AYLA
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Tell us a little bit about yourself and your law practice.
This really is an honor. I am a huge advocate for AYLA as an amazing organization that I firmly believe sets a good foundation for attorneys. I was born and raised outside Philadelphia. My path to Austin was a bit winding. I went to Penn State undergrad, then I spent time in North Platte and Lincoln, Nebraska, before landing in San Antonio where I attended St. Mary’s University School of Law. Eventually, I found my way to Austin, and I couldn’t be happier about how things worked out.
Currently, I’m an attorney at Zinda Law Group, where our practice focuses on personal injury law. We work with people during some of the most challenging moments of their lives. It is an honor helping families across Texas through various tort matters. Our goal is two-fold: first, to help clients navigate what can be an incredibly overwhelming legal process, and second, to fight for the justice and compensation they deserve. Knowing that we’re making a tangible difference in families’ lives when they need it most makes it rewarding.
How long have you been involved in AYLA and what has been your best AYLA experience so far?
I joined AYLA while I was still in law school, which turned out to be one of the best decisions I made. I was genuinely curious about the legal landscape in Austin. I wanted to know what the community was like, how attorneys practiced here, etc., and AYLA seemed like the perfect way to get connected.
What I didn’t expect was just how welcoming the organization would be. I was fortunate enough to meet some truly exceptional attorneys early on, including Jenna Malsbary, who’s now AYLA’s president. Jenna went out of her way to make sure I felt welcomed at every event and took advantage of every learning opportunity that came my way. That kind of generosity set the tone for my experience with AYLA.
The monthly docket calls [are the best experience] because they give you the chance to meet, discuss, and learn from attorneys who are experienced in various types of law.
What was your childhood dream job?
I didn’t have a moment where I thought, “That’s it, that’s what I want to do with my life.” I think that worked out for the best because it allowed me to stay open to different possibilities. I grew up intrigued by world events, history, and politics, and that led me to the news before and during law school.
Getting to help people through some of their darkest days, advocating for them when they’re at their most vulnerable is truly fulfilling in ways I couldn’t have imagined as a child. There’s something deeply meaningful about being the person someone can turn to when their world has been turned upside down by an injury or tragic life event. While I might not have dreamed about being a personal injury attorney when I was younger, I feel like I’ve found work that aligns with my values and gives me a genuine sense of purpose.
What are some of the things you enjoy most about living in Austin?
Austin has so much going for it, and if I had to narrow it down, I’d say it comes down to three things: the welcoming people, the constant energy, and the outdoor opportunities.
First, the people here are genuinely kind and welcoming. There’s this openness in Austin. People are willing to connect, to help each other out, to build community, to even grab coffee or lunch. That’s been especially important for me as someone who moved here without an established network.
Second, the city has this vibrancy and electricity that keeps things exciting.
And finally, Austin’s commitment to green spaces, trails, and outdoor recreation is incredible. I love that you can have such an active, outdoor-oriented lifestyle right in the heart of a major city. It’s that perfect blend of urban amenities and natural beauty that makes Austin special.
What’s your best piece of advice for young attorneys?
I’m still learning so much myself every single day. I have found great leaders, mentors, and friends who I probably pepper with too many questions. The law is constantly evolving, and so is our understanding of how to practice it effectively. Daily commitment to growth has been essential for me.
I see the attorneys who really excel in this profession are the ones who never stop being students of the law. I will end with the classic cliché of making sure I stay humble and stay hungry.