Tommy Phan

Tommy Phan
Class of 2024
Louisville, KY

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

I love the support I have in my family and friends.

What undergraduate and graduate degrees do you have? 

University of Louisville for undergrad, majored in Criminal Justice and minored in Communications

Why law school and why Brandeis?

I wanted to be a lawyer since the second grade after seeing how my mom was treated for not understanding English. I decided I wanted to go to law school and become a lawyer to help minorities in my community have a voice. My plan was DuPont Manual high school, University of Louisville for undergrad, and Brandeis for law school. Everything has gone as planned so far.

How have you changed since your 1L year?

It is crazy to think I am starting my 3L year in 3 months, time flew! I have become a more well-rounded person with more knowledge on the law than when I walked into the law school. I can proudly say, law school helped confirm that where I am at is where I'm supposed to be.

What are you most proud of and why?

I am most proud of my partner-in-life and how far we have gone. I am proud of my law school family for getting through the last two years with me and I can't wait to enjoy the last year of our law school career together. For those classmates who know me personally, I just want to let them know that we are family for life and that I am proud of them just as much as I am proud of myself for reaching 3L year.

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

To be inclusive means to be welcoming and respectful. To me, as long as I respect everyone's views as long as it doesn't infringe on other's rights and freedom, and to welcome others to voice their views, I consider myself to be inclusive. Excellence means to perform something to the best of your ability and to be recognized for that ability.

What is your professional goal for five years from now?

My goal for 5 years from now is to be a court interpreter for Vietnamese people and practice in my private firm as a general practitioner.

What is your favorite quote?

“Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, but today is a gift, that is why it is called the present." - Master Oogway from Kung Fu Panda