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Name: Danny McDermott
Degree: JD
Hometown: Tucson, AZ
Undergrad: University of Arizona
What motivated you to pursue a degree in law, and how has that motivation evolved throughout your time in law school?
Prior to law school, I worked for a health policy organization called the Kaiser Family Foundation. I was on a small team that studied the Affordable Care Act’s individual markets, and we produced analysis that tended to fuel the debate over whether to protect or repeal the ACA. It felt a little powerless to put out findings only to watch them be used to support opposing arguments. Watching that struggle play out really solidified for me that if research is how we understand the world, the law is how we shape it.
Why did you choose University of Arizona Law?
Having attended the University of Arizona for undergrad, I knew firsthand how much emphasis the school places on fostering cooperation between departments and the community. I had heard from faculty and students that the law school was no different and goes to great lengths to leverage the strengths of Tucson and the entire University. I have certainly found that to be true.
What area of law are you planning to specialize in, and what influenced this choice?
I am planning to specialize in health law. That said, when friends ask me what “health law” even entails, I have a hard time answering concisely because it is such an expansive field. But that is why I love it. Each day presents novel questions, and even seasoned health care attorneys often face issues they are entirely unfamiliar with. Health law tends to overlap with nearly every other area of the law.
Which courses or professors had the most significant impact on your legal education and why?
The writing professors—namely Professor Sylvia Lett and Professor Diana Simon—have been incredible resources for me. Not only do they teach the most foundational class in law school, but they give amazing career and life advice.
Also, Professor Tara Sklar has been an invaluable mentor. Professor Sklar is the best and most generous networker I have ever met. She has been instrumental in helping me build my CV, skillset and Rolodex.
What are your immediate plans post-graduation?
I will be working in-house as an Associate General Counsel for Tucson Medical Center (and their parent organization TMC HealthCare).
What will you miss most about University of Arizona Law?
I’m going to miss the privilege of coming to campus each day and getting to listen to sharp, interesting and well-spoken professors speak about topics they are passionate about.
What was your favorite school experience or extracurricular activity, and why?
Being a writing fellow was super fun. I had the pleasure of getting to experience Professor Lett’s class a second time. Helping the 1Ls work through the legal writing process definitely helped polish my own writing, too.
What are you most proud of while at Arizona Law?
Generally, just saying “yes” to opportunities to work with professors and practicing attorneys. At times, I felt overextended, but each of these projects turned into connections that will benefit me later (particularly as I am starting my career).
This interview has been edited for length. For the full interview, see here.
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