In 2016, Allison L. Cartwright began working as a senior account executive at New Horizons Computer Learning Center in Atlanta after a notable career in banking, mortgages, and financial planning. At New Horizons, Cartwright served as a mentor, encouraging others to achieve their goals.
The COVID-19 pandemic prompted Cartwright to reflect on her life and career. Although she enjoyed her role at New Horizons, she realized her work felt more like a task to complete rather than a goal to achieve. She recalled her interest in the legal profession, sparked during an undergraduate course in tort law at Georgia College & State University, where she graduated with honors.
“Being an attorney is often about giving a voice to the silenced and strength to the weary,” Cartwright said. “That is something of which I want to be a part. That is why I want to be a lawyer.”
Initially apprehensive about returning to academia after two decades in the workforce, Cartwright overcame her concerns by preparing for the LSAT and taking an online law class. On August 9, 2022, at age 42, she enrolled at Mercer University School of Law, taking the first step toward her dream.
“It was a perfect time in my life to pursue a career as a lawyer because through my previous experiences I had honed the dedication and mental fortitude that is required to dive fully into the world of law,” she said.
Since May 2023, Cartwright has worked as a student law clerk to Sam Hart Jr. at Dozier Law Firm in Macon. She plans to become a trial attorney and will join Dozier as an associate attorney after graduating.
Throughout her law school career, Cartwright received numerous accolades, including the Best Oralist Award at the Georgia State Bar Intrastate Moot Court Competition in 2024 and induction into the Phi Delta Phi Law Honor Society in 2023. She has served as the chief justice of the Honor Court, among other roles.
Cartwright also shares her experiences in moot court, which she considers her favorite involvement at Mercer Law. “Being chosen for such an elite team is inspiring and has helped sharpen my speaking and writing skills,” she said.
With advice to others considering a career change, Cartwright encourages them to “just do it!” She emphasizes the importance of a support system and is grateful for the support she has received.
Cartwright will be the second lawyer in her family, following her cousin Joel Graham, who graduated from Mercer Law in 2014. As she prepares to graduate, Cartwright reflects on her journey and aspirations. “I know I have what it takes to become an exceptional lawyer and, hopefully, an inspiration to others,” she said.