an amateur baker, and a proud dog mom as of June 9, 2020.

2. Why did you decide to come to SMU Law?

My ideal law school is one that incorporates both academic excellence and civic engagement. I chose SMU Law because I wholeheartedly believe it provides both in spades. In short, SMU Dedman School of Law’s emphasis on public service, professional responsibility, and excellent skills training are why I decided to attend.

3. What has been your favorite class and why?

My favorite class has been my 1L Contracts course because it helped me wrap my brain around the kind of analysis I had to develop for all my other classes. Plus, I loved the linear structure my professor used to analyze problems and cases, which is something I still use for all my classes today.

4. When you are not in school or studying, what do you do for fun?

When I am not in school or studying, I am either exploring Dallas’s restaurants and coffee shops or systematically going through every true crime documentary on Netflix. More importantly, I spend most of my free time playing with and training my new puppy, Niko.

5. How has law school challenged you most?

Law school has challenged me most by making me restructure the way I analyze problems and manage my time.

6. What has been your most memorable law school moment so far?

My most memorable law school moment so far has been working for SMU’s Legal Helpline over the summer and into the school year. It was my first introduction to the incredible work we can do as lawyers and it made me realize that I chose the right career.

7. What do you plan to do post-graduation?

I am still exploring my options, but as of right now, I would love to work in a small to mid-sized firm for a couple of years before returning to El Paso and starting my own immigration firm there.

8. Have you had any important mentors during law school? If so, who?

I have been so lucky to have so many incredible teachers and supervisors that have mentored me this past year. More specifically, I am incredibly grateful for my Legal Helpline supervisors, Professor Mary Spector and Professor Eric Cedillo, who have guided me during my first venture into what it means to be a lawyer.

9. Where do you see yourself in 5 and 10 years?

In five years, I see myself working in a small to mid-sized firm, gaining all the practical experience I possibly can. In ten years, I see myself going back home to serve my community by establishing my own immigration firm.