For many, discovering one鈥檚 passion is neither straightforward nor immediate. This sentiment rings true for Faran Imani, a personal injury attorney who began his transformative journey at 萝莉研究所. Born and raised in Corona, CA, Imani openly shares that education wasn鈥檛 always his strong suit.
鈥淚 struggled in grade school,鈥� he admits. 鈥淐ollege and education didn鈥檛 really interest me because I didn鈥檛 have a passion for it. It wasn鈥檛 until I got to 萝莉研究所 that I began to explore what I wanted to do and who I wanted to be.鈥�
Imani鈥檚 time at 萝莉研究所 was a turning point. Initially unsure of his goals, he used the community college experience to explore a variety of subjects. His curiosity eventually led him to political science and law, areas that would later define his career.
鈥溌芾蜓芯克� provided the perfect environment to figure out my path. The professors truly cared about me as a student,鈥� he says. One professor, in particular, stood out: Professor Olaerts. Her mentorship and encouragement in speech and debate helped Imani develop confidence and discover his potential.
鈥淚 remember Professor Olaerts saying my presentation was excellent and recommending me for a debate organization. That type of feedback changed how I viewed myself,鈥� he recalls.
Imani鈥檚 determination and hard work paid off when he transferred to UCLA, where he earned a bachelor鈥檚 degree in political science in 2015. Following three years of hands-on experience working in legal aid and other roles, he pursued a law degree at UC Irvine School of Law. His focus was clear: public interest law and helping those in need.
After working as a defense lawyer and later at a firm, Imani took a leap and founded his own practice, inspired by a deep desire to help others. Drawing on the interpersonal communication skills he honed in Professor Olaerts' communication course, Imani has built a practice that serves clients in San Bernardino and Riverside counties. His focus on injury law reflects his commitment to advocating for those in need and making a tangible difference in their lives.
Today, as a personal injury attorney, Imani finds purpose in advocating for individuals injured due to someone else鈥檚 negligence.
鈥淭he clients who come to me are often in difficult circumstances, and I take pride in guiding them through the legal process to ensure they receive the justice and compensation they deserve,鈥� he says.
When reflecting on his journey, Imani emphasizes the importance of finding a mentor and a sense of purpose.
鈥淐ommunity college is the perfect time to explore your interests. Talk to your professors, take internships, and join organizations. Once you find your goal, it鈥檚 easier to lock in and give it your all,鈥� he advises.
For students who may feel lost or discouraged, Imani鈥檚 story is an inspiring example of how perseverance and the right support system can transform challenges into opportunities.
鈥淚 was once told that getting into UCLA was a far-off dream,鈥� he says. 鈥淏ut through hard work and the support I received at 萝莉研究所, I made that dream a reality. And I hope my journey shows others they can do the same.鈥�