On Wednesday, October 21, 2026, Furqan Mohammed joined a panel of practicing attorneys at the First-Generation Law Student Association Career Panel at Chicago-Kent College of Law. As a first-generation lawyer himself, Furqan shared his own journey and the lessons he has learned building a career in law.
As a first-generation lawyer myself, it was especially meaningful to share my journey and connect with students who are navigating many of the same questions and challenges I once faced.
Furqan Mohammed
Three Ideas for First-Generation Law Students
- Chart your own path. There is no single blueprint for success in the legal profession. Furqan encouraged students to build careers that line up with their values, strengths, and purpose.
- Gain experience before hanging your own shingle. Running your own practice can be incredibly rewarding, but there is real value in learning from experienced attorneys, developing your skills, and building a strong foundation before you launch.
- Appreciate the significance of being first generation. For many first-generation students, there was no roadmap waiting at home. That can feel daunting, but it also creates a unique opportunity to pave the way for the people who come next.
Furqan’s Own Path
Furqan earned a BS in psychology at Loyola University Chicago and his JD at Loyola University Chicago School of Law, and later opened his own personal injury practice. Since August, he has spoken on the Pathway to Law panel in Morton Grove, served as main speaker at the first annual Muslim Pre-Law Conference in Lombard, and received SABA Chicago’s 2026 Community Leadership Award, in part for his commitment to mentoring students pursuing careers in law.
The legal profession is stronger when we create space for mentorship, access, and honest conversations about the many different ways to build a meaningful career.
Furqan Mohammed
The Panel
Furqan was joined by six fellow panelists:
- Sheldon Solow – Retired Partner, Arnold & Porter
- Honorable Judge Patricia Fallon – Cook County Circuit Judge, Domestic Relations Division
- April Espinoza – Attorney, Impact for Equity
- Ivana Bailey – Associate, Benesch Law
- Annie Goldstein – Health Law Associate, Hinshaw & Culbertson
- Andrés Sánchez – In-House Counsel, Illinois Bankers
Furqan thanked Sophia Jandry and the rest of the Chicago-Kent First Gen Board for the invitation, and his fellow panelists for sharing their insights and experiences. He left inspired by the students’ thoughtful questions, their ambition, and their willingness to forge their own paths forward.
A Resource for Law Student Organizations
If you are part of a law school or university student organization, please feel free to reach out if you would like Furqan to speak with your members about careers in law, the legal profession, or the path to law school and beyond.
At a Glance
- Wednesday, October 21, 2026, 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
- Morris Hall (10th floor), Chicago-Kent College of Law, 565 W. Adams St., Chicago
- Hosted by the Chicago-Kent First-Generation Law Student Association
- A career panel for first-generation law students
Guidance for Aspiring Lawyers
Furqan posts information for aspiring lawyers and young lawyers on his social channels. Follow @LawyerFurqan on Instagram and TikTok.
Furqan Mohammed represents injured clients across Chicago and the surrounding suburbs, and speaks regularly at schools, mosques, and community organizations throughout Chicagoland. More of that work is collected in the community.