March 10, 2025

SCALE Student Spotlight: Nadya Bayliss '24, on Embracing Challenges and Advocating for Change

When Nadya Bayliss first set foot on the Southwestern Law School campus, she knew she was about to embark on an extraordinary journey. Choosing the SCALE program wasn’t just about completing law school at an accelerated pace—it was about preparing herself for the realities of legal practice. She wanted a program that would push her, challenge her, and ultimately shape her into the attorney she aspired to become.

From the very beginning, Nadya understood that law school would demand more than just long hours and dedication. It would require adaptability, resilience, and a mindset focused on the bigger picture. But that was precisely what she was looking for. Nadya knew a rigorous law school experience would prepare her best for the demands of being a practicing attorney. She also knew that engaging in real-world experiences during law school was the key to stepping into her legal career with confidence.

“I was drawn to SCALE because I knew the hands-on learning opportunities offered in the program would challenge me and prepare me for the demands of legal practice,” she reflects. “I didn’t want to walk into the courtroom or sit down at the negotiation table without the opportunity to practice those skills. SCALE gave me that opportunity.”

The SCALE Program’s hands-on learning opportunities, such as the Evidence Labs, allowed Nadya to apply her skills in real-world settings, enhancing her legal education. Balancing the demands of law school wasn’t easy, but she learned to manage it all through discipline, adaptability, and the support of her SCALE cohort. With the support of her close-knit cohort, she built a strong network that helped her navigate any challenges that arose.

She explains, “My ability to succeed in law school stems from the close relationships I have built with my classmates in the SCALE program. When challenges arise, I know I’m not alone. We support each other, push each other, and celebrate each other’s successes.”

Her passion for employment law and workers' compensation is deeply rooted in the belief that legal advocacy can drive meaningful change. She sees her legal education as a tool for addressing inequities such as the gender pay gap and workplace discrimination.

“The historical context of the ongoing fight for equality inspires my commitment to pursuing a legal career centered on justice and equity, particularly in employment law and workers' compensation. The persistent gender pay gap affecting women, along with the broader challenges faced by marginalized communities, reinforces my determination to advocate for meaningful change.”

For Nadya, diversity in the legal profession must be more than just a talking point, it must lead to tangible, measurable change. She is committed to ensuring that DEI initiatives result in real policy shifts that protect workers and promote fairness.

“I believe that the legal profession must actively address disparities in compensation, access, and career advancement, and I am committed to being part of that effort,” she states. “Diversity and inclusion in law cannot be merely performative; they must be intentional.”

In five years, Nadya envisions herself as a seasoned attorney specializing in employment law and workers’ compensation. She hopes to play a pivotal role in shaping workplace policies and advocating for fairness. Whether through litigation, negotiation, or policy work, she hopes to contribute to a legal landscape that prioritizes accountability and equitable outcomes in the workplace.

As she reaches the end of her journey with SCALE, her passion for justice, commitment to advocacy, and drive to uplift others set a strong foundation for the impact she hopes to make in the legal field.