Her Story
About Sophia
Sophia Laurain is a political science undergraduate student at Central Michigan University, expected to graduate in May 2027. She works as a legal assistant at Collison & Collison PC, a law firm founded by her great-grandfather, where she has gained hands-on experience handling medical records, attending court proceedings, and sitting in on depositions. Prior to entering the legal field, she worked as a hostess at Texas Roadhouse, an experience that strengthened her communication, organization, and customer service skills before she transitioned into legal work to pursue her goal of becoming an attorney.
On campus, Sophia holds several leadership roles that reflect her strong involvement in student life and service. She serves as Student Body Treasurer for the Central Michigan University Student Government Association, where she helps manage student initiatives and financial responsibilities. She is also the Academic Coordinator for Delta Phi Epsilon and the founder and president of the university’s LEGO Club, which she established to build community and creativity among students. In addition, she has earned certification in Adult Mental Health First Aid, further demonstrating her commitment to supporting wellbeing and informed leadership.
Sophia’s long-term goal is to attend law school and become a practicing criminal defense attorney. She is especially interested in criminal law and is preparing for a career in a field where she aims to advocate for justice and represent clients in complex legal situations. As a woman entering a traditionally male-dominated area of law, she is focused on building resilience and expertise while continuing to grow through academic, professional, and leadership experiences. Guided by her values of justice, sisterhood, and love, she aspires to complete law school and begin her legal career within the next five years.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Sophia
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the unwavering support and encouragement of my family and friends. Their belief in me has provided the motivation, strength, and confidence to pursue my goals, overcome challenges, and continue growing both personally and professionally.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received was to never give up and never allow anyone to treat me differently because I’m a woman in a male-dominated field. That advice taught me to remain confident in my abilities, advocate for myself, and focus on the value I bring rather than the barriers others may try to place in my way.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to know your worth and have confidence in your abilities. Don’t let anyone define your limitations or tell you what you can’t achieve. Stay focused on your goals, continue learning, and trust in the value you bring. With determination, resilience, and self-belief, you can overcome challenges and succeed in any environment.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced in my field is dealing with stereotypes and bias as a woman entering the male-dominated area of criminal law. I’ve sometimes encountered people who question my career choice or assume I should pursue a different area of law, which can be discouraging. However, these experiences have strengthened my determination and reinforced my commitment to criminal law, where I intend to pursue my goals and challenge those assumptions through my work.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me in both my work and personal life are justice, sisterhood, and love. I am guided by a strong sense of fairness and a commitment to doing what is right, while also uplifting and supporting other women around me. At the core of everything I do is love—for people, for my purpose, and for the impact I hope to make.
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