Meet the Class: Ritik Shah, ’27
UChicago Grad with a Passion for Science and Technology
Ritik Shah, ’27, earned his bachelor’s degree in biological sciences from the University of Chicago two years ago. After getting his master’s in biotechnology, he is back at the University because he is interested in using the law to bridge the gap between the science and non-science sectors.
Please describe your professional background and path.
After years of researching epigenetics, I eventually pivoted toward applied biotechnology, gaining an interest in translational work. My experience working at Penn’s Center for Innovation and my interest in reading and writing led me to pursue a career in law with the idea of specializing in intellectual property and technology law.
What key experiences have shaped you?
As an undergraduate at UChicago, I organized our Model UN conference and learned the power of respectful discourse. At the same time, a class on science communication revealed the gap between science and the public, inspiring me to use my voice and expertise to help bridge this divide.
What motivated your decision to go to law school?
I decided to go to law school because professionally I want to help bridge the gap between science and non-science using the widespread medium that is law. Law school also aligns with my personal goals of challenging my beliefs, surrounding myself with other inquisitive minds, and gaining fulfillment from learning.
Why did you select the University of Chicago Law School?
In addition to loving Chicago as a city, I felt that UChicago was very interdisciplinary and put great emphasis on being open-minded and learning from both professors and peers.
What do you plan to do with your legal education?
I applied to law school with the goal of eventually becoming a patent lawyer but I’m welcoming of different career paths. Ultimately, I want to try and stay surrounded by science as much as possible and find a career that will allow me to interact with cutting edge technology.
What is the thing you are most looking forward to about being a law student?
I’m really looking forward to meeting all my fellow classmates! I’ve heard a lot about the diversity of paths that people take to reach law school and I think I’ll find myself learning a lot from the people around me.
What are some of your hobbies or interests?
I’ve always enjoyed taking in art whether it be music, film, literature, or visual arts. However, over the past few years I’ve started making art in the form of digital art and sketching. I make no claims to actually being talented, but I find the activity itself engaging.
What is a “fun fact” about you?
A fun fact about me is that I listen to four or five new albums every week. I love finding new genres that I like and I can talk about music endlessly. While I don’t consider myself a musician, I did play saxophone and cajon for a few years growing up.
Anything else you’d like to share?
My favorite location around campus is the Japanese Garden in Jackson Park.