Expanding pathways from postsecondary to workforce and ensuring a stable financial future for all young adults

With graduation quickly approaching, I often feel anxious about what comes next. As a resident advisor, I have been fortunate to receive housing through the university, but this privilege will end once I complete my degree. Like many pre-law students, I faced several years of financial instability before securing a job in my field that provided a livable wage—especially in an expensive city like Los Angeles. Throughout my time as a student, I have worked various part-time jobs to make ends meet. However, many of these roles are not highly regarded in my field. Additionally, the burden of repaying student loans while trying to save for law school significantly limits what I can allocate toward rent and other expenses. Between being a student and becoming a lawyer lies a significant financial gap. Within this gap are costs such as LSAT preparation, application fees, tuition, and temporary housing. These mounting expenses often serve as barriers for those who do not come from generational wealth or a lineage of lawyers. Many students are forced to abandon their dreams of pursuing law—or other rigorous fields like medicine and scientific research—due to the lack of financial and institutional support after completing their undergraduate education. Creating pathways that promote equal access to stable careers is a necessary investment in our generation’s success. In recent years, it has become increasingly important for students to obtain graduate or professional degrees, yet the costs and challenges of doing so remain overwhelming. Policies that improve accessibility and help young adults navigate the workforce will be essential in fostering a future of diverse and capable leaders for our nation.