Transferring to HLS: A Transformative Experience in Legal Aid

When I was considering transferring, one of my biggest concerns was whether I would have the opportunity to get clinical experience in my second year, given the uncertainty about course registration and fulfilling requirements. By joining the Harvard Legal Aid Bureau (HLAB), I am doing more hands-on, direct services work as a student than I could be doing anywhere else, and in the process, I’ve become a part of a vibrant community that has transformed my education and inspired me to continue working in legal aid.

A Unique Two-Year Commitment

As a transfer applicant, I knew relatively little about HLAB. What first attracted me was its unique two-year commitment: once you join the Bureau (as it’s affectionately known), you are a part of it for every remaining semester. Rather than other clinics, which end after one or two semesters, HLAB offers you the ability to see your cases through from start to finish and to work closely with instructors to build your skills and experience.

As my first year at HLAB wraps up, I am so grateful to have another full year ahead. I have been working in the housing practice, defending tenants from eviction. I started the year knowing nothing about housing law, but with the support of HLAB’s excellent instructors, I’ve argued cases in court, negotiated with opposing counsel, and won dismissals. Meanwhile, I’ve had the privilege of working with City Life/Vida Urbana, one of HLAB’s community partners, a housing justice organization that does amazing work and is full of inspiring leaders. One instructor likes to say that most law students graduate with a degree, while HLAB students graduate as attorneys. I can imagine no better place to learn how to be a lawyer committed to social change than HLAB.

I can imagine no better place to learn how to be a lawyer committed to social change than HLAB.

A Tight-Knit and Supportive Community

HLAB is just as special for its community. HLAB brings together a tight-knit group of people—students, professors, instructors, and staff—who think critically, care about each other, and are driven by a shared goal of using the law, in conjunction with community partners, to make the world more just and equitable. HLAB quickly became my “home base” on campus, and I am so glad that I had this community before my classes even began.

I hope you consider joining us!

–Steven Rome ’25