Q&A with 2024-25 Student Bar Association President Maelene Rosales

The 2024-25 Student Bar Association (SBA) president at University of Arizona Law Maelene Rosales shares advice for first-year students, goals as SBA president, and what she is most looking forward to in the months ahead. From fostering a supportive community to enhancing student engagement, she is ready to lead with passion and purpose. Read on to learn more about her vision for the year and the impact she hopes to make. 

Name: Maelene Rosales 
Hometown: San Antonio, Texas 
Undergrad: Abilene Christian University (Abilene, TX), political science with my minor in criminal justice 

What first inspired you to pursue a law degree? 

I was inspired to pursue a law degree when I was thirteen after some research into how I could help other Native Communities protect their land against a pipeline being built through their reservation. As a young Native person in Texas, I felt powerless and wanted to know more about how I could make a difference. I then learned about Environmental Law and Policy. Eventually that evolved into my personal pursuit of helping the indigenous. 

What do you hope to do with your law degree? 

I hope to become a Public Defender and create law and policy regarding criminal justice and lowering recidivism rates through rehabilitation. 

What are you looking forward to this year? 

I am looking forward to so many things this year, but I think that the Welcome Back Picnic will be my favorite because it was the first event that I worked on during my 1L year, so it will feel like an incredible full circle moment for me. 

What do you think everyone should experience as an Arizona Law student? 

Personally, I think that SBA’s Trivia Nights are some of the best memories that I have made during my time at Arizona Law! 

What do you think everyone should experience living in Tucson?   

I think that everyone should experience hiking A Mountain while living in Tucson! It’s a quick hike that has a gorgeous view the entire time. 

Favorite restaurant in Tucson? What do you order? 

Noodleholics is my #1! I get the Guilin with crispy pork! It hits the spot every time! 

Favorite hangout spot on campus? 

I have two spots that you will find me at on campus, either the courtyard or the dean’s lobby on the couches! 

Why should students get involved with SBA (or any other student organizations)? 

Students should get involved in SBA if they are interested in student advocacy and helping their immediate law school community. I believe that students should get involved in other student organizations as well because everyone has a passion for something, and student organizations are how we are able to channel it and exercise our abilities and strengths. 

Advice for the first-year students? 

Ask for help and do not be afraid to ask questions! During my first year I was very hesitant to go to office hours or ask my Fellows for clarification or advice, but I deeply regret it because every single person on this campus is rooting for you! They all want to help you succeed and do your best! 

Do you ever take study breaks in law school?  

Yes, of course! I think that breaks are quintessential to not burning out in law school! I try to give myself a cut off time for assignments and studying that can allow for free time. I was told that law school should be a 9-5 and I do not necessarily agree with that, but I attempt to keep my entire Sunday free from assignments and just hang out with friends or have a quiet day reading for fun or watching movies. 

What are your goals and priorities for the upcoming school year? 

My goals and priorities for the upcoming school year are to create a more involved SBA and to incorporate as much feedback as possible into our organization. My overall goal is to be a better advocate for our student body and to be a friend to anyone that I can! Additionally, I would love to throw the greatest Barrister’s Ball of all time! 

What legacy or impact do you hope to leave as SBA president? 

As SBA President I hope that my impact is on all of the students that I have had the privilege of interacting with have the opportunity to make Arizona Law their home and that they all felt that I did everything in my power to advocate for them because I truly care about each of them as individuals.