Tony Duran

This semester, are you a 1L, 2L, 3L?

1L

Undergraduate and graduate degrees and majors

I have a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of St. Francis in Joliet, Illinois

Hometown (city and state)

I am from a small town called Braidwood, Illinois about an hour south of Chicago.

What do you love most about your family?

What I love most about my family is the unconditional love and support we have for each other. No matter what challenges we face or where life takes us, we always come together to help and care for one another. I love that we are all constantly encouraging each other to be better whether it be in sports, education, or professionally.

What made you want to serve your country?

I decided to serve my country because of a profound sense of duty and deep desire to make a positive impact on the world. Graduating from high school in 2001, I was immediately thrust into a world marked by the events of September 11^th. Those tragic attacks, just a few months after my graduation, had a profound influence on my decision. It was a time when our nation faced unprecedented challenges, and I felt a strong calling to do my part in defending our freedoms and ensuring the safety of our people.

What are you most proud of as a member of the service?

Two achievements stand out equally from my 16 years in the Army, receiving the Purple Heart and Bronze Star after being wounded from a landmine, and graduating from the Army Sniper School course. The Purple Heart is a constant reminder of the sacrifices made by myself and others in the line of duty. Sniper school required dedication, precision, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. I am very proud of both of those things and credit them with shaping me into the person I am today. 

Why do you want to be a lawyer?

Having experienced firsthand the challenges and obstacles faced by veterans and wounded warriors, I've developed a profound empathy for individuals who often find themselves in vulnerable positions. It became clear to me that the legal system plays a crucial role in ensuring their rights and well-being are protected. This realization was a driving force behind my decision to pursue a career in law.

What do you like most about Brandeis?

So far what I have most enjoyed is the sense of community. From the staff and faculty to the students I have had nothing but great interactions.

In five years, I want to be...

In five years, I want to have achieved significant personal and professional growth. I will be two years out of law school at that time and hopefully well into making a meaningful impact within my community as an attorney and advocate for justice.

What would you tell another 1L about law school and/or life?

Only being one month in my advice would be to not fret about what others are doing and saying. Find out what works for you and then do those things consistently.

How do you cope when times are challenging?

I like to seek support from family and friends during tough times. Family can provide necessary emotional support, lend a listening ear, and offer advice or perspective. I also like to take time for self reflection. It allows me to step back, assess my situation and gain a deeper understanding of the challenge.

Your favorite quote? (any quote from a family member, from a stranger, from a book, from a website, etc.)

The most certain way of ensuring victory is to march briskly and in good order against the enemy, always endeavoring to gain ground. – Frederick the Great