Kerby T. Standifer

Kerby T. Standifer
Class of 2021
Frankfort, KY

What do you love most about your family and/or friends?

I love spending time with my friends and family because they ground me, make me laugh, and remind me of what is important. They are comforting and encouraging, and I am lucky to have such a great support system!

What undergraduate and graduate degrees do you have? What majors/minors? 

Before coming to Brandeis, I received my Bachelor of Arts from Transylvania University. While at Transy, I majored in Writing, Rhetoric, and Communications and minored in Spanish language.

Why law school and why Brandeis?

From a young age I loved to read and write, and as I grew up, I also became interested in how politics and the government can effect change in the world. For me, going to law school just made sense based on these interests. I chose Brandeis after I was able to take a tour here. Everyone I met was so kind and engaging, and I could really picture myself in the class I observed that day. It just felt right!

How have you changed since your 1L year?

I would say that I have become more confident and inquisitive since I started at Brandeis. My professors have always encouraged us to participate and ask questions, and the discussions we have in class really help me dig deeper into the content. They told us at 1L orientation that "in law school, you get out what you put in", and I have really tried to embrace this advice.

In addition to getting into the UofL Brandeis School of Law, what are you most proud of and why?

I am most proud of my involvement during my time in law school. I have strived to participate in different organizations, academic publications and groups, and volunteering opportunities, while also working as both a law clerk and extern. This involvement has brought me many unique experiences while also helping me meet so many great mentors, peers, and friends. I think it is important to have diverse experiences and I am proud of mine thus far, and look forward to what is in store for me in the future.

How do you define Inclusive? How do you define Excellence?

To me, inclusivity means acknowledging and encouraging diversity, and embracing the unique and various knowledge and experience that each person has to offer. I would define excellence as your ability to set goals based on the things that are important to you and the change you want to see in the world, and working to achieve those even in the face of adversity.

What is your professional goal for five years from now?

While I am not sure exactly where I'll be or what I will be doing five years from now, my goal is to be someone who my colleagues and peers in the community feel they can trust and rely upon.

Favorite quote?

"Fight for the things that you care about, but do it in a way that will lead others to join you." - Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg