King Imani 25L, recently graduated from the juris master program at Emory University School of Law, is drawing on a robust background in business leadership and human resources as he plans his career in human resources. Imani chose Emory Law for its "strong reputation in both legal education and its commitment to fostering ethical and strategic thinking, particularly in the realm of human resources and employment law."

Reflecting on the start of his law school journey, Imani admitted to initial nervousness stemming from the rigorous curriculum and the fundamental shift in focus. "Having transitioned from a more business-oriented background, I was initially uncertain about the depth and pace of legal analysis and case law," he explained. The fact that he hadn't been in formal education since completing his doctorate in 2020 added to this apprehension. However, he noted that the institution's support system and his own commitment to adaptation quickly eased those concerns.

Imani vividly recalled the mix of "excitement and apprehension" before his first class. That apprehension soon gave way to excitement. "During the class, I was immediately engaged and absorbed in the material, finding the intellectual challenge stimulating and fulfilling. The experience made me wish I had gone to law school initially," he shared. The sense of accomplishment after that first class affirmed his decision to pursue legal studies.

Having taken on a concentration in Human Resource Management and Employment Law, Imani sees a direct connection between his legal studies and his extensive professional experience. "Given my background and professional experience in human resources, this concentration allows me to delve deeper into the intersection of legal frameworks and business practices, which is essential for effective organizational leadership which aligns with my doctoral concentration," he said.

"Closing in on the finish line feels incredibly rewarding and affirming. It’s a culmination of years of hard work, sacrifice, and intellectual growth," Imani reflected. While anticipating the next chapter, he also acknowledged the bittersweet nature of leaving the relationships and experiences gained during his time at Emory.

Looking ahead, Imani plans to leverage his law degree to advance his career as a strategic leader in human resources. His focus will be on organizational compliance, labor relations, and policy development. He envisions applying his expertise in consulting roles, corporate governance, or in a directorial capacity within organizations. Notably, Imani is already applying his legal knowledge in his current roles as an instructor of MBA courses at the University of Arizona and as a doctoral faculty member at the University of Phoenix.

When asked about his favorite class, Imani enthusiastically named Contracts, in particular the sections on contract modification and consideration. He says he found the subject matter closely aligned with his career interests, with the nuances of contract law and its practical application to real-world HR scenarios.

Professors Kamina Pinder, Leila Lawler and Holly McDaniel were his favorite instructors, he said. He lauded their "deep knowledge, practical insights, and ability to make complex legal concepts accessible." He further emphasized how their teaching fostered critical thinking and their mentorship proved instrumental in his development.

Imani credits his strong network of family, colleagues, and friends as his personal support system, acknowledging their unwavering encouragement and guidance. He also humorously mentioned their "overwhelm[ment] with how many degrees I have and continue to collect."

He praised Emory Law for providing "excellent support" throughout his academic journey, including academic advising, career services, professional development resources, and a merit scholarship. He noted the accessibility of professors and the efficiency of the administrative staff.