For Sofia Lopez Chicas, the study of law is both a career ambition and an act of care. As a double major in Political Science and Philosophy with a minor in Legal Studies, Sofia’s academic journey at the Colin Powell School has been defined by a deep desire to understand how power, justice, and institutions shape the human experience.
From El Salvador to the City College
Sofia’s commitment to public service is rooted in her own history. Born in El Salvador, she immigrated to the United States with her family during her teenage years. Her early life was marked by the shadows of political instability, as her parents lived through El Salvador’s civil war — an experience that became an inflection point for Sofia’s own worldview.
“My parents grew up during El Salvador’s civil war, and their experiences deeply influenced my understanding of how political systems can impact people’s lives across generations,” Sofia shares. “From a young age, I found comfort and meaning in art, literature, and philosophy. They taught me to slow down and observe with care the subtle ways all life is connected.”
This background inspired her to pursue her unique combination of majors. “I sought to learn how to examine institutions, laws, and moral questions with care, mindful of how ideas shape the lives of real people,” she explains.
Finding Clarity at the Colin Powell School
During her senior year, Sofia has solidified her path toward law school, citing the Colin Powell School as the central force in her academic and professional formation.
As a Colin Powell Fellow for Leadership and Public Service, Sofia gained more than just networking opportunities; she gained a sense of mission. With the fellowship’s support, she secured an internship with the Legal Aid Society’s Immigration Law Clinic. This experience moved her education out of the textbook and into the courtroom, where she gained hands-on experience advocating for vulnerable immigrant communities.
Her involvement in the Honors Program in Legal Studies further prepared her for the rigorous demands of law school, providing the analytical and writing foundation she needed to thrive. “With guidance from the program at every stage of the law school application process, I was admitted to a number of law schools in New York,” she notes.
Looking Toward the Future
After graduation, Sofia is heading to the CUNY School of Law. Her career goal is deeply personal and purposeful: to become an immigration lawyer who helps families navigate a complex system while preserving their dignity.
“I hope to use my legal education to advocate for those who are marginalized and to give back to the communities that shaped me,” Sofia says.
Advice for Her Peers
For students currently navigating their own paths at the Colin Powell School, Sofia offers a reminder to be purposeful in how they engage with their environment:
“My advice to other students is to approach the resources and mentorship at the Colin Powell School with intention and openness. Ask for guidance, and be passionate. Opportunities will unfold naturally by building relationships with faculty and committing to the work before you!”
