First-Generation Law Graduate Jose Gomez Prepares for Career in Business and Immigration Law

Jose Gomez, a native of Gilmer, Texas, is set to graduate this December with a Juris Doctor from the UA Little Rock William H. Bowen School of Law.

A trailblazer in his family, Gomez will become the first to earn a law degree, adding to his impressive academic achievements, including graduating a semester early.

"I'm the first person in my family to graduate high school and go to college," Gomez said. "My parents are smart and have shown me the value of education, but they weren't given the same environment to thrive in school."

His mother left school in third grade to care for farm animals, and his father worked in the oil field before retiring early due to a shoulder injury. Gomez was determined to forge a different path, inspired by their sacrifices and committed to making his education a priority. He came to Bowen after earning an associate degree at Kilgore College as well as a bachelor's degree in finance and MBA from Texas A&M University-Commerce.

During his time at Bowen, Gomez took on leadership roles and excelled academically. He served as a research assistant to Dean Colin Crawford and was recognized with the Latin American Law Student Association Award for his commitment to equity and diversity. Additionally, he received the prestigious Judge Oren Harris Scholarship, awarded for academic achievement, leadership, and commitment to service.

Gomez credits Bowen's faculty and opportunities for shaping his legal journey.

"I realized how much reading goes into law school during the first week," he said. "I think I read more in my first semester of law school than I did during my first three college degrees. But getting involved in the legal community helped me see that lawyers are just people who happen to have a job requiring continuing education."

His involvement extended beyond academics. As alumni chair for the Latin American Law Student Association, he worked to reconnect alumni with the school. Gomez also contributed to the Center for Racial and Criminal Justice Reform, conducting research and data analysis to explore how legal systems impact individuals in the state's rural areas.

Currently, Gomez is gaining hands-on legal experience at the Pulaski County Attorney's Office, handling bond forfeitures and assisting with appellate motions. These practical experiences have prepared him for the next phase of his career: moving to Dallas to work in business and immigration law after he passes the bar exam in February. His ultimate goal is to establish his own law firm, focusing on helping underserved communities. He is also planning to pursue a Ph.D. in finance and real estate in the future.

"I want to gain experience and build my reputation in the legal community," Gomez explained. "Once I am established, I want to have my own firm to help people who need help in areas like immigration, estate planning, personal injury, and criminal defense. I have been fortunate enough to win a trial. It's amazing when you see how much your help has helped someone change their life."