From the US Army to UW Law: Two Students Share Their Journey

From his earliest days at Joint Base Lewis McChord, Robert Dowling, 2L, felt the positive impact of how a military career would shape his future as a leader, and ultimately a practicing attorney. Monica Smith, 2L, also felt the transformative power of the military and credits her time in the Army as leaving an indelible mark on her life and career.

Dowling, a retired Army veteran, and Smith, a captain in the Army, both come from rich military lineages. Dowling’s grandfathers were veterans and Smith’s father, uncle and grandparents also served, with her sister currently on active duty.

From common roots in family legacies of service, Dowling and Smith have found different paths for their future careers. Dowling aspires to practice law in the civilian sector, while Smith will join the United States Army Judge Advocate General’s (JAG) Corps after graduation.
Their stories of service and sacrifice convey the spirit that defines Veterans Day. Follow along as UW Law honors them — and all U.S. veterans — on this special day.