Kristen Weidus Ramsey ’09 began at Hiram College with the plan to major in biomedical humanities and possibly attend medical school after graduation. However, once she started taking classes from her professors in a range of academic disciplines, she thought that law school might be in her future instead. And as she took on several student leadership roles, she saw that she was developing the skills needed for a career in law.

Now, as a partner in the law firm Ruder Law, LLC, Ramsey represents students with special needs and their parents in cases regarding educational services. “I enjoy having the opportunity to fight for the rights of students and their families,” says Ramsey. “Being able to pursue my passion in my work is extremely fulfilling.” Ramsey began handling cases regarding special education services as a law student at the University of the District of Columbia David A. Clarke School of Law and has wanted to pursue that specialty ever since. She also speaks with parent groups and non-profit organizations, educating them on the rights of disabled students in schools.

Ramsey remembers well the environment at Hiram College that helped her to not only grow her skill set but to also expand her perspective. During a study abroad trip in her final year at Hiram, she had the opportunity to travel to China and visit with a local family for one weekend. Ramsey also feels that the campus events and organizations offered her an opportunity to explore new possibilities, even if they were outside of her comfort zone. “Take advantage of every opportunity,” says Ramsey. “Even if you think you are too busy or too tired to go to an event that interests you or to join a club that you are passionate about—do it!”