Student Spotlight: Gabrielle Rancifer

Why did you choose to pursue a J.D. and what do you plan to do with your degree after graduation?

I earned my Bachelor of Science in journalism, minor in Spanish and Master of Science in journalism from Northwestern University. My background in journalism made me realize how your words, ability to communicate, and grasp of complex legal concepts truly impact the lives of others. I enjoy knowing that as a lawyer, my words will facilitate positive action at a faster rate than as a journalist.

Q. What are some opportunities that you engaged in during your time at law school?

Gabi RanciferWhile my last year will be bittersweet, I look forward to sharing things I have learned throughout my time at the law school with rising upperclassmen. I have actively participated in many facets of the law school community, including:

  • Pro Bono Board - Inaugural Member
  • Dean’s Student Ambassador
  • Arkansas Law Review - Staff Editor, Note & Comment Editor
  • Dean’s Pro Bono Service Recognition - Fall 2024
  • Delta Initiative Pro Bono Trip - Fall 2024 Participant, Fall 2025 Student Leader
  • Board of Advocates - Moot Court Competition Chair
  • Travel Moot Court - Fall 2024 Team Member
  • Dean’s List for multiple semesters
  • P.E.O. Scholar Nominee; Shook Scholar; Pulaski County Bar Foundation’s Justice Donald L. Corbin Scholar; Moberly Scholar; Arkansas Bar Foundation’s U.M. Rose Scholar
  • Research Assistant to Professor Uche Ewelukwa Ofodile
  • Native American Law Student Association - Treasurer (2025-26), President (2024-25), Secretary (2023-24)
  • Intellectual Property Law Student Association - President (2024-25), Symposium Chair (2025-26)
  • Federalist Society - Treasurer (2024-25), President (2025-26)
  • Black Law Student Association - 2L Representative (2024-25)

Q. What has been your favorite part or most rewarding part of law school?

My favorite part of law school so far is founding UARK Law's Annual World Intellectual Property Day Symposium and receiving an offer to publish my law review article with Michigan State University.

Q. How did you spend your summer?

I worked with Kutak Rock’s Intellectual Property & Technology Transactions practice group in Omaha, where the firm is based, for 12 weeks.

Q. Tell us something interesting about yourself that we couldn’t learn from reading your resume.

I am actively working to restore my family’s 100+ acre farm in Desha County, Arkansas. The LL.M. classes at UARK Law have been instrumental in giving me the legal foundation and confidence to take on the task. I also use my Spanish language skills to interpret at legal clinics, and I sing at various law school sponsored events.