Mykaila Berry was born and raised in Montana, in a small town in the southern central part of the state. Raised by her grandparents, she was taught resilience and hard work were key to making her dreams come true. During her upbringing she dealt with difficult problems surrounding her family members including addiction and inter-family violence. Mykaila never let this deter her on her path to becoming a lawyer, in fact, it only made her desire stronger. Mykaila graduated from Columbus High School in 2016 and went on her way to the University of Montana. Upon her arrival at the University, she found a quick home in the Philosophy Department where she then spent the next 4 years learning anything and everything about ancient and modern philosophy. During those 4 years, Mykaila enrolled in courses on legal topics, which confirmed her belief that she was meant to go to law school to help families and children. After graduation from UM, Mykaila was accepted into Belmont College of Law in Nashville, Tennessee. Throughout law school Mykaila has interned with two judges, a Juvenile Judge in Metro Nashville and a Criminal Court Judge in Sumner County. Further she has been able to intern with a criminal defense and family law attorney and with the Department of Children’s Services, where she had her Rule 7 license and performed multiple hearings under supervision. Mykaila looks forward to graduating in May of 2024 and has found her passions to be criminal defense/juvenile defense and family law practice areas.

What originally inspired you/your family to choose the UM PLP?

I had dreamed of defending those less fortunate than myself since I was 6 years old. I knew that the University of Montana had the only law school in the state and after a visit to the campus I fell in love with the beauty of Missoula. I was fortunate on my visitation day to meet with Soazig Lebihan, the Pre-Law Director, and she immediately made me feel welcome and reassured about my choice to attend the University of Montana.

Which aspect(s) of the UM Pre-Law Program contributed the most to your success in matriculating at the law school of your choice?

I found a home and many friends in the Philosophy Department while working towards my goal of attending law school. During my undergraduate degree, I learned how to read, write, and think critically on difficult topics. I have been able to have worldly discussions with various individuals throughout my schooling which I believe prepared me for a career dealing with different people in different parts of their lives.

Which aspect(s) of the PLP would you say contributed the most to your career success?

I learned to have cordial conversations with people who grew up and thought very differently than I did. I have a vast amount of knowledge, not only in the legal field from various courses I took at UM, but also on philosophical topics that continue to be discussed by my law class colleagues.

What aspects of the campus culture at UM helped you successfully prepare for applying to law school?

The people are amazing! The whole campus is covered in trees and has so many hiking trails surrounding it that it’s easy to enjoy fresh air when schoolwork has you stressed.

Would you share a specific moment or experience that had a significant impact on your time in the Pre-Law Program at UM?

My relationships in general with my professors have been the best part of my educational journey at UM. I still regularly meet up with professors and call to update others about my law school experiences. I am constantly mentored and given advice no matter where in my life I find myself or what questions I need answered.

Is there any advice you would offer prospective students considering joining the UM PLP community?

Ask questions and don’t be afraid to come from a different background than what you think other students may come from. There is a family for you at UM if you are open and willing to put yourself out there.