Izaak Martinez
BA Degree in Organizational Communication
with a minor in Political Science
Hello! I am Izaak Martinez,
Welcome to my Portfolio where I will display some of my work, career trajectory, and other important documents that might be to your interest.
BIO
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I grew up in Santa Fe, New Mexico, where my love for hard work, discipline, and perseverance was shaped at an early age. Wrestling became a cornerstone of my life when I started at just 5 years old, and over the years, I traveled nationally to compete at the highest levels through high school and even one year at the collegiate level in Arizona. Wrestling taught me invaluable lessons in dedication, sacrifice, and resilience—principles that have stayed with me throughout my personal and professional journey.
Both of my parents were business owners who exemplified the power of persistence. Watching them build their businesses from the ground up without handouts was a formative experience. I saw firsthand what steady, focused effort could achieve as I grew up witnessing their late nights and unwavering determination.
As I near the end of my undergraduate studies, I feel deeply grateful for the opportunities I’ve had and the lessons I continue to learn along the way. My passion for the outdoors, especially hunting and fishing with my family in the Rocky Mountains, is a reflection of my love for adventure and nature. I’ve spent countless hours exploring the mountains, finding peace in the solitude and beauty they offer.
Music is another one of my great loves—specifically underground 2000s hip hop and alternative rock. It’s a way for me to connect with memories, emotions, and my roots. And when the weekend rolls around, you’ll likely find me watching football on Sundays, grilling up a BBQ, and enjoying the company of family and friends, all while cheering for my Las Vegas Raiders.
Work has always been an important part of my life. I started in the restaurant industry at 15, learning the value of communication and teamwork. Over the years, I worked my way up from busser to dishwasher to food runner and eventually server. Each position taught me something different about working with people and the importance of adaptability. Currently, I am interning at a law firm specializing in school law, where I’m learning the ins and outs of legal practice and honing my skills for the future.
I look forward to what lies ahead as I continue to build on the foundation of hard work, dedication, and passion that has always been a part of who I am.
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Career Trajectory
As I look ahead, my career trajectory feels like a carefully planned journey that’s gradually coming together. I’m set to graduate in spring 2025 with a BA in Organizational Communications and a minor in Political Science, which I know will serve as a solid foundation for my legal career. The skills I've learned in communication, critical thinking, and public policy have already shaped the way I approach problem-solving, and I’m excited to apply them in the legal world. Right now, I’m focused on studying for the LSAT, which I plan to take in February 2025. In the meantime, I’m interning at a law firm, and it’s been an invaluable experience. The hands-on work has given me insight into the legal field, and I’m learning so much about what it’s really like to be a part of the legal profession. I’m hoping that by the time I take the LSAT, I’ll have the opportunity to step into a law clerk position—a promotion that would give me even more exposure to legal work before I officially begin law school. I’m excited to hopefully start law school at UNM in the fall of 2025, knowing that it will push me to grow both academically and professionally. My long-term goal is to pass the Bar exam and become a licensed attorney in New Mexico. I see law as an opportunity to advocate for others, and I’ve always been drawn to School Law and Entertainment Law. I’m not sure which direction I’ll take yet, but both fields have always sparked my interest, and I’m eager to explore them further throughout my studies. Looking ahead, I’m determined to build a career that allows me to make a positive impact—whether it's helping students and educators navigate the complexities of school law or advising clients in the entertainment industry. It’s a long road, but I’m committed to putting in the work to reach my goals and become a trusted, skilled attorney here in New Mexico.
My Why?
What has inspired me go this route?
When I first went into college I had no idea what I really wanted to do. It wasn't until my sophomore year where I entered into an American Government class where I started to learn about policy, the history of our Country, and prepare for debates I would later join. I realized that some people get drawn to a profession because of a salary, societal acceptance, or other outside environments. My father always told me if it doesn't feel like a chore when you are working, then you are doing something you love. It all made sense when I joined my first debate. The preparation was something that excited me. I drew comparisons from my wrestling career and how I would prepare, practice, then perform. It was almost the same process that I fell in love with as a child. I realized that there were what seemed like so many never ending routes you could go with policy, and if I could make a positive impact in someones life by learning it, then it's a plus.
My Portfolio
Welcome to my portfolio! Here you will find some of my work I have done in preparation to politics and law. Some of the assignments were hypotheticals that I had to play a role for when it came to policy. Some were a in depth essay study of scholarly articles. I plan to upload more as my journey continues!