Fueling Change: How Passion for Climate Justice Paved the Way to Big Law for Natalie Lara ’25

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Natalie Lara ’25 is a first generation Mexican American whose parents both came to the United States as young adults. Natalie was the first in her entire extended family to attend college and was also the first to attend law school.

Originally, Natalie wanted to become a climate researcher, but after taking her first environmental policy course she learned more about environmental law and was intrigued. “Environmental law really stood out to me, because my professor had explained it as a way to bridge science, policy, and people,” said Natalie. “I knew I liked working with people, but I also wanted to advocate for better environmental conditions. Furthermore, growing up in South Florida, hurricanes were a common occurrence. I saw how climate change was affecting my community and other communities like mine, and I realized that I wanted to use the law to advocate for a sustainable future for all.”

Natalie had what she describes as a very well rounded and positive experience as a student at the Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University. During her time at Pace Haub Law, Natalie participated in the Land Use Law Center legal externship and helped to develop the Climate Resilient Development workshop series. She was also president of the Environmental Law Society, secretary of the Latin American Law Students Association, and Hospitality Vice-Chair for the National Environmental Law Moot Court Competition. “Pace Haub Law is very rooted in community,” said Natalie. “There were opportunities for involvement and networking everywhere, which allowed me to develop my networking and communication skills. The community at Pace ultimately helped me develop confidence in my abilities.”

In addition to the numerous practical learning opportunities, what differentiated law school for Natalie was the professors. “Every single professor was engaging and enthusiastic and all are willing to go beyond the classroom and act as mentors to help their students navigate their legal careers,” shared Natalie. In particular, Professor Smita Narula inspired Natalie. “In addition to her impressive legal career and despite any injustices that she's confronted throughout her life, Professor Narula is kind to everyone, and she reminds us to do the same. She reminds her students that it's important to process emotions as we feel them, whether we have great wins or great losses. This has been invaluable to remember.”

In 2025, Natalie graduated with an Advanced Certificate in Environmental Law. Her goal was to work in environmental law and to "end up at a firm full of people who are inspired by the law and continue to challenge themselves." Natalie is currently an associate at Kirkland & Ellis LLP, pending bar admission and feels fortunate to have the opportunity to fulfill her goals. “My studies at Pace Haub Law helped me gain the confidence and skills necessary to secure this position,” said Natalie. During her time at Pace Haub Law Natalie was also a summer associate with Kirkland Ellis and she remains appreciative of the Law School’s Career Center for Professional Development in helping her prepare for interviews and giving feedback on her applications. “I am looking forward to this next step in my legal journey and feel fortunate to have the opportunity to learn from top lawyers in the field and refine my legal practice skills.” 

In her spare time, Natalie loves to read and believes that it is important to dedicate time to focus on yourself outside of your professional life.