For Zona Watson 25L, the decision to pursue a law degree at Emory University was deeply personal, rooted in years of frontline experience in child welfare. Watson reflects on her journey, her aspirations, and the impactful experiences that have shaped her legal ambitions.

When deciding on where to obtain her master of laws degree, she noticed Emory’s Barton Clinics, within the Barton Child Law and Policy Center. These clinics she notes, directly aligned with her previous career as a child protective investigator and later as a foster care worker. "My goal in coming to Emory Law was to concentrate on child welfare and its many facets and to participate in the Barton Center."

The transition back to academia after a decade away was not without its anxieties. "I had been out of school for about 10 years, and I did not know if I would be able to keep up or if I would be able to maintain the course load along with everyday life," Watson admits. Balancing the demands of law school with raising two teenage children also presented a significant concern.

"I felt nervous before my first class. During class, it felt like riding a bike, and a rush of excitement came over me, like, yeah! This is exactly what I am supposed to be doing with my life!" she recounts.

Looking ahead, Watson has a clear vision for her legal career. "My hope is to work as a child’s attorney or parents attorney. I would love to work in Fulton County’s prosecutor’s office. I also want to do mediations and alternative dispute resolution with families who have child custody concerns." Her ambitions extend beyond direct legal practice, with an eye towards influencing policy and potentially even seeking public office after gaining more experience.

Watson emphasizes the unwavering support of her parents, EJ and Cheryl Julien, who have championed her dream of becoming a lawyer since childhood. She also praises the supportive environment within Emory Law itself, saying, "The professors are kind and willing to help in any way necessary to bring about clarity."

Notably, Watson credits Melissa Carter, executive director of the Barton Center, as her favorite professor, highlighting her "wealth of knowledge" and passion for engaging students through hands-on learning. "She took me into the program and provided me with an opportunity of a lifetime."

Carter says of Watson: "Zona dove into her clinical experience with passion and purpose. She took advantage of every opportunity we offered, within the clinic and beyond the walls of Emory. As a result of her active involvement, motivation, and deep connection to the experiential learning process, Zona learned how to use the law to change lives. She is a curious, eager participant, with a clear desire to understand and apply her knowledge for the benefit of others. She modeled the effort we expect from all our students and inspired and encouraged others to learn and grow into effective advocates."