You are a state senator and a law student. How does each role inform the other? 

When I was appointed in 2016, I didn't realize just how valuable a legal education would be for policy-making. I remember sitting in my first legal writing class and being introduced to the role statutes and statutory language play in our legal system. I recognized the relationship between the law and the legislature, but it was in that moment where it became salient. Since then, I consider Boyd to be my home base as a senator. I've worked with professors and students to develop legislation, honed my statutory

You attended United States Marine Corps Officer Candidate School over the summer. What was that experience like?

I was humbled by my first real taste of the discipline and camaraderie that our service members rely upon on a daily basis to keep our country safe. I have never appreciated the luxury of private bathrooms, sleeping in, and leisurely eaten meals more. I now enthusiastically take on more challenges in my everyday life as opportunities for growth.

As president of the Asian Pacific American Law Student Association this year, what are your plans for the organization? 

Our

You are a black belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu. How did you come to be so proficient at that particular martial art?

I began practicing Brazilian jiu-jitsu at age six. What has made me so proficient is hard work. I would make small goals for myself, such as competing in an upcoming tournament, and do everything needed to be successful. I would study others registered for the tournament so that I would be prepared.

This may be a bit of a stretch, but...are there any principles underlying Brazilian jiu-jitsu that you have applied to your study of the law?

I would have to say that dedication

Tell us about your summer in our nation’s capital!

My summer was phenomenal! I interned for the Office of Management and Budget within the Executive Office of the President. My job entailed providing research and analysis on a broad range of issues involving Energy, Science, and Water policy. What I loved most about this position is that every day presents an opportunity to learn, meet new people, and – most importantly – to contribute to the federal policymaking process.

You were born and raised in Bulgaria. What brought you to Las Vegas?

My family had been living here since the early 2000

What's your fondest memory of your days as an undergraduate at Georgetown University? 

I had the privilege of being the coxswain for the men’s rowing team. One morning, our coach sent us out on the river to row for what seemed like hours. When everyone was absolutely beat, the team asked if I could sing to help pass the time. The blend of my voice, the cadence of the oars splashing into the Potomac, and the hum of nature surrounding us was magical.

You previously were a television news anchor and reporter in Idaho...and up north of here in Reno. How did you enjoy working in the media? 

Work

How was your summer?

It was great! I had time to visit my family in So Cal, clerked at De Castroverde Law Group, attended the International Academy on Law and Mental Health Conference in Rome where I presented – with fellow Boydian and friend Ariana Caruso – on Medical Legal Partnerships, and attended the Annual ABA Meeting in San Francisco. I honestly can’t complain!
 
What made you decide to leave your native California for Fabulous Las Vegas and the Boyd School of Law?

I mean, who wouldn’t want to attend the best law school in Nevada?! The tight knit legal community in Las Vegas and the

You were a special education teacher in the Washoe County School District for several years. Tell us about that experience.

I worked in special education for almost 10 years in Reno. The students I had the opportunity to work with are amazing individuals with moderate to severe disabilities, including intellectual disabilities and autism. I was able to learn a lot about myself from working with them. They are, and will forever be, a huge inspiration to me. They showed me that no matter how hard something seems, you can accomplish what you set out to do if you truly believe you will.

What

Prior to your arrival at Boyd last August, you worked for the U.S. Department of State. What stood out about that experience?

Very often, whatever was happening in the news had direct effects on our daily work, which made for some rather interesting and challenging days at the office. More personally, what stood out about my experience is that my job brought me to places I may have never had the opportunity to visit otherwise, including Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, the Czech Republic, and Austria.
 
Tell us about your studies at the University of Oklahoma as a Truman Scholar.  

My years

Tell our readers about your grandfather and the influence he's had on your professional goals.

My grandfather is Judge Addeliar Guy III. He became the first African American Deputy District Attorney in Nevada after moving from Chicago. Then in 1975, he became the first African-American District Court Judge. He also served as an alternate on the Nevada Supreme Court. Unfortunately, my grandfather passed away when I was young, so my memories of him are limited. Fortunately, pursuing law has provided me with a new picture of him. It is humbling to hear lawyers, judges, and people in the

You are a law student, your husband is in the Air Force, and your kids are...well, kids. Is making all that work as challenging as it sounds?

It is a balancing act and team effort! My husband and I are constantly comparing schedules for the family. I have also learned to ask for help! At times, this has meant having family travel to Las Vegas to help with the kids when my husband is away on assignment with the Air Force. It has taken a village!

How did your work as a paralegal with 2002 Boyd alum Leah Martin inform your decision to go to law school?

I was a paralegal for 10 years prior to