Experience Producing Business-Minded Legal Solutions a Key Benefit for 3L Shan Pyarali 

Third-year law student Shan Pyarali applied legal strategy to real-world business challenges during his externship with Chime, a fintech company in San Francisco.

3L Shan Pyarali

• Gained experience at Chime, a financial technology company based in San Francisco, through UC Law SF’s Corporate Counsel Externship Program. 

• Grew up in Los Angeles and is interested in becoming a corporate attorney. 

• Learned how to provide practical guidance that supports business growth while maintaining legal compliance. 

Third-year law student Shan Pyarali discusses his work at Chime through UC Law SF’s Corporate Counsel Externship Program, in which students gain real-world experience in the legal departments of top companies and organizations.

What did you do in the Corporate Counsel Externship Program and why is the work important?

The Corporate Counsel Externship Program is more than just another class; it provides a unique blend of classroom learning and practical experience. I developed legal skills crucial for any aspiring in-house counsel. 

I learned important skills like how to redline a contract, which involved strategically editing an agreement to ensure fairness and balance between the parties, and appreciated the emphasis on concise legal writing, which challenged us to analyze complex issues and provide clear, one-paragraph recommendations – similar to what may be expected when advising corporate leadership.

I then applied these skills at my partner company, working on real legal issues and gaining invaluable insight into the role of in-house counsel.

The experience with real-world issues in-house taught me how to creatively craft legal recommendations that mitigate risk and align with the company’s mission. By thinking strategically and considering the company’s goals, I learned how to provide practical guidance that supports business growth while maintaining legal compliance.

How does this experience support your career goals?

The program provided invaluable hands-on experience in aligning legal strategy with business objectives. As a future corporate attorney, I understand how to assess risk and provide business-minded solutions that support long-term growth. By engaging directly with stakeholders from various departments, I gained a deeper understanding of company operations. 

Would you recommend UC Law SF and this clinic? Why?

I would absolutely recommend both UC Law SF and the Corporate Counsel Externship Program. I had the privilege of learning from two incredible professors who are invested in their students’ success. I also met an amazing in-house legal team, where I gained mentors who genuinely care about helping students navigate their careers. They all went above and beyond to support my growth. When I reflect on my law school experience, this program stands out as a defining opportunity that brought me closer to my career goals.

What’s your favorite UC Law SF memory so far?    

The Barrister’s Ball is one of my favorite events – a night when the entire school comes together to celebrate, unwind, and hit the dance floor. 

The Evidence of Success series highlights UC Law SF students as they share how the college’s opportunities equip them with the experience, skills, and confidence to excel in the legal profession.