ASU Law grad looks forward to degree helping to grow her career and life learnings

Editor's note: This story is part of a series of profiles of notable fall 2020 graduates.

As an employed single mother of two, Meghan Kammer saw the Master of Legal Studies (MLS) program at the Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law at Arizona State University as a natural way to further her interest in the study of law while continuing to advance her career.

Kammer, now a fall ASU Law MLS candidate, says a promotion at the local utility company she currently works for motivated her to pursue the master’s degree with an emphasis in sustainability and human resources and employment.

“Having knowledge and understanding of law and sustainability are keys that will unlock future success and growth in my career,” said Kammer, who also earned her bachelor’s degree in business administration from ASU.

As a mom and full-time student, studying in person and online, Kammer continued to work full time throughout her academic journey. “I learned that I am more capable than I had originally given myself credit for,” she said. “I have been in school for the past five years, and I am about to receive my master’s degree. That is huge for me, and something I did not see myself accomplishing.”

Question: Why did you choose ASU?

Answer: Honestly, I chose to attend ASU because of the reputation the school maintains. I had heard nothing but good things about ASU when I moved to Arizona (from Muncie, Indiana) five years ago and made the decision to enroll at ASU a little over a year later. Being No. 1 in Innovation for several years running is quite the accomplishment and speaks volumes about the university itself, the professors they employ, and the students they teach. I am proud to be a Sun Devil.

Q: Which professor taught you the most important lesson while at ASU?

A: The most important lesson came from Jay Abramson, one of my math professors. I had the pleasure of being in his classroom twice when I was working toward my bachelor’s degree. Professor Abramson was extremely knowledgeable and was able to connect with his students on a personal level – he genuinely cared about everyone. I attended his office hours on a few occasions to get some clarification on how to solve complicated problems. He always gave a bit of life advice at the end of our meetings, and it was very much appreciated and needed — more than he realized, I’m sure. Professor Abramson did not need to give those little tidbits of wisdom, but he did. In doing so, he taught me to always be compassionate and open with others — you never know what the next person is going through. The smallest piece of advice, and just showing that you care, could make a world of difference for someone.

Q: What’s the best piece of advice you’d give to those still in school?

A: No matter how hard it seems, don’t quit. Talk to your professors if you are having trouble — nine times out of 10, they will be understanding and will help you in any way they can. In my experience, the staff at ASU is an amazing group of people. Take your education seriously — it’s one, if not the biggest, of the determining factors of where you will go in life.

Q: If someone gave you $40 million to solve one problem on our planet, what would you tackle?

A: Simply, worldwide hunger. With malnutrition and hunger being one of the top risks to worldwide health, I would emphasize the importance of gardening and provide tools and education for individuals to utilize in order to grow some of their own food.