A Lawyer in the Making: Graduation, Bar Exam & New Beginning

Jill Apter is organizing this fundraiser.

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Hi everyone,

After three intense years, I am finally approaching my law school graduation from Michigan State University College of Law! It’s been an incredibly challenging journey, and as I prepare for the next chapter—studying for the bar exam and launching my legal career—I’m asking for your support to help me bridge the gap.

Law school is never easy, but my time as a student has been uniquely difficult. During my 1L year, my school experienced a tragic shooting, and shortly after, my dad faced serious health challenges. My 2L year brought more heartbreak when my grandfather passed away over the holiday break, and a few months later, we made the difficult decision to move my father into memory care. That summer, I found myself dealing with legal harassment from new neighbors, adding even more stress to an already overwhelming time. Most recently, as I planned to transition into a federal government role post-graduation, I was thrown a curveball that put me back on the job hunt for reasons that are numerous (and probably obvious).

Despite all of this, I’ve stayed focused and determined—managing to graduate in the top 10% of my class and sitting for the Florida Bar exam in July. I’m incredibly proud of what I’ve accomplished and am eager to use my legal skills to make a real impact in my community.

With your generosity, I hope to:

Have a financial cushion while studying for the bar exam—so I can focus on passing without additional financial stress.

Start saving for a camper van—a dream of mine that will give me mobility and flexibility in my early career.

Invest in my future—whether that means covering moving costs, bar prep courses, or unforeseen expenses as I step into this next phase.

Every bit of support, whether through donations or sharing this fundraiser, means the world to me. Thank you for believing in me and for being part of my journey. I can't wait to pay it forward as I step into my legal career and work to better the world.

With gratitude,

Jill