Milpitas Unified School District

A third-year student at San Jose State University, majoring in Justice Studies and minoring in both Interdisciplinary Studies and Psychology, 2024 MUSD Middle College HS (MMCHS) alumna Dipanjot Kaur vividly recalls the moment she knew she wanted to pursue a career in law.

“Honors Government was the spark that lit my passion for the legal world,” said Dipanjot as she looked back on her scholastic experience. “In that classroom, Mr. Macatangay appointed me as Chief Justice during mock court cases, and for the first time, I could see myself in a role I never imagined before. That experience opened a door to the possibility of law, and through it, I discovered my calling.”

Dipanjot’s MMCHS experience “shaped the foundation of who I am today,” she said, as the now 18-year-old was able to complete a year of college credits prior to graduating from high school.

“That opportunity gave me the confidence to walk into higher education prepared and assured of my place,” Dipanjot said. “It was truly the preparation from MMCHS that gave me the tools to thrive. I often think back to the countless presentations we gave in class. At the time, they seemed small, but now I realize they built a confidence in me that carries into every lecture hall and courtroom debate I face today.”

Dipanjot is determined to become a lawyer, an advocate for justice, especially for those whose voices are often unheard. Dipanjot’s legal passion lies in civil rights. She wants her future work to help amplify the stories of those historically silenced. She cites cases like U.S. v. Bhagat Singh and the Central Park Five that reveal how the law can both harm and heal. This semester, she plans to join innocence projects and work alongside lawyers to fight for the wrongfully convicted.

Dipanjot will always remember the unwavering encouragement she received from MMCHS staff including Principal Scott, who was her champion for summer course enrollment and taught her the power of advocacy and compassion. “It may have seemed like a small favor to some, but to me, it was life-changing,” she explained. “That act of support reminded me that one person’s belief in you can reignite your own belief in yourself. Her willingness to fight for her students planted a seed in me, the desire to fight for others in the same way.”

Along with her academics, Dipanjot – who is currently building her own startup while chasing her  dream of becoming a lawyer – still relishes the friendships made and joyful moments during her high school years. “They remind me that success is not only about achievements, but also about cherishing the journey and the people who walk beside you along the way,” she said.

As for some words of wisdom for younger MUSD generations, Dipanjot shares that there is no perfect timeline for your dreams; don’t choose a career for money instead what lights a fire from within; and use your time wisely.

“For me, personal experiences guided me toward law, and it is that passion, not money, that pushes me through long nights of studying and will carry me through law school and beyond,” she said. “If there is one truth I’ve learned, it is this: passion is power. When you love what you do, every obstacle becomes fuel, every setback becomes a stepping stone. Let your passion carry you forward, and you will build a future that is not only successful, but unstoppable.