Brittany Raposa’s recent published book “Fostering First Gen Success: A Guide for Law Schools” hit the stands a few weeks ago. Brittany has been involved in our field for over ten years and during this time has written several pieces and served in leadership roles in our field, all the while adventuring into motherhood, raising two young children. Today’s question & answer post serves to spotlight her accomplishments and allow others to learn from her success.

Question: What motivated you to write this book?

Answer: I was a first-generation law student—the first in my family to graduate high school, let alone college or law school. During my time in law school, I was often in “fight-or-flight” mode, anxious about whether I was keeping up, and constantly worried about being academically dismissed. I remember hearing whispers that people like me didn’t make it through law school, and at times it felt as if faculty doubted me too. Looking back, it’s hard to tell whether that was reality or imposter syndrome—but probably a bit of both.

This book is my response to that experience. I wrote it to urge law schools to recognize these challenges and, more importantly, to offer guidance and practical strategies so first-generation students don’t have to feel alone, confused, or filled with self-doubt. My goal is to help law schools foster an environment where students like me can thrive—not just survive.

Question: How do you manage your work responsibilities while also becoming a parent?

Answer: To be honest, I’m still figuring this out and learning every day. Managing work while becoming a parent is definitely a challenge. I try to approach it with intentionality: setting boundaries around my time, prioritizing what truly matters each day, and being realistic about what I can accomplish. Flexibility is important. I’ve learned to adjust my expectations, knowing that some days parenting demands more attention than work.

My stubborn self has also learned to ask for support—from my partner, family, and colleagues—and accepting help without guilt. It’s the guilt that chips away at me sometimes. But I’ve realized that “doing it all” does not mean doing everything perfectly, but rather being present and intentional in both roles. Being a mom has taught me patience, perspective, and creativity, which actually has helped me in my work.

Question: How do you make time to write?

Answer: Sometimes, after I finish a writing project, I ask myself: “How did I even do this?” But, when I think about it, I think I just set aside dedicated blocks of time, often early in the morning or late at night, when I know I can focus without distractions. Even small, consistent writing sessions add up over time. I also love writing, which helps. I remind myself why I’m writing: the impact I hope this work can have on others keeps me motivated.

Question: How did you secure this book opportunity?

Answer: I had the idea to write this book when I worked as a bar support professional in a law school. As a first-generation law student and law professor, I recognized a gap in guidance for students like me and really wanted to address it. I developed a proposal that outlined the book’s purpose, audience, and impact, and I reached out to publishers. I put myself out there, but I had never done anything like this before. I was really nervous, but I’m so happy I did it.

Question: What is one piece of advice you wish to share will our community as it pertains to career building?

Answer: I think it’s so important to lean into your unique perspective and experiences. Your background is a strength, regardless of what others think about it. Bring that authenticity into your work, put yourself out there, and remember: you are your best self. Approaching your career with that mindset helps quiet the voices of doubt—ones I know from experience can get very loud. Trust your voice and let it guide your career.

In the coming weeks, Brittany will be hosting a series of roundtables with other authors that contributed to this book. More information will be shared with our community once those roundtables are scheduled. Bravo to everyone that worked on this book’s and well done, Brittany!

(Amy Vaughan-Thomas)