About Me
Name and Grad Year
Kal Muraco, Class of 2027.
Prior Education
BS, psychology, minor in ethnic studies, California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, California.
Before Ann Arbor, I Lived In
San Jose and San Luis Obispo, California; Melbourne, Australia.
I Grew Up In
San Jose, California.
Prior to Law School
I went to Australia on a work/holiday visa and traveled around the east coast for a few months, then came home and worked as an LSAT tutor for 7Sage.
My Dream Job
To work in impact litigation, specifically addressing civil rights issues.
Biggest Hesitation about Law School
I was definitely worried about having a life outside of law school, as I knew the time commitment would make it somewhat all-encompassing. While law school has been a huge time commitment so far, as I push myself to try different strategies for reading and note-taking and discuss cases with classmates, it has become more and more manageable. I still find time to do other things I enjoy.
Why I Chose Michigan Law
Having lived in California for practically my entire life, I really wanted to experience living in a different part of the country. I’m still unsure whether I want to go back to the Bay Area or work in a different market after I graduate. With Michigan alumni in every legal market imaginable, I knew I wouldn’t be confined to one geographic area after law school. I also understood Michigan to be very community-based and overwhelmingly friendly, which was a huge priority for me.
My Time at Michigan Law
The Best Thing about Michigan Law
The people and professors have been the best thing about Michigan Law thus far. It is so incredibly easy to make friends here: people are extremely social, friendly, and welcoming. And whether you’re in their class or not, professors are more than willing to go the extra mile and make time for any needs a student may have.
What “The Michigan Difference” Means to Me
I think “The Michigan Difference” is most apparent to me when interacting with Michigan Law alumni and classmates whom I don’t know very well. Despite not yet personally knowing many in my supersection (of 80 students), I am always greeted with a wave and warm smile when I see them around campus. When it comes to alumni, Michigan Law grads ride for their own—they are extremely willing to make connections and create opportunities for current students and other alum.
What Surprised Me Most About Michigan Law
I was (and still am) surprised by how much free food is available to students all the time!
What I Like Least about Law School
As a 1L, I don’t feel like I have enough time take on a leadership position in a club, volunteer with pro bono projects, do my assigned readings, go to the gym, and have time to relax. You have to pick and choose, which is tough when you want to do everything!
My Favorite Class
Much to my surprise, Contracts has been my favorite class so far, entirely because of Professor Pottow. He is one of the most engaging lecturers I have ever encountered, and I genuinely always look forward to his class.
My Law School Extracurricular Activities
Trial Team, Sentence Commutation Project, Wolverine Street Law, OUTLaws.
My Favorite Study Spot
Though I don’t study there as often as I’d like, my favorite study spot is on the grass in the Law Quad (weather-permitting).
The Best Thing about Ann Arbor
I really like the pace of life in Ann Arbor. There’s enough to do that you have the option to explore and try new things, but it’s not so big and fast that it’s overwhelming. I also love walking through different neighborhoods and looking at everyone’s gardens. I don’t know if this is specifically an “Ann Arbor thing,” but every garden I see is so unique and well-kept!
Fun Stuff
My Favorite Way to De-stress
Work out or hang out with my cat, Clover.
Favorite Book
The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller.
Favorite Movie
Us (Jordan Peele) or Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse.
Favorite TV Show
Midnight Gospel.
Favorite Podcast
Emergency Intercom
Favorite Beverage
Dirty Chai.
Favorite Ice Cream Flavor
Michigan Potholes from Washtenaw Dairy.
Favorite Ann Arbor Meal
Beef frita with everything on it from Frita Batidos.
Favorite Item at the K&E Café
The BLT.