Nicole Bastos '20

Tell me about your decision to attend Boyd School of Law.

My decision was based on the scholarship that Boyd offered and the fact that it was the only law school in Nevada. I wanted to go to a school where I was more than just a number. I had access to all my professors in a meaningful way. And the time they devote to students is QUALITY time, catered to learning about your individual educational needs and questions. The professors are passionate about their work, and they are truly invested in being a part of your success. They don’t just talk the talk. They walk the walk.

Do you have certain memories about law school that you want to remember? 

This is going to sound very nerdy, but definitely my classes with Professor Main. He has a way of making learning easy. He really changed my attitude about law school and made an impact on the type of student I became. Additionally, my class with Professor Lazos allowed me to delve into some of the social/legal issues that I am passionate about. She provided a space where I could discuss what laws and policies were important to me and allowed me to channel that energy in her assignments.

I couldn’t make it through the day without …. 

Coffee! By far the real MVP.

What does success mean to you? 

Success means being happy with the person you have become. It’s not about how many awards or recognitions you’ve received. We’ve become so consumed with what everyone else is doing and meeting all these expectations. This is especially true in the legal field. Sometimes success means giving yourself a brief “pause” so that you can take time to constantly re-evaluate your life and ask yourself challenging questions. Is this professional role helping me become the individual I want to be? Is there something I need to add or eliminate from my life so that I can continue to be the best version of myself? I feel like this is not talked about as much as it should be. Editing your own life can be scary, but it is necessary. Sometimes success means letting others down. Let them down. Don’t let yourself down. You know what it right for you. Trust your gut and forge your own path. 

How did you first get into the legal profession?

I was the victim of medical malpractice when I was fifteen years old. My immigrant parents did not know how to navigate the US legal system and it was a rough journey. It was then that I decided I wanted to go to law school. I realized that the legal profession is a way to give back in so many impactful ways.