Written by: Blake Etringer
3L Alan Julien’s path to Iowa Law is defined by determination, growth, and a commitment to making a meaningful impact. As the oldest of nine children born to Haitian immigrant parents in South Florida, Julien has long understood the value of hard work and perseverance—qualities that have shaped his journey and fueled his success at the University of Iowa College of Law.
“My parents worked very hard to put me and my siblings in a better position,” Julien shared. “As the first to go to college and now the first to go to law school, I’ve always tried to set the example.”
After leaving Florida for the first time to attend Iowa Law, he embraced both the challenges and opportunities of a new environment. Over the past three years, he has built not only a strong academic foundation, but also an impressive record of achievement that reflects his dedication to both his field and his community.
Finding purpose through bankruptcy law
Julien’s interest in the legal field began with a desire to create social change, but it was his exposure to bankruptcy law that gave his ambitions a clear direction. During a federal court hearing in Cedar Rapids involving the bankruptcy of Mercy Hospital, Julien witnessed firsthand the impact of financial restructuring on an entire community.
“What stood out to me was that bankruptcy isn’t about one side winning and the other losing,” he said. “It’s about coming together to find a solution for the future.”
That forward-looking approach resonated deeply. Julien became particularly interested in how bankruptcy law can provide individuals and communities with a “fresh start,” especially those burdened by long-term financial challenges such as medical or student loan debt. His passion for the field has since translated into both academic and professional success.
A series of standout accomplishments
Julien has garnered an impressive list of achievements during his time at Iowa Law. He currently serves as president of the Black Law Students Association (BLSA), where he has focused on mentoring and supporting fellow students navigating law school and the legal profession. He has also served as a mentor for the Business Corporate Law Society, and recently published an article on bankruptcy in the Journal of Gender, Race, and Justice.
Julien’s dedication has also been recognized at the national level. He was selected as a recipient of the Distinguished Bankruptcy Law Student Award by the American College of Bankruptcy, an honor awarded to just 12 students across the country each year. The recognition provided him with the opportunity to connect with leading judges, attorneys, and scholars in the field.
“I’ll always look at that as one of my biggest achievements,” Julien said. “It’s an opportunity to learn from people who are shaping the future of bankruptcy law.”
After graduation, Julien will spend the first part of the summer interning with the Honorable Erik P. Kimball in West Palm Beach, Florida, where he will gain exposure to international bankruptcy cases. During the second half of the summer, Julien will intern for Chief Bankruptcy Judge Eduardo V. Rodriguez, focusing on small business bankruptcy cases. Both experiences will broaden his understanding of how financial restructuring occurs at various levels, adding another dimension to his already impressive skillset.
Beginning in the fall, Julien will work a federal judicial clerkship in Cedar Rapids with the Honorable Chief Bankruptcy Judge Thad J. Collins, allowing him to continue developing his expertise in bankruptcy while working closely within the federal court system. Julien has externed for Judge Collins throughout this semester, wherein he has conducted research on complex bankruptcy issues and observed proceedings that have reinforced his interest in the field.
Julien has also been admitted to the highly selective bankruptcy L.L.M. program at St. John’s University, one of the only specialized programs of its kind in the country. He plans to pursue the degree concurrently with his clerkship in the fall, continuing to build his expertise through advanced coursework, research, and writing.
Growth through mentorship and perseverance
Despite his many accomplishments, Julien is candid about the challenges he faced early in law school. After a difficult first year, he credits mentorship—particularly through BLSA—with helping him turn things around.
“I didn’t understand what it meant to be a professional at first,” he said. “But I had mentors who guided me, showed me how to improve, and helped me see what was possible.”
That turning point became the foundation for his success. Today, Julien pays that support forward by mentoring other students and encouraging them to stay resilient in the face of setbacks.
As he prepares to begin his clerkship and continue his legal education, Julien remains focused on using bankruptcy law as a tool for meaningful change. His advice to incoming law students reflects the mindset that has guided his own journey:
“What matters is not how you start, but how you finish,” he said. “You’re going to face challenges, especially in your first year. But it’s never too late to improve, to grow, and to put yourself in a better position.”
For Julien, that philosophy has proven true—and his record of success at Iowa Law is a testament to what persistence, mentorship, and purpose can achieve.