Meet Sofia Castillo ’27L Sofia Castillo discusses the W&L Law community and the class where she truly felt in her element.

Sofia Castillo ’27L

Sofia Castillo ’27L is from Miami, Florida. She received her undergraduate degree from Florida State University, where she majored in criminology. At W&L Law, she serves as secretary of the Student Bar Association and was the winner of the Mock Trial competition.

Why did you choose W&L Law?

The community in Lexington and at W&L is a big part of why I chose to come here for law school. After going to a smaller magnet high school, I knew I wanted that same kind of close, genuine community again, and I’ve found it here. Being able to recognize everyone by face and name, and to work alongside such a supportive group, has not only made me a better person but also a stronger advocate for my future career. You always hear horror stories about law school being super competitive or people trying to sabotage each other, but that really hasn’t been my experience at all. Everyone here is supportive, welcoming, and genuinely wants to see each other succeed.

What has been your most impactful experience at W&L, either on or off-campus? 

One of the most impactful experiences I’ve had at W&L has been serving as the secretary of the Student Bar Association. In this role, I’ve had the opportunity to take on meaningful responsibility, collaborate with an incredibly driven group of peers, and help shape initiatives that directly impact the student experience. It’s been especially rewarding to contribute to planning events that not only bring people together, but also emphasize the importance of connection, support, and community within the law school. Through this experience, I’ve grown both as a leader and as a team member, and it’s deepened my appreciation for the kind of environment we strive to build at W&L.

Share an experience, class, professor/staff member that has had an impact on your time as a law student.

It’s been a privilege to learn from every professor at this school. As a 2L, I’ve also had the opportunity to engage more with our staff, especially administration, and every interaction reinforces that I chose the right school. My most impactful experience, however, was with Professor DiBiagio in his Federal White Collar Crime course. It was the first class where I truly felt in my element. The course pushed me out of my comfort zone by requiring me to actively participate in class discussions and collaborate with partners on practical issues directly connected to the material we were learning.

What has been your greatest accomplishment since arriving at W&L? 

I believe the environment at W&L makes every achievement feel especially meaningful. That said, my greatest accomplishment since arriving has been winning the Mock Trial competition. It reflected not only my hard work and dedication, but also the support I’ve received from my professors and the Moot Court executive board.

Who or what inspires you?

My parents have not only sacrificed financially and personally to help me get where I am today, but they’ve also been my greatest inspiration throughout my life. My dad has taught me the value of street smarts and how to advocate for what I want, which ultimately encouraged me to pursue this field. My mom has always been my biggest supporter, inspiring me to try everything and reminding me that the only real failure is not trying at all. Everything I’ve accomplished, and who I am today, is a direct result of their sacrifices, love, and unwavering support.

Anything you are looking forward to this year and summer 2026?

I’m a total concert addict, so I’ve got several shows lined up this summer! The biggest one, of course, is Ariana Grande. I’m also really hoping to make it to a music festival, maybe Lollapalooza, especially if I end up working in Chicago this summer.