As he finishes his time at UConn Law, Paul Alderete ’25 says his biggest takeaway is the need to keep learning. While he’s gained a solid foundation over the past few years, he has also come to appreciate that the law is vast and ever evolving. There is always more to learn.

Alderete became fascinated with the intersection between science and the law after being exposed to cross-curriculum courses dealing with law, policy, and philosophy while studying environmental geoscience at Boston College. That curiosity turned into an interest in environmental law. He came to law school wanting the opportunity to think creatively and address complex issues while serving others in an impactful way.

“I’m grateful for how supportive the UConn Law community is,” he says “Both current students and alumni go out of their way to help each other and offer mentorship. The culture at UConn Law fosters collaboration.”

During his time at UConn Law, Alderete served on the boards of both the Energy and Environmental Law Society and the Latinx Law Students’ Association. He was also an Executive Editor on the Connecticut Law Review and an active member of the UConn Law Soccer Club and Basketball Club.

He says there isn’t one specific thing he thinks every UConn Law student should do because everyone’s path is different, but that it’s important to explore your passions by getting involved on campus.

Alderete’s favorite memories include visiting ISO New England with his Renewable Energy Law class to learn about New England’s bulk power grid, tutoring middle school students at the Covenant Preparatory School in Hartford, and unwinding after a busy week with the Soccer Club.

After graduation, Alderete will be serving as a judicial clerk for the Connecticut Supreme Court and then will join Robinson & Cole LLP as an associate in their Hartford office.