Meet the Class: Mae Farmer, ’27
Mental Health Advocate Aims to Make a Difference in Healthcare Policy
Mae Farmer, ’27, graduated from the University of Alabama with a Bachelor of Science in accounting and a Bachelor of Arts in psychology with a minor in criminal justice. She always knew she wanted to study law and use it as a vehicle for social change, particularly in the area of mental health—a cause she cares deeply about.
Please describe your professional background and path.
For as long as I can remember, I have wanted to attend law school, so throughout my undergraduate career I sought opportunities to gain experience towards that goal. I interned for a nonprofit, a county judge and commissioner, and for the Indiana state government within the Division of Mental Health and Addiction.
What key experiences have shaped you?
My passion for mental health advocacy has led to experiences that continue to enrich my personal and professional life. I have worked with several nonprofits, created my own blog and initiative focused on raising awareness, and been recognized with several service-based distinctions at my undergraduate institution.
What motivated your decision to go to law school?
By gaining a legal education, I believe I can be a voice for individuals, businesses, and causes that I care deeply about. I think it is especially important to see more business-minded people engage in the humanities to enact greater change, so I hope to do just that.
Why did you select the University of Chicago Law School?
I chose the University of Chicago Law School based on several factors including the spectacular reputation, location, and academic offerings. Specifically, the blend of economics and law was hugely important in my decision. I know that by coming to UChicago, I will have endless opportunities and become well-equipped to achieve my goals.
What do you plan to do with your legal education?
After graduation, I hope to gain more judicial and governmental experience through a federal clerkship. I also would like to get exposure to a variety of different cases by working at a large firm early in my career. Eventually, I plan to work for healthcare policy reform.
What is the thing you are most looking forward to about being a law student?
I am most excited to learn from my classmates, professors, and others associated with UChicago. I know these next few years will push me out of my comfort zone, and I'm looking forward to gaining an abundance of knowledge by connecting with my peers from backgrounds different than my own.
What are some of your hobbies or interests?
Some of my hobbies include trying new and unique foods, photography, competing in pageants, modeling, baking, and traveling. In fact, this past summer I spent nine weeks traveling to over thirty cities across Europe. Throughout my trip, I explored the theme of advocacy as a recipient of The University of Alabama Ramsey Award Great Ideas Tour.
What is a “fun fact” about you?
People are often surprised to learn that I was adopted from China when I was eleven months old, and I have two older brothers that are ten and twenty years older than me.
Anything else you’d like to share?
I am excited to start this new chapter, and I will always be down for studying together, exploring Chicago, and making memories. I hope to find some lifelong friends at UChicago, so I look forward to meeting everyone!