Jay Narimatsu
2L; Admissions Ambassador Executive Board - Communications, Tours & Information Sessions Committee Co-Chair
Hometown:
Honolulu, HI
Professional Interests:
Corporate Law; Civil Litigation
Student Organizations:
Student Bar Association (AGS Representative); Asian Pacific American Law Student Association, UCI Pre-Law Society Mentor
Extracurricular:
Moot Court; Research Assistant
UCI Law Clinic:
Community and Economic Development Clinic (Spring 2024)
Pro Bono:
Elder Law and Disability Rights Center
Housing:
UCI Graduate Housing (Ask me about living on campus!)
Meet Jay:
When applying to law school, I was instantly drawn to UCI’s mission of prioritizing community both within and outside of the classroom. Whether it’s my professors, counselors, mentors, or classmates, I truly believe that every member of the UCI community is fully invested in each other’s success.
Having spent a few years after college working before starting my legal journey, I knew that I wanted to attend a school where I could make an immediate impact. UCI is one of the few schools that allows first-year students to engage in meaningful client work right from the very start of their legal education. It’s an incredible experience to develop skills working directly with clients that you do not get from the standard 1L curriculum. Through my pro bono project with the ELDR Center, I’ve had the opportunity to work alongside clients by drafting due process complaints and directly participating in mediation sessions.
In my free time, you can find me hitting the beach, running around campus, or eating my way through every hotpot location in Orange County. My advice for applicants and admitted students preparing to start their legal education is to remember that law school is a journey! Everyone’s path is unique, and there is no “right” way to experience it. Additionally, whether it's clubs, classes, studying, or networking events, it’s very easy to get wrapped up in all that law school has to offer. Make sure to take time for your friends, family, and most importantly, yourself!