Meet Diego Salazar, 2L, and learn more about his story at South Texas Law in this Student Spotlight by the Career Resource Center.
Q: Name & class year?
A: Diego J. Salazar – 2L – Cohort 2025
Q: Why did you choose to attend South Texas College of Law Houston?
A: I chose STCL Houston primarily because of its location and well-connected alumni network. Beginning my legal career in the largest city in Texas and the fourth largest city in the U.S offers me access to a diverse legal market, numerous law firms and corporations, and endless global opportunity. Last year I was able to explore specialized law firms and legal practices, allowing me to experience a wide range of legal fields that have helped me find my niche. Being in a major urban center also allows me to connect with a diverse and extensive professional network of legal practitioners, alumni, and organizations, which have been instrumental thus far.
Q: Where are you working next summer?
A: Next summer, I will be joining HMH as a 2024 summer associate in their Houston office. HMH has been manufacturing industry-leading drilling equipment for over 125 years and has created one of the drilling industry’s most comprehensive portfolio of products, systems, and services for onshore and offshore drilling, subsea and onshore mining, and construction applications.
Q: How did you secure that employment opportunity?
A: In the latter part of July, just prior to the start of the semester, my attention was drawn to several firms and businesses participating in the early session of on-campus interviews. After researching the participants, I submitted applications for five positions and proceeded to interview with the companies and firms that expressed a keen interest in my candidacy. Following a series of callback interviews, I ultimately accepted an offer to join HMH next summer.
Q: How did the Career Resource Center (CRC) help you successfully navigate the recruitment process?
A: The CRC played a vital role in helping me prepare and carefully proofread my application materials. Having another set of eyes from the CRC gave me the confidence to know my application would reflect the best version of myself.
Q: What are your career goals for the future?
A: Upon graduation, I plan to secure a position with a law firm or corporation that specializes in construction and energy law. I lean toward staying in-house and believe such a position would provide me with a deeper understanding of the unique legal challenges and intricacies that these sectors face, as well as the opportunity to contribute to strategic decision-making processes as a business partner. Long-term, I envision myself becoming a trusted advisor in my chosen field, playing a key role in helping clients navigate complex legal matters, negotiate contracts, resolve disputes, and achieve their business objectives. Ultimately, I hope to make a meaningful impact on the Houston-area construction and energy industry while continuing to grow as a legal professional.
Q: What piece of advice would you share with the future generation of South Texas College of Law Houston students going through recruitment?
A: I personally believe recruitment is 80% preparation and 20% personality. Your first legal interview can be daunting to think about so do yourself a favor and learn as much as you can about the company, position, and opportunity you’re applying for. The preparation doesn’t stop there! Look up your interviewers, identify their interests and accomplishments and use all this information to pivot your interview into directions that are most favorable for you. It doesn’t take the personality of a “people person” to do well. If you’re well prepared to lead the conversation, you’ll naturally display a sense of readiness and excitement that will stand out to employers.
Q: Which professors have influenced you and or your career path the most?
A: At South Texas, I’ve truly learned the power of the pen. Skillful legal writing, negotiation, and advocacy have the potential to resolve disputes, set precedents, and influence decisions peacefully – unlike physical force or confrontation. A special thanks to Professors Amanda Peters and Michael Whitmire for their guidance in honing this skill.
Q: What student organizations have you been involved with?
A: I am currently an editor for the Construction Law Journal, a student member of the Dean Garland Walker American Inn of Court, a mentee of the Hispanic Bar Association of Houston, a State Bar of Texas Student Division member, and a mentee for the Leadership Council on Legal Diversity.
Q: Beyond the Career Resource Center, how has the South Texas Law community supported your growth?
A: The law school has provided access to knowledgeable professors who provide unparalleled guidance, a network of peers for collaboration and discussion, valuable resources for research and learning, and opportunities for practical experience through internships and student competitions.
