December 10, 2024

Educator by day, ASU Law student by night

Editor’s note: This story is part of a series of profiles of notable fall 2024 graduates.

During her time studying at Arizona State University, Margaret Zahm spent her days filling the minds of high schoolers in Michigan then hopping onto her computer in the evening to complete her Master of Legal Studies (MLS) at the Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law.

Now, this fall, she's graduating, and on Dec. 18, she will take center stage as the fall 2024 Outstanding Graduate and student speaker for the ASU Law Convocation Ceremony. 

Zahm was adopted from Russia when she was 13 months old. From a young age, her parents always encouraged higher education, leading her down the path she’s on now.

It was when Zahm graduated with her undergraduate degree that a friend encouraged her to pursue a passion she had for the legal field. Now, she's working toward taking the next step as a Juris Doctor student at ASU Law.

In the below Q&A, Zahm elaborates on her law journey and gives advice to those seeking a similar path.

Note: Answers may have been edited lightly for length and/or clarity.

Question: What is an interesting moment, story or accomplishment from your ASU Law career?

Answer: Using the Johnny Depp and Amber Heard trial as an example in a course, several classmates were excited about its connection to the material. We were learning about the evidentiary concept of "opening the door," which essentially permits the introduction of otherwise inadmissible evidence to correct a misleading or incomplete assertion of fact.

Heard mentioned a rumor about Kate Moss, Depp's ex-girlfriend during her testimony. This seemingly innocent reference allowed Depp's attorneys to call Moss to the stand as a means of discrediting Heard's testimony. It was a unique moment in which we all got to relate to and comprehend the law in a very tangible way.

Q: What was your “aha” moment when you realized you wanted to study the field you majored in?

A: During my undergraduate, I had the privilege of working on several research projects that explored how the law can be used to unite people but also to restrict and divide.

As someone who was adopted from Russia at a young age, much of my experience with the legal system was spent trying to comply with specific restrictions and categorizations implemented by both my nation of origin and the United States. Realizing that such experiences were not exclusive to me, but more importantly that many people throughout history experienced far more grievous injustices in this regard, ignited an intense desire to learn how I could promote differences as a positive contribution to the legal system, rather than something to be feared and controlled.

Q: What’s something you learned while at ASU Law — in the classroom or otherwise — that surprised you or changed your perspective?

A: My time at ASU Law taught me that a diversity of viewpoints is instrumental to truly rewarding discussion. The unique career paths and lives of my fellow classmates encouraged me to explore novel topics and angles in every class discussion. Having the privilege of learning alongside students who were often twice my age allowed me to learn invaluable lessons about real-world legal applications. Even though we only communicated virtually, I felt closely connected with my fellow ASU Law students.

Q: Why did you choose ASU Law?

A: I chose ASU Law because it was the only program that combined a rigorous learning environment with the flexibility to continue in my high school teaching position. As an educator, I strive to foster a deep intellectual curiosity within my students, which often necessitates a rigorous learning environment.

My end goal is always to inspire a passion for the material while simultaneously equipping students with the skills they need to evaluate the world around them critically. ASU Law not only increased my passion for the area of law but equipped me with those same evaluative skills, enabling me to educate while being educated.

Q: Which professor taught you the most important lesson while at ASU Law?

A: Professor Joey Dormady taught me that even though our legal institutions are deeply powerful, individual actors are capable of effecting monumental positive change through little actions. From continuing to educate themselves about new forensic methodologies to more fully considering an individual's background, attorneys and judges can help foster a more equitable criminal justice system through their everyday practice.

Q: What’s the best piece of advice you’d give to those still in school?

A: Take things one day or even one task at a time. It's okay if you don't get everything you want done in a single session. Always remember to take days off to rest and spend time with your friends and family. In the end, no single grade or assignment will define your journey.

Q: What was your favorite spot on campus, whether for studying, meeting friends or just thinking about life?

A: My favorite spot for power studying was (and still is) Dozer Coffee in Ann Arbor, Michigan. While my go-to order is a hot vanilla latte, they always have several unique monthly specials, like the sweet potato pie latte and pear honey latte. I also appreciate that their tables are large enough for all of my textbooks and notepads!

Q: What are your plans after graduation?

A: I am waiting to hear back from ASU Law for admission to the JD program starting in the fall of 2025. Between graduation and then, I plan on taking a few months off to pursue new hobbies like rock climbing, refresh my Russian language skills and take an international trip with my husband.

Q: If someone gave you $40 million to solve one problem on our planet, what would you tackle?

A: I’d promote equitable access to educational resources. Along with my students who struggle with learning disabilities, thousands of other students across America could benefit greatly from additional aid. Access to after-school programs and trained tutors often vary widely based on geography and wealth, and I would love to expand these options to give all children a fundamentally supportive and robust education.

Written by Crystal Jimenez