Megan Persing
Megan Persing is a public service–oriented legal professional and current Master of Paralegal Studies student at The George Washington University. Raised as the youngest daughter of a single mother who emphasized self-advocacy and responsibility toward others, she developed an early commitment to standing up for individuals who cannot advocate for themselves. That foundation led her to pursue a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Christopher Newport University, where she graduated with Pre-Law Distinction and actively engaged in student leadership, including roles focused on inclusion, social programming, and pre-law professional development.
She is currently advancing her legal training through graduate studies while preparing for the LSAT and law school admission. At George Washington University, Megan has remained deeply involved in the pre-law community, coordinating events, supporting student networking opportunities, and contributing to legal education initiatives. She has also collaborated on mental health advocacy work in partnership with the Virginia Supreme Court, reflecting her commitment to improving well-being within the legal field. Her involvement with organizations such as Phi Alpha Delta has further strengthened her focus on legal networking, mentorship, and access to professional pathways for aspiring law students.
Professionally, Megan works as a jewelry consultant to support her academic and career goals while balancing rigorous legal coursework and leadership responsibilities. She also serves as a pro bono court watcher with Legal Aid DC in landlord-tenant court, where she observes proceedings and documents case outcomes in support of equitable access to justice. Outside of her legal work, she is an active learner and community-minded individual who enjoys reading, writing, and creative expression, as well as fostering animals. Her work reflects a consistent commitment to advocacy, education, and expanding access to legal and mental health resources.
• The Three Pillars of Managing Conflict
• Christopher Newport University - B.A.
• Pre-law Distinction Recipient from Christopher Newport University
• Nominated for National Award in 2025 for Pre-law Mental Health Initiative with Virginia Supreme Court
• Phi Alpha Delta Law Fraternity
• Legal Aid DC
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my family, who have been a strong and consistent support system throughout my journey. They have always encouraged me to take initiative, push myself beyond my comfort zone, and strive for excellence. Their encouragement has helped me develop the drive and determination to pursue the best for myself. Overall, my support system has played a significant role in shaping the progress I have made so far.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I've ever received was from my undergraduate pre-law director, and he just looked at me one day, and he was like, you have to know yourself that you're going to accomplish this to get someone else to believe that you'll accomplish it. Like, you have to believe in yourself and trust yourself 100% of the time, even when you're scared that you might not get through it.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would advise young women entering my industry to trust their instincts and follow the direction their passion and values are guiding them toward. Even when the path feels uncertain, staying true to what feels right will help them make meaningful decisions. Over time, things have a way of coming together, and they will ultimately find themselves where they are meant to be in life.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field right now is establishing myself in a new city and building a professional network from the ground up. As a first-generation college student, I do not have existing family connections within the legal community, which can make entering the field more challenging. It requires a great deal of persistence to put myself out there, navigate uncertainty, and handle rejection along the way. However, I recognize that these experiences are also part of the process that ultimately leads to growth, opportunity, and meaningful professional connections.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both my work and personal life are honesty, respect, and love. I believe these are foundational principles that should be present in both family and professional environments. No one should feel undervalued, disrespected, or unsupported in any setting, and I strive to uphold these values in the way I interact with others and approach my responsibilities.