Villasoto, a criminal justice major with a minor in writing, is a first-generation college student who aspires to attend law school and become a practicing attorney in Guam. She hopes to use her legal education to provide accessible legal representation while contributing a resilient, community-centered perspective to Guam’s legal field.

The TRIALS program is one of the most selective pre-law initiatives in the United States, accepting only 20 students nationwide each year. The fully funded, yearlong program includes a five-week residential summer component held at either Harvard or NYU and provides intensive LSAT preparation, pre-law coursework, and mentorship. Villasoto is the first student from Guam selected for the program’s 2026 cohort.

“I applied not only to strengthen my own law school journey, but also to create pathways for other students from Guam,” Villasoto said. “We have limited access to pre-law resources, and I hope this opportunity helps open doors for others who aspire to become attorneys.”

Villasoto credited support from UOG’s Enrollment Management & Student Success Office and the Triton Advising Center for helping her prepare a competitive application. Through the center’s career readiness workshops, she refined her resume and developed the confidence needed to navigate three rounds of interviews.

As she prepares to begin the program, Villasoto said she is looking forward to collaborating with peers from diverse backgrounds while preparing for the LSAT and the law school application process. She also hopes to represent Guam on a national stage and highlight the potential of students from the island.

“I’m excited to show the world the talent of Guam’s students and our capacity for success when given the right opportunities and support to dream higher,” she said.

Villasoto encouraged fellow Tritons to pursue opportunities beyond their comfort zones and seek support systems along the way.

“The most courageous thing you can do is ask for help and apply even when you’re scared,” she said. “Don’t let assumptions make you complacent. Instead, pursue what you believe is necessary for your journey, push past your doubt, and trust in your ability to grow through it.”