Abhaya Velmani ’22 Begins Law School Journey After Service
Tell me about your current role.
I just completed a year in AmeriCorps as a VISTA, supporting communities in poverty in the CSRA region of Georgia. Within my particular site, I educated community partners and families on a program called “The Basics.” It teaches simple ways to make the most out of a child’s formative years so that they do better in elementary school and beyond. I am beginning my law school journey this fall, hoping to further develop my professional skill sets while learning about our legal system. While my background has generally centered on the humanities, it is still interdisciplinary. So, I am not sure yet what field of law will be optimal for me. My “dream” would be a role that combines leadership, social justice, and interpersonal connection.
What did you study while at App State?
Bachelor’s (‘22): English Literary Studies, Master's (’23): Romance languages, Spanish College Teaching concentration
What advice would you give a current Wataugan?
Unlearn your fear of networking! It is not a word exclusive to events with people in business professional attire. It really is about showing up to the mentors, professors, classmates, leaders, etc. around you cordially, but as yourself! Honor these folks as i valuable resources, be in spontaneous or planned conversation with them, and ask and be asked questions, and see where that takes you.
How did Watauga help you grow?
It gave me the space to grow as a person, student, and leader all at once. As an 18-year-old entering college, I was yet to learn that such roles were, yes, unique but also deeply intertwined. Through dedicated mentors, meaningful friendships, and unique opportunities at WRC, I understood how to embrace that complexity within myself. This foundation helped me embrace complexity outside myself and see it less as a burden and more as a gift. Whether it be coworkers, fellow classmates, community leaders, or family, I show up to people with more integrity because I see them (and myself) as human beings with diverse and rich backgrounds — not simply as fillers of an “XYZ” role. I owe a lot of this ability to my first few years of college being integrated with WRC.