By Sheila Pursglove
Legal News
Tiffany Harvey’s interest with Asian culture started in elementary school, with anime and Japanese — but she was dismayed upon her arrival at University High School Academy in Southfield that only Chinese language classes were offered.
“Surprisingly, I found Chinese language and culture fascinating, and was entranced by writing with pictures — or Hanzi,” she said. “I found myself wanting to learn more about the language and culture, possibly for translation. Eventually, I majored in Asian studies, focusing on China, and paired that with International Studies to study countries around the world.”
Harvey graduated from the University of Michigan with a dual bachelor's degree in international studies and Asian studies.
The more Harvey learned about how the world and society work and the problems that exist, she recognized a lot of issues have to do with where power is concentrated and where it is not; and what resources are shared, and wh
“A lawyer, who is an advocate for people in a certain power structure, plays an important role in shaping the society whether it is by the cases they win that shape law, the people they assist, or the education they can provide society at large from their unique experience and knowledge base,” she said. “I want to help people who truly need it and be able to make structural changes that can create a better future.”
Now a rising 2L at Detroit Mercy Law, Harvey particularly appreciates her professors.
“I really feel having great experts and passionate educators makes a huge difference in your educational experience,” she said. “So far, I’ve loved every single one of my teachers and can tell they are truly knowledgeable and passionate about what they teach.”
Being a Dean’s Fellow has definitely been a blessing, she adds.
“While I appreciate the support financially, it shows to me a recognition of my efforts so far and faith in the work I intend to do as an attorney — both are indispensable,” she said.
Her particular interests lie in civil rights and environmental law.
“I want to protect both people — specially marginalized people — and the planet,” she said. “I can’t wait to take more specialized topics related to these fields. But my first major career goal is to graduate law school and pass the bar. I think attaining those would be amazing right now!”
Harvey will extern this summer with Dykema, and also clerk for U.S. District Judge Mark Goldsmith of the Eastern District of Michigan.
“I’m very grateful and excited for the opportunity,” she said.
Harvey has found remote studies helped her focus on getting work done.
“I was very hesitant at first since I truly believe in finding a study place in a library or special study spot around and burrowing in there, she said. “However, the teachers are engaging enough and the work is upfront enough for me to feel comfortable going to class online.
“I will say I miss seeing people in person and making more personal connections — the events by the CSO, BLSA and other groups are very helpful for encouraging meeting other people, thank goodness!”
In her leisure time, the Detroit native enjoys creative pursuits, including writing, drawing, dancing, playing harp and listening to music. She also loves learning and studying Chinese.
Harvey has wonderful memories of her June 2014 trip to study and intern in Beijing, her first excursion outside the U.S.
“I’ll never forget how down to earth the people felt, the high-speed train system and, of course, my internship experiences,” she said. “I volunteered to help at the Beijing Huiling Center for adults with disabilities as well as the Able Development Institute — ADI — run by a woman with disabilities who was trying to change policies around accessibility.”
Harvey also is studying for a master’s degree in Translation, Localization and Project Management from Middlebury Institute of International Studies at Monterey.
She who holds a certificate in Chinese Language and Literature from Middlebury College.
Meanwhile, Harvey works as a freelance translator, doing translations between Mandarin Chinese and American English for different mediums including academic presentations, brochures, instruction manuals, financial documents and cultural articles.
“My favorite thing about translation is the thinking process you have to use, especially in more creative translations where you’re considering the voice and expression in another language,” she said. “Even during law school, I hope to get more into volunteer and freelance translations and practice creative translation projects on my own.”
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