Meet the Class: Gabryella Carrelli, ’27
Professional Opera Singer Pivots to the Law
Classically trained opera singer Gabryella Carrelli, ’27, graduated from Texas State University in 2021 with a bachelor's degree in world languages and literature. Though she has been working as a professional opera singer for the last three years, she also has experience working as a paralegal at Tesla, where her focus was immigration. Fluent in three languages and learning a fourth, Carrelli is excited to add “legal expert” to her multiple talents and skills so she can make a difference advocating for immigrant communities, a cause that for her is very personal.
Please describe your background and professional path.
I am an immigrant to the United States and a professional opera singer. I also play the piano and flute and have been training classically since I was five. After graduation from university, I secured a job at an immigration law firm in Austin before starting to work at Tesla.
What key experiences have shaped you?
In 2021, I completed an opera role study of Sister Prejean from the opera Dead Man Walking. This was my first exposure to US legal concepts and was a great bridge for my love of music to the passion I now have for the legal field.
What motivated your decision to go to law school?
The most influential part of my three years of professional experience has been seeing how my work has impacted the lives of others. I am excited to further develop my knowledge of the legal field and necessary legal skills in law school to be the best resource possible for others.
Why did you select the University of Chicago Law School?
In deciding on a law school, I knew I wanted to be in an environment where I would be pushed to be the best student I could be. I am very impressed by the resources UChicago provides its students and the opportunities that I will have because of this university.
What do you plan to do with your legal education?
I am keeping an open mind for my future. I want to continue being challenged in my work and be in a position where I can see the impact my work has on others. I also want to continue some action, even if volunteering, with the immigrant community.
What is the thing you are most looking forward to about being a law student?
I am most excited to be in an environment with other amazing, driven students. I look forward both to being pushed academically alongside my peers and for the connections I will make in law school that will serve as my community in the future.
What are some of your hobbies or interests?
In addition to opera, piano, and the flute, I love baking and cooking. As an Italian/Colombian, food is a huge part of my culture, so I like learning traditional recipes and testing new combinations. I also love language learning and getting a grasp on the grammar rules of different languages.
What is a “fun fact” about you?
I speak three languages fluently (English, Spanish, and French) and am working on my fourth certification (Italian). I am also left-handed and like to ski!
Anything else you’d like to share?
I spent this summer traveling abroad and enjoying time with my family. Traveling and taking cooking classes in other countries is my favorite way to spend the holidays. I am super excited to meet the rest of the Class of 2027!