Stella Smith

Hi, I’m Stella Smith, a senior at Lake Forest High School with a clear interest in pre-law, specifically intellectual property and entertainment law. I’m passionate about helping creatives protect what they build and understanding how law shapes culture, media and storytelling. This past summer, I worked one-on-one with music and IP attorney Gary Pierson to create Gen Z’s Music Industry FAQ, a guide that helps young artists better understand copyright, streaming and the business side of the industry. We published the project in August 2025. I also earned college credit through Northwestern University’s Law & Society program, where I explored how legal systems influence society, power and creative expression. Last fall, I made the decision to step away from multiple Division 1 field hockey offers to fully focus on my academic path and long-term goal of attending law school. Outside the classroom, I’m a photographer, playlist curator and someone who believes deeply in second chances. Joining the badminton team gave me the opportunity to start fresh, rebuild confidence and rediscover joy in trying something new. I’ve earned high honors every semester, was inducted into the National Honor Society and named to the IHSFHA All-Academic Team. With my college applications now submitted, I’m excited and a little nervous to see where this pre-law journey takes me next, ideally in an environment that blends rigorous academics with proximity to the creative and entertainment worlds. Let’s connect. I’m just getting started.