When Azul Rodriguez Martinez spoke, it became clear that her journey and vision for the future were anything but ordinary.

Azul, a Union County Early College (UCEC) junior, spoke with an intensity and thoughtfulness that transcended her years. With a dream of becoming a lawyer that took root in her childhood, she has taken deliberate steps to turn that dream into reality.

“I always knew I wanted to be a lawyer,” she said. “My parents told me it was a great goal, but it would be a long process—years of schooling. I didn’t even know UCEC existed until my cousins mentioned it. When I got accepted, I thought, ‘Let me take this opportunity and see if I like it.’ I ended up loving it.”

Her decision to stay at UCEC was motivated by the opportunities it offers.

“You get two years of college for free, and the academics align with preparing you for what comes next. It was a no-brainer for someone like me who is serious about my future.”

What sets Azul apart is not just her ambition but also her sense of purpose. When asked about the type of law she hopes to practice, she responded without hesitation.

“Corporate law is interesting to me because I love the business aspect, but I also want to make time for pro bono work in family law. That’s where my heart is.”

Her inspiration to become a lawyer stems from her desire to fight for justice and ensure that people's voices are heard.

"I want to be the person who helps others speak their truth," she said. "Even if someone doesn’t win their case, they should at least feel like their voice matters. That’s what drives me."

UCEC has given Azul more than just academic rigor; it has given her a voice and confidence. Through the Student Government Association and the school’s ambassador program, she has experienced the power of advocacy firsthand.

“It’s about representing others,” she said. “It’s about making sure that, no matter who someone is, they have someone speaking up for them.”

In the summer of 2024, Azul’s commitment to her future took a significant leap forward when she was accepted into two prestigious law-focused programs: one at Wake Forest University and the other at Yale University through the National Student Leadership Conference.

At Wake Forest, she explored various areas of law and engaged with actual law professors. At Yale, she participated in a weeklong residential program that included coursework, leadership development, and her favorite part—a full mock trial.

“I used to think litigation wasn’t for me,” she said. “But going through the mock trial, learning courtroom etiquette, and creating arguments was so exciting. I realized I could do this—and, not only that, I love it.”

Assigned to the defense team, Azul collaborated with her peers to dissect the case, strategize, and develop arguments and counterarguments.

“It taught me how to think on the spot, how to break a big problem down, and how to present my ideas. I use those skills every day now—in class, in leadership roles, and even in helping underclassmen.”

She laughed as she recalled her joy in research—something many students dread.

“I love it. You need to understand everything to build a good argument. I’m helping teach a research lesson in our inquiry class. Research is everywhere—it’s not just for law; it’s a skill for life.”

This drive to share her experiences has become one of her newest passions. After finding both programs through online searches, Azul now encourages her classmates to pursue similar opportunities.

“I had a friend mention summer programs in passing, and it planted the seed. I had to do the work to find them and apply, but I want it to be easier for others. I’ve started talking to students about it—letting them know what’s out there, because a lot of them don’t realize these programs exist.”

As for the next step in her journey, Azul has her sights set high. She recently toured the University of Georgia and Wake Forest and has applied to a nine-week pre-college program at New York University.

But no matter where she ends up, her purpose is clear.

“If I could advise anyone, it would be this: Be comfortable being uncomfortable. You won’t grow unless you challenge yourself. I never thought I’d enjoy litigation, but I stepped into something new and discovered that I loved it. That’s how you find your passion—you try, even when it’s scary.”

Her eyes lit up as she spoke about how different people interpret law and how those interpretations shape our world.

“The law is the law,” she said, “but how we understand it, how we apply it—that’s where the human part comes in. That’s what makes it so powerful.”

With a deep sense of justice, a growing toolkit of academic and leadership skills and a commitment to giving others a voice, Azul is not just preparing for law school; she is already advocating, researching and leading. UCEC is helping her get there.

04/28/2025