Pursue Justice and Dispute Resolution at Pepperdine

Hello, friends!

My name is Janelle and I am reaching out to you with an exciting and deeply personal opportunity to help me pursue my dream of becoming a skilled dispute resolution professional. I have been accepted into Pepperdine University’s prestigious Caruso School of Law and Strauss institute. However, the cost of tuition is a significant hurdle for me, and I’m humbly asking for your support to help cover my tuition fees.

Why Pepperdine?

Pepperdine University is not only renowned for its academic excellence but also for its unique Christian approach to education. As someone who is deeply committed to integrating faith with learning and practicing justice, I knew that Pepperdine was the right place for me. I have chosen to study Dispute Resolution because I believe in the power of peaceful, constructive dialogue to resolve conflicts and heal divisions. Whether in the courtroom or in our everyday lives, disputes have the potential to tear people apart, but I believe that, through compassionate negotiation and mediation, we can bridge these gaps and build better communities.

This vision was solidified after reading Divine Collision by Jim Gash, the current president of Pepperdine University. His book tells the inspiring story of his work in Uganda, where he helped resolve life-and-death disputes using the principles of restorative justice. Jim’s journey of using his legal education to enact meaningful, transformational change deeply moved me. It was then that I felt a call to study dispute resolution—where law intersects with humanity, compassion, and reconciliation. Jim’s work helped me realize that a lawyer’s purpose isn’t just to win cases, but to serve others, foster understanding, and restore peace.

Why I Need Your Help

Law school is expensive, and as much as I am excited about the opportunity, I am also facing the challenge of funding my education. While I have been blessed with some financial aid, the cost of tuition still remains a substantial barrier. However, as an international student from South Africa, pursuing this dream comes with significant financial challenges.

This year, I have faced some unexpected hardships. As a resident of California, I was severely affected by the devastating Palisades fires. The disaster had a profound impact on my life and finances, leaving me in a difficult situation as I try to manage the costs of tuition, living expenses, and other fees.

Every donation, no matter how big or small, will directly support my tuition fees, allowing me to focus on my studies and my commitment to dispute resolution. By contributing, you will be helping me to continue my education at a Christian institution that places great emphasis on integrity, faith, and service. I plan to use my education not only to build a career but to give back to my community, working toward a more peaceful and just world.

The Impact of Your Support

Your generosity will help me gain the knowledge and skills I need to practice law in a way that reflects the Christian values of compassion, justice, and service to others. I want to use my education to advocate for those who feel voiceless, to resolve conflicts with empathy, and to spread peace in a divided world.

Thank you so much for considering supporting my journey. Your belief in me means the world, and I cannot do this without your help.

If you are unable to donate, please keep me in your thoughts and prayers as I embark on this exciting new chapter in my life. Thank you for being a part of my story!

With gratitude and hope,

Janelle Naicker