Justin Yun CC ʼ14, LAW ’20: The Decision Maker
As they wrapped up their final semester from their homes because of the COVID-19 crisis, six members of the Class of 2020 shared their most memorable Law School experiences and what’s next.
Hometown: Los Angeles
Why the law? At Teach for America, Justin Yun was frustrated by the lack of control he had over the decisions government and school board officials made that affected his students. As a lawyer, he hopes to make decisions on a micro scale that have a positive effect on individuals and communities and lead to change on a macro scale.
Why Columbia? “New York City is the center of law in America, and arguably the world,” says Yun. It’s also where he feels most productive; Yun graduated from Columbia College so Columbia Law felt like a homecoming.
Advice: “Don’t be afraid to reach out and talk to people. They’ll tell you how things actually work, and you will feel more prepared.”
Fun fact: In high school, Yun created a short film that was privately featured at the Universal Studios Lot.
Outside the classroom: President of the Asian Pacific American Law Student Association, Columbia Human Rights Law Review and A Jailhouse Lawyer’s Manual staff editor, Advanced Mediation Clinic leader, Student Senate secretary, and teaching fellow.
Career plans: Yun will work as a technology and intellectual property transactions associate at Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP in New York City.