EXECUTIVE BOARD 2025-2026
PRESIDENT: Will Barrett
Will Barrett (he/him) is a junior from Tucson studying Political Science and Economics, as well as Military Leadership. Outside of SDMT, he’s a cadet in the Sun Devil Battalion, training as part of Army ROTC. He also plays intramural pickleball, climbs, and beats his friends in Magic the Gathering. Will is working toward becoming a JAG lawyer in the United States Army. This semester, he’s excited to meet new members, help them grow, and win lots of tournaments. His favorite SDMT memory is winning an all-national attorney award and getting two bids to the national championship, all in a 20 minute window. He says that “it was a surreal feeling”. His favorite movie is Good Will Hunting, book is The Fellowship of the Ring, and the show is Mashle. Will’s favorite food is sushi (and shark he tried in Morocco) and says his Myers-Briggs type is simply “cool dude.” He’ll argue Steph Curry is only the 168th best basketball player of all time. Something surprising? He has his fair share of theatre experience, directing 2 full length productions. His go-to caffeine fix is what he calls a “brain destroyer” from QuikTrip (part Rooster Booster, part Mountain Dew Red). His guilty pleasure is League of Legends, and his dream superpower is flight.
Quote: “I don’t know how I’ll feel when I’m dead, but I don’t want to regret the way I lived.” — Yuji Itadori
Anthem: Tokyo Love Hotel – Rina Sawayama
Year in SDMT: 3rd
VICE PRESIDENT: Hazel Cates
Hazel Cates (she/her) is a senior from Ahwatukee majoring in Business Law and pursuing certificates in International Business, Leadership in Business, and Ethics. She works at a rock climbing gym, climbs in her free time, and dreams of one day opening her own criminal defense firm—but she’s keeping an open mind as she explores different areas of law. This semester, Hazel is pumped to travel with her team to Texas, compete with some of her best friends, and help new members feel supported and confident. Her favorite mock trial memory is everyone scrambling for cell service to call their parents after SDMT earned two bids to nationals—and celebrating that high all night long. A Leo who loves The Shawshank Redemption and The Creative Act by Rick Rubin, Hazel swears by a hazelnut latte with almond milk and admits her guilty pleasure is Taco Bell. Something you might not guess? She can do a pull-up with two fingers. Her unpopular opinion: Thin Mints are overrated. If she could have a superpower, it would be simple—being lucky.
Quote: “The harder I work, the more luck I seem to have.” — Thomas Jefferson
Anthem: Maneater – Nelly Furtado
Year in SDMT: 3rd
Treasurer: Iris Lai
Iris Lai (she/her) is a junior from Chandler, Arizona, majoring in Computer Science with a minor in Biology. She works at an orthopedic clinic, loves painting and thrifting, and is a trained animal handler for dogs, cats, birds, snakes, hedgehogs, tortoises, ferrets, and more. Iris plans to go to medical school and hopes to specialize in cardiology or dermatology. This semester, she’s excited to meet everyone and kick off the new year with SDMT. A Taurus and ENFJ, she swears drinks without ice are superior. She’s all about noodle dishes, The Good Place, and peach lemonade or strawberry matcha for a caffeine boost. Her guilty pleasure is watching reality TV, and if she could pick a superpower, it would be controlling time.
Quote: “If you only have one smile in you, give it to the people you love.” — Maya Angelou
Anthem:Think Later – Tate McRae
Year in SDMT: 3rd
SECRETARY: Aanya Jain
Aanya Jain (she/her) is a sophomore from Peoria, AZ studying biological sciences. When she’s not in class, Aanya is a member of a competitive dance team! Her interests for her career lie in medicinal law, but she wants to further research the legal field to find a specialty that fits her interests. This semester, Aanya cannot wait to meet everyone on the team and compete. Her favorite show is “Gossip Girl,” which she says is the perfect show to binge watch. As a Gemini and a Slytherin, Aanya loves to get the most out of her day, which is why she argues that early mornings are the best time of day. Her favorite food is frozen yogurt. Aanya is motivated by a fear of failure and fueled by pumpkin spiced chai lattes. Something you wouldn’t guess about Aanya is that she loves to horseback ride and has paraglided in three different countries.
Quote: “Carpe diem. Seize the day. Make your lives extraordinary!”
Anthem: “Anything can happen” – Ellie Goulding
Year in SDMT: 2nd
TOURNAMENT DIRECTOR: Sam Luba
Sam Luba (he/him) is a sophomore from Phoenix majoring in Political Science and Justice Studies with a certificate in Political History and Leadership. Outside of SDMT, Sam is a senior reporter for The State Press, covering politics, community, and breaking news, and he works seasonally at Cactus Sports. He hopes to attend law school on the East Coast and become a civil rights/liberties attorney. He’s excited to welcome new members and, as Tournament Director, to host Sundown Showdown VII. His favorite mock trial memory is his team winning a bid to Nationals at L.A. ORCS—the second SDMT bid that day. He’ll argue that cold pizza is horrible, he’s a demon at pickleball, and his go-to is an iced dirty chai. If he had a superpower, it’d be teleportation.
Quote: “I’m a greater believer in luck, and I find the harder I work, the more I have of it.” — Thomas Jefferson
Anthem: Non-Stop – Hamilton
Year in SDMT: 2nd
GENERAL MEMBERS
Zahra Alam
Zahra Alam (she/her) is a junior from Scottsdale double-majoring in Business Law and Global Politics. Outside of SDMT, she babysits, bakes, and loves to travel. Zahra hopes to become an international lawyer and eventually work at the International Court of Justice. She’s excited this semester to compete, travel, and keep learning from her teammates. An Aquarius and ENTP “debater,” her favorite mock trial memory is she was at the airport with aanya and found out that her team got a bid to ORCS. Zahra will always say yes to edamame dumplings and her favorite movies include 30 Rock and The Grand Budapest Hotel. Something you wouldn’t guess? She collects long socks. Zahra usually orders hot green tea with honey and lemon, admits her guilty pleasure is dark chocolate (80–100% cacao only), and her unpopular opinion is that crunchy peanut butter is better than creamy. If she could have a superpower, it would be teleportation!
Quote: “There are no missed opportunities, everything you missed was not yours.”
Anthem: Throw It In – Lil Wayne
Year in SDMT: 2nd
Sierra Anglen
Sierra Anglen (she/her) is a senior from San Tan Valley majoring in Biological Sciences and Global health with an emphasis in Conservation Biology & Ecology. She balances school with work at the Arizona House of Representatives and hopes to explore how law and science intersect in her career. Sierra is excited to welcome new members and share what she’s learned from her time in SDMT. Her favorite SDMT memory is going to the beach in Santa Barbara with team Pink Panthers in her sophomore year. She loves The Lego Batman Movie, Flowers for Algernon, and never says no to chips and salsa. A Taurus and INTJ, she proudly calls herself a Pokemon Go enthusiast . Fun fact? She’s a triplet! Her guilty pleasure is playing Pokemon Go, her go-to drink is a Dr Pepper, and if she had a superpower, it would be the ability to always find a parking spot.
Quote: “Everything works out in the end; if it hasn’t worked out, it’s not the end.”
Anthem: Once in a Lifetime – Talking Heads
Year in SDMT: 4th
Abigail Axelson
Abigail Axelson (she/her) is a senior from Surprise studying Business Law. She works as both a respite care provider and a server at Mirabella! Abigail dreams of becoming an attorney and this semester she’s most excited about competing and spending time with her friends. Her favorite mock trial memory is when her P-Bench all scored 15 ranks! A fan of Legally Blonde, Project Hail Mary, and The Pitt, she also swears by pho as her favorite meal. As an Aquarius, Abigail brings unique perspectives like arguing that gluten-free pasta is better than regular. Something surprising about her? She watches a movie every day. She runs on iced coffee with vanilla and half-and-half, and her guilty pleasure is reality TV. If she had a superpower, she’d choose the ability to speak every language.
Quote: “What, like it’s hard?”
Anthem:Modern Girl – Bleachers
Year in SDMT: 3rd
Avangeline Bailey
Avangeline Bailey (she/her) is a freshman from Phoenix (Arcadia) studying Business Law. She’s a McCord Scholar and member of ΦΑΔ (Phi Alpha Delta) Pre-Law, and she’s here for the friends, the reps, and the thrill of trial. Bailey plans to pursue a career in law while keeping an open mind about which area to specialize in. Movie night? The Perks of Being a Wallflower. Book? Walden. TV? Supernatural. She will happily defend tapioca pudding as an elite dessert and insists ASU overalls are, frankly, chopped. A Sagittarius and ENTP (Enneagram 8), she can chat in niche languages like ASL, Ancient Greek, and Latin. Her go-to drink is AJ’s iced tea; her guilty pleasure is Taylor Swift; and her dream superpower is breathing underwater.
Quote: “To define is to limit.” — Oscar Wilde
Anthem: Stubborn Love – The Lumineers
Year in SDMT: 1st
Sophia baniameri
Sophia Baniameri (she/her) is a sophomore from Chandler majoring in Finance and Business Law. She balances school with tennis, workouts, concerts, and spontaneous plans with friends. Sophia is aiming for law school and a career as an attorney, and she’s excited to compete at tournaments this semester. She’s into The Shawshank Redemption, cottage cheese, and Drake’s Trophies. She’ll admit she doesn’t like boba (a hot take), and her guilty pleasure is watching “terrible” movies. Her usual coffee order is a cold brew with oat milk and sugar-free vanilla, and if she could pick a superpower, it would be time travel.
Quote: “You have to be able to accept failure to get better.” — LeBron James
Anthem: Trophies – Drake
Year in SDMT: 2nd
Nufo Barocio
Nufo Barocio (he/him) is a junior from Gilbert, Arizona, double majoring in Political Science and Justice Studies. Outside of SDMT, he’s active in the Hispanic Student Business Association and the Hispanic Legal Student Association, where he’s currently running for a board position. Nufo is also a licensed realtor for the state of Arizona and a part-time DJ, often spinning house music at parties and making new friends in the process. He hopes to become an attorney and one day start his own law firm dedicated to empowering the Hispanic community. This semester, he’s excited to keep growing as a competitor, strengthen his speaking skills, and build lifelong friendships on the team. A lifelong fan of horror movies, Nufo insists that Victorious isn’t as great as people say, and he loves a good seafood boil. Fueled by plain black coffee and guilty pleasures of brain-rot TV, Nufo is a proud Leo who adds bold energy to the team. If he could choose a superpower, it would be telekinesis.
Quote: “You’ll never believe what just happened to me.”
Anthem:Just Dance – Lady Gaga
Year in SDMT: 1st
Dominic Barr
Dominic Barr (he/him) is a freshman from Las Vegas, Nevada, studying Political Science. He spends his free time acting, writing short films, listening to music, and collecting classic vinyl records from his favorite artists. Dominic hopes to become a business attorney and eventually branch out into lawmaking and public policy. This semester, he’s excited to dive into his first year with SDMT, meet new people who share his passion for law, and sharpen his competitive skills. He’s a Sagittarius and an ENTP who firmly believes waffles are superior to pancakes. His favorites include sushi, Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, Animal Farm, and How I Met Your Mother. His go-to drink is an Arnold Palmer, and his guilty pleasure is binge-watching ’80s movies. If he could have any superpower, he’d pick super speed.
Quote: “Love heals all wounds and not just time alone.”
Anthem:Upside Down – Jack Johnson
Year in SDMT: 1st
joe beining
Joe Beining (he/him) is a senior from Menomonee Falls, WI studying political science and psychology. Outside of SDMT, Joe finds joy watching reels on Instagram and arguing against LetterBoxd users. When he’s not online, Joe is busy preparing for the future; Joe’s aspirations for his career lie in going to law school and studying international law! His favorite mock trial memory is watching the Bellagio fountain after the Rebel Trojan invitational, and he is excited to improve competitive skills this semester! If Joe had to choose a favorite show to watch, he’d say “I Think You Should Leave” is the best. As an Aries and an INFP, Joe will never relinquish his want to have fun, and it is this want that motivates him as a competitor. His favorite food is an Oregano’s pizza cookie with a nice glass of water. Joe’s guilty pleasure is buying books that he will most likely not end up reading. A hidden talent of Joe’s is his ability to beat competitive Smash Bros players.
Quote: “Not everyone who works hard is rewarded. But! All those who succeed have worked hard!”
Anthem: “Back On 74” – Jungle
Year in SDMT: 4th
Jaidan bhakta
Jaidan Bhakta (he/him) is a senior from Chandler, Arizona, double majoring in Data Science and Political Science. When he’s not in class, he’s usually playing piano, reading, volunteering, or coaching high school We the People teams. Jaidan plans to practice law, focusing on intellectual property or appellate advocacy, and hopes to become a law professor later in his career. This semester, he’s excited to meet the new members and win—or place highly—at tournaments. His favorite mock trial memory is going head-to-head with Josiah Jones at ORCS. A “Diplomat” personality type, Jaidan loves Thai food (especially panang curry) and insists coffee is overrated—lemonade all the way. He’s been playing piano since he was four, loves rewatching Disney movies for the nostalgia, and would choose flight as his superpower.
Quote: “Until the day when God shall deign to reveal the future to man, all human wisdom is summed up in these two words—Wait and Hope.” — Alexandre Dumas
Anthem:Arabesque No. 1 – Debussy
Year in SDMT: 4th
Radha BHASKARWAR
Radha Bhaskarwar (she/her) is a sophomore from Peoria double-majoring in Political Science and Data Science. She spends her free time at the gym, playing sports, or enjoying a good rom-com. Radha is working toward law school and is excited this semester to travel and compete with friends. A fan of tiramisu and How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days, she insists pineapple on pizza is superior. Something you wouldn’t guess? She’s an adrenaline junkie. She loves a matcha with lavender cold foam and admits her guilty pleasure is marathoning rom-coms. If she had a superpower, it would be mind reading.
Quote: “On October 3rd, he asked me what day it was. It’s October 3rd.” — Mean Girls
Anthem: Pretty Little Things – Jorja Smith
Year in SDMT: 2nd
Nishka Bhoite
Nishka Bhoite (she/her) is a freshman from Chandler studying Political Science. She plans to join the South Asian Society and RISE and is still exploring which area of law she wants to pursue. This semester, Nishka is excited to meet new people, scrimmage, and learn this year’s case. She loves sushi and Sinners, and she identifies as an INTJ who believes pineapple definitely belongs on pizza. Something surprising? She used to work as a Starbucks barista. These days her go-to order is an iced white mocha with vanilla sweet cream cold foam and extra caramel drizzle. Her guilty pleasure is watching ASMR to fall asleep, and if she could have a superpower, it would be mind reading.
Quote: “Happiness can be found even in the darkest of times, if one only remembers to turn on the light.” — Albus Dumbledore
Anthem: Try Everything – Shakira (as Gazelle)
Year in SDMT: 1st
Vivan Boetger
Vivian Boetger (she/her) is a sophomore from Scottsdale studying Law and Human Behavior. She’s involved in the Criminal Justice Advocates and spends her free time playing basketball—she’s played competitively for years. Vivian hopes to pursue a career as a defense lawyer and is excited to meet all the new members this semester. Her favorites include BLTs from Chiba Hut, Now You See Me, and Grey’s Anatomy. She’s an ENTJ-T who proudly says if you’re aware of your child’s disability before birth, you should choose not to have them. She usually drinks chai tea, admits her guilty pleasure is watching ice-eating ASMR, and says people might not guess she played five years of competitive basketball. Her theme song would be Blame It by Jamie Foxx & T-Pain, and if she could have a superpower, it would be mind reading.
Quote: “Be the change you want to see in the world.” — Mahatma Gandhi
Anthem: Blame It – Jamie Foxx & T-Pain
Year in SDMT: 2nd
Thomasina Brown
Thomasina Brown (she/her) is a sophomore from Nixa, Missouri, double-majoring in Philosophy and Political Science with a certificate in Justice Studies. She’s on the e-board for both PPGen and Qmunity at ASU. Thomasina hopes to practice law but hasn’t decided what kind yet. This semester, she’s looking forward to meeting new members and growing closer to her team. She loves Palatschinke (a Central European crepe), The Perks of Being a Wallflower, and is an INFJ-T. She hates the smell of new cars but loves her dirty chai. Something surprising? She was her high school’s bowling team captain. Her guilty pleasure is falling asleep to Friends every night, and her dream superpower would be the ability to speak every language.
Quote: “I had a painting teacher once tell me that the truth is the truth, even if no one believes it, and a lie is a lie, even if everyone believes it.”
Anthem: You’re Gonna Go Far – Noah Kahan
Year in SDMT: 2nd
Peter Cipra
Peter Cipra (he/him) is a freshman from Scottsdale majoring in Business (Law). Outside of SDMT, he plays rugby, lifts weights, and works part-time at Wieneke Law Group. Peter hopes to practice transactional law, preferably on the East Coast in New York or Boston. This semester, he’s excited to connect with teammates and get comfortable with the mock trial process. A French speaker and ESTJ, he loves sushi, Good Will Hunting, The Iliad, and Better Call Saul. His unpopular opinion? Persistently rainy or cloudy weather beats persistently sunny. Once a big high school band kid, he now fuels up with black coffee (two sugars) and a seasonal haul from Trader Joe’s. If he could have a superpower, it would be teleportation.
Quote: “That’s my dream; that’s my nightmare. Crawling, slithering, along the edge of a straight razor… and surviving.” — Colonel Kurtz, Apocalypse Now
Anthem: Upside Down – Jack Johnson
Year in SDMT: 1st
Matt Crothers
Matt Crothers (he/him) is a senior from Prescott, Arizona, majoring in Chemical Engineering with a minor in Chemistry. He’s spent over a year interning at Doran Justice and hopes to find a career that balances his science background with law. This semester, he’s excited to get back to competing and start the journey to D.C. His favorite mock trial memory is playing football on the beach after making it to nationals. Matt loves Revenge of the Sith, barbecue from his Traeger, and reality-TV nights on the couch. He jokes he can cook minute rice in 58 seconds—usually after a Peach Red Bull—and his unpopular opinion is that Cava just isn’t good. If he had a superpower, it would be teleportation.
Quote: “A D-Lineman gets one sack a game… he’ll be a top five pick. You give up one sack a game, you’re gonna work at Amazon. Nothing wrong with that, but whenever we’re here, that’s what we’re striving for.” — Will Campbell
Anthem: Headshots (4r da locals) – Isaiah Rashad
Year in SDMT: 4th
Elle downey
Elle Downey (she/her) is a junior from Mesa, Arizona, majoring in Economics. She loves going to the beach, paddle boarding, reading, and keeping up her streak as an undefeated ping pong player. Elle isn’t sure yet where her career path will take her, but she knows she wants to do something she’s passionate about—something that helps people. This semester, she’s excited to meet all the new members joining SDMT and to watch everyone grow throughout the year. Her favorite mock trial memory is finding out that the team didn’t just get one, but two bids to nationals—for the first time in over a decade. A Pisces who swears by pasta in all its forms, Elle also loves Game of Thrones and The Kite Runner. Her guilty pleasure is reality TV, her go-to coffee order is a dirty chai, and her unpopular opinion is that Adam Conover is the worst celebrity to follow. If she could have any superpower, it would be time travel.
Quote: “The move that you’re most scared to make is the one that will change everything.”
Anthem:Rhiannon – Fleetwood Mac
Year in SDMT: 3rd
Diana espinoza
Diana Espinoza (she/her) is a senior from Phoenix majoring in Public Service & Public Policy and Justice Studies. When she isn’t in class, she’s usually drawing, playing D&D, or working on art commissions. Diana hopes to practice medical malpractice litigation after law school and is thrilled to see every SDMT team push for bids this season. Her favorite mock trial memory is watching her team lock in during tournaments—despite the pressure and stress, everyone knew how important it was and gave their all. She’s a Capricorn who loves Sonoran hot dogs, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, and the comfort of The Princess Bride (a guilty pleasure she can’t resist). She drinks Malaysian white coffee with boba, hates giant parking lots and golf courses (“do you know how much housing we could put there?”), and can show off a surprising range of accents if you ask. If she could have any superpower, she’d choose time control.
Quote: “The biggest disease today is the feeling of being unwanted. People need to be loved; without love, people die.” — Princess Diana
Anthem:The Suburbs – Arcade Fire
Year in SDMT: 3rd
Sydney ferguson
Sydney Ferguson (she/they) is a sophomore from Las Vegas, Nevada, majoring in Communication. They love journaling, meditating, and unwinding with music. Sydney is still figuring out exactly where their career will take them but is excited to be part of SDMT’s close-knit community this semester. A Capricorn and INFJ-T, they love Chinese barbecue pork buns, Everything Everywhere All at Once, and Doctor Who. Their unpopular opinion? Tap water is perfectly fine to drink. Something surprising? They’re a really good whistler and even played saxophone in middle school. They don’t drink coffee often but never turn down an iced matcha latte. Sydney’s guilty pleasure is Panic! at the Disco’s early albums, and if they could have a superpower, it would be the ability to stop time.
Quote: “Be yourself; everyone else is already taken.” — Oscar Wilde
Anthem: Let It Be – The Beatles
Year in SDMT: 1st
Amy fleming
Amy Fleming (she/her) is a freshman from Scottsdale, Arizona, majoring in Forensic Psychology. She hopes to one day pursue a career in law, though she’s still figuring out the exact path. Outside of class, Amy loves crocheting and making gifts for her friends. She’s thrilled to be meeting so many new people this semester. Amy loves pasta, is a big fan of K-dramas when she’s in the mood, and she practiced Taekwondo for nine years!! Her coffee order usually leans toward matcha, and her guilty pleasure is binge-watching Dance Moms. Amy insists bag charms are worth buying in every style. If she had a superpower, it would be super speed.
Quote: “It’s not the years in your life that count, it’s the life in your years.” – Abraham Lincoln
Anthem:Sweet Escape – Gwen Stefani
Year in SDMT: 1st
Reid Foster
Reid Foster (he/him) is a junior from Tucson, Arizona, studying Chemical Engineering and Economics. Outside of class, he plays video games and lifts weights. Reid hopes to become an attorney, either in civil litigation or patents, and he’s excited to travel and compete with the best teams in the country this year. His favorite mock trial memory is getting a nats bid last season. A Scorpio who swears Patrick Mahomes isn’t a top-5 all-time QB, he loves tacos, Good Will Hunting, Norwegian Wood, and Game of Thrones. Something surprising? He can eat incredibly hot wings. He takes his coffee dark, hot, and black, admits his guilty pleasure is Dave Blunts, and would choose teleportation as his superpower.
Quote: “I’m at your house like, ‘why you got your couch on my Chucks…’” — Earl Sweatshirt
Anthem: Margiela Split Toes – Westside Gunn
Year in SDMT: 3rd
Luke Fries
Luke Fries (he/him) is a senior from San Diego double majoring in Electrical Engineering and Economics. When he’s not studying, Luke is on the ice playing hockey, running (17:17 5K!), or reading. He plans to work in engineering before heading to law school and hopes to combine both careers long-term. This semester, he’s giving it “one last good year” with SDMT before heading back to San Diego. Luke’s favorites include popcorn, Rush Hour, The Very Hungry Caterpillar, and Andor. A Pisces and ENFP, he’ll admit his guilty pleasure is listening to the K-pop Demon Hunters soundtrack. Something surprising? He used to sing in choir. His go-to is a Coca-Cola, and his dream superpower would be flying.
Quote: “What the bones!” — Joe Beining
Anthem: Float On – Modest Mouse
Year in SDMT: 4th
Atharva Goel
Atharva Goel (he/him) is a sophomore from Phoenix, Arizona, double majoring in Computer Science and Business. When he’s not coding, Atharva works at Honeywell, plays guitar, and spends time with his family. He hopes to become a software engineer and is most excited this semester to compete with his friends and take SDMT to nationals again. His favorite mock trial memory is the ORCS closing ceremonies. Atharva loves paneer in any form, jams out to Bruno Mars when he needs a pick-me-up, and firmly believes boba is seriously overrated. Something you might not know about him: he plays both the saxophone and guitar. His guilty pleasure is food in all forms—chips, ice cream, cake, you name it. He’d pick time control as his superpower, Dr. Strange–style.
Quote: “Make your life one worth telling stories about.”
Anthem:The Lazy Song – Bruno Mars
Year in SDMT: 2nd
Isheeta Gore
Isheeta Gore (she/her) is a sophomore from Phoenix studying Forensic Psychology with a minor in Chinese. Outside of class, she loves exploring coffee shops and hanging out with friends. Isheeta is working toward becoming a defense attorney for juveniles and is excited this semester to meet all the newbies and watch the team grow. A Leo and ESFJ, she swears by dumplings and chaat, and she’ll die on the hill that ketchup is overrated. Something you wouldn’t guess? She once appeared on national television on Wheel of Fortune. Her go-to coffee shop order is a Burnt Sugar Oat Latte, though she admits she tends to start creative projects without always finishing them. If she had a superpower, she’d pick pausing time and teleporting anywhere.
Quote: “You can either experience the pain of discipline or the pain of regret. The choice is yours.”
Anthem: Born to Be Alive – Bea and Her Business
Year in SDMT: 2nd
audrey haag
Audrey Haag (she/her) is a senior from Mesa, Arizona, double majoring in Business Law and Popular Music. Outside of mock trial, she keeps busy as VP of Communications for KAPI, a University Housing REC assistant, and a Princeton Review Campus Ambassador. Audrey hopes to become an entertainment lawyer in New York City and is determined to leave a lasting impact in her final year with SDMT. Her favorite mock trial memories include winning at Irvine with Team Bullet and making history as the first all-female F-Team to earn a bid to ORCS — a moment she’ll never forget. She loves ramen, Heartstopper, Gran Turismo, and The Perfect Marriage by Geneva Rose. A Leo sun, Sagittarius rising, and Capricorn moon, Audrey stands by her hot take that sushi isn’t that good. She’s written several songs (not released… yet), runs on iced blonde vanilla lattes, and would choose the superpower of mastering any task that comes her way.
Quote: “Sunsets are proof that endings can be beautiful too.”
Anthem:Greedy – Tate McRae
Year in SDMT: 3rd
Ethan hammons
Ethan Hammons (he/him) is a junior from Mesa, Arizona, majoring in Business Law. He balances school with a part-time job and loves tossing pizza dough—a skill he perfected during his time working at Venezia’s. Ethan hopes to one day serve the community he grew up in as a judge and maybe even run for state legislature. This semester, he’s excited to learn more about the mock trial process and make new friends along the way. He loves sushi, Stand By Me, and The Sopranos (though The Wire is a close second). His guilty pleasure is listening to Lady Gaga’s early hits on repeat, and his unpopular opinion is that pineapple absolutely belongs on pizza. He fuels up with Dutch Bros’ Shark Attack Rebels and dreams of saving on gas by flying everywhere.
Quote: “Do not pray for easy lives, pray to be stronger men.”
Anthem:Flashing Lights – Kanye West
Year in SDMT: 1st
ariana hatefi
Ariana Hatefi (she/her) is a sophomore from Chandler, Arizona, majoring in Political Science. Ariana dreams of becoming either an immigration lawyer or a civil rights lawyer. She’s been playing piano for years, and it continues to be one of her favorite pastimes. This semester, she’s excited to meet new people, dive deeper into the trial process, and return to competing. Ariana is a big fan of Persian food (especially ghormeh sabzi) and loves rewatching her favorite movies and shows. She runs on iced French caramel lattes with extra espresso and admits to being an INFJ with a soft spot for photographic memory as a wished-for superpower. Team. Something you might not guess about Ariana: she has a scar from a second-degree oil burn after being inspired to make beignets.
Quote: “Just because my dreams are different than yours, doesn’t mean they’re unimportant.”
Anthem:Jackie and Wilson – Hozier
Year in SDMT: 1st
Juliana Hernandez-Betancur
Juliana Hernandez-Betancur (she/her) is a freshman from Gilbert, Arizona, double majoring in Political Science and Philosophy. She’s a pianist who performs regularly and participates in two dance clubs at ASU. Juliana hopes to work in government, potentially with the U.S. Department of State as an ambassador. This semester, she’s excited to meet her teammates and dive into mock trial. A Leo and ENTJ who’s fluent in Spanish, she loves La La Land and Tiramisu, both the dessert and the metaphorical vibe. She once won her school spelling bee and insists that Labubus shoes are the ugliest things in existence. Her go-to drink is a pumpkin cream cold brew, her guilty pleasure is—you guessed it—more tiramisu, and her dream power is conjuring any item she needs.
Quote: (She’s still deciding!)
Anthem: Talk – beabadoobee
Year in SDMT: 1st
Abbey Hicks
Abbey Hicks (she/her) is a sophomore from Scottsdale, Arizona studying Elementary Education. Outside of classes, Abbey works as a lifeguard and swim instructor. Her career goal is to become an elementary school teacher. This semester, she’s most excited about having fun with her friends and meeting new people. A fan of Criminal Minds, Pride and Prejudice, and The Life List, Abbey also swears by fried chicken as her favorite comfort food. With the bold claim that country music is the best type of music, she adds her own flair to team conversations. Her favorite mock memory is team gold’s powwow the Friday night before ORCs. Something surprising about Abbey is that she became a lifeguard only a year after learning how to swim. Powered by brown sugar oatmilk shaken espressos and a guilty pleasure of listening to the same song on repeat for days, Abbey is ready to jump into competitions this year. If she could have any superpower, it would be the ability to read minds.
Quote: “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”
Anthem: “Life Changes” – Thomas Rhett
Year in SDMT: 2nd
Kendall howard
Kendall Howard (she/her) is a junior from Winston-Salem, North Carolina, majoring in Criminology and Criminal Justice. New to Arizona, she’s using mock trial to meet people and learn more about the law. Kendall hopes to practice as a tax or contract lawyer and has a talent for jazz singing in her spare time. An Aries and INFJ, she lives by Theodore Roosevelt’s words: “Comparison is the thief of joy.” She loves X-Men: Days of Future Past, The Book Thief, and The Bear, and she’ll stand by her hot take that Taylor Swift isn’t the best vocalist out there. Kendall’s guilty pleasure is bingeing CW shows like The Flash and Arrow, and her go-to drink is a chai tea latte with almond milk. If she could have a superpower, she’d stop time itself.
Quote: “Comparison is the thief of joy.” — Theodore Roosevelt
Anthem: LOYALTY. – Kendrick Lamar ft. Rihanna
Year in SDMT: 1st
Cindy huang
Cindy Huang (she/her) is a freshman from Flagstaff studying Political Science with a minor in Chinese. Outside of class, you’ll find her in the pool with ASU’s Swim Club or at karaoke—she loves to sing and never misses a chance for a good session. Cindy is considering a future in law but is keeping her options open as she explores political research and international diplomacy. This semester, she’s excited to meet new people and experience her first season with SDMT. A fan of Marie Lu’s Legend, soup dumplings, and dark chocolate, Cindy also stands by her belief that Ivy Leagues are overrated. She runs on fun specialty lattes and would love the power of time travel if she could choose any superpower.
Quote: (She’s still deciding!)
Anthem:Long Live (Taylor’s Version) – Taylor Swift
Year in SDMT: 1st
Manasvi Jagtap
Manasvi Jagtap (she/her) is a junior from Chandler, AZ studying finance and business law. Outside of her role as a student in SDMT, she keeps busy working at a Tempe law firm and reading various Kafka stories. Manasvi’s goals for the future center around her goals to work as a lawyer and owning the eternally-classic Rolls Royce by 45. Her favorite mock trial memory were all the road trips with Andrew and Bella last year, and she cannot wait to make even more new friends this semester! Manasvi’s guilty pleasure is mac and cheese, which is also her favorite food — afterall, mac and cheese is perfect. When she needs a boost, she loves a chai latte with oat milk and brown sugar syrup. Manasvi’s unpopular opinion is that influencers deserve just as much leniency as everyone else.
Quote: “Do good, be good.”
Anthem: Anything Playboi Carti
Year in SDMT: 3rd
krithika janne
Krithika Janne (she/her) is a freshman from Mesa majoring in Business (Global Politics). She loves reading, painting, and watching Top Gear and Criminal Minds. Krithika hopes to attend law school and eventually work as an international lawyer or diplomat. This semester, she’s eager to make friends and compete at her first tournaments. A Gemini and INFP who speaks Telugu, she collects bells from her travels and loves lemon tiramisu. Her guilty pleasure is scrolling through one-star Goodreads reviews for entertainment, and she insists morning showers beat night ones. She runs on strawberry lemonade and dreams of teleportation as her superpower.
Quote: “Whatever you can do, or dream you can, begin it. Boldness has genius, power, and magic in it.” — Goethe
Anthem: Unwritten – Natasha Bedingfield
Year in SDMT: 1st
Jerome kau
Jerome Kau (he/him) is a sophomore from Queen Creek majoring in Business Law. Outside of SDMT, he enjoys thrifting, going to the gym, practicing karate, and outrigger paddling. Jerome hopes to become a corporate lawyer and is looking forward to traveling and competing with the team this semester. A fan of 2 Fast 2 Furious and Spam musubi, he’s motivated by proving people wrong when they underestimate him. He’ll die on the hill that Samsung is better than Apple and can literally break bricks with his hands. His guilty pleasure is eating an entire pizza while watching Danny Duncan videos. His go-to coffee order is a caramel frappuccino, and if he could have a superpower, he’d want to control probability itself.
Quote: “It doesn’t matter if you win by an inch or a mile, winning’s winning.” — The Fast and the Furious
Anthem: Hot Wings (I Wanna Party) – from Rio
Year in SDMT: 1st
Ben Kayne
Ben Kayne (he/him) is a freshman from Los Angeles majoring in Communications and Political Science. When he’s not writing, lifting, or reading, he’s watching sports—baseball, basketball, and football—and yes, he’s the friend who lives for NFL RedZone Sundays. Ben hopes to become a criminal defense attorney, specifically a public defender. This semester, he’s excited to sharpen his skills and deepen his understanding of law and trial work. He’s into hamburgers, The Greatest Showman, the Alex Cross series, and Suits or Brooklyn 99. He’ll die on the hill that sushi isn’t good and has already run three marathons. Apple juice is his “coffee” order, and if he could choose a superpower, he’d pick super speed.
Quote: “Do the right thing even if it is the hard thing.” — Bryan Stevenson
Anthem:Can’t Hold Us – Macklemore
Year in SDMT: 1st
Natasha kiriluck
Natasha Kiriluk (she/her) is a senior from Mesa triple-majoring in Political Science, History, and Economics. She works at the Center for Work and Democracy, interns at Doran Justice, plays in the Philharmonia, and founded a community service club called the Goldman Society. Natasha plans to go to law school and work in criminal or civil-rights law. She’s excited for her last fall semester with SDMT. Her favorite mock trial memory is both teams getting bids to nationals at ORCS last year. A Cancer and ENFP, she loves pierogis, Amadeus, and Pride and Prejudice. She’ll proudly argue that golf is stupid, and her guilty pleasure is binging Love Island. Something you might not guess? She’s a poker god. Natasha usually orders a caramel latte, and if she could have any superpower, it would be invisibility.
Quote: “It’s a terrible waste to be happy and not notice it.” — Kurt Vonnegut
Anthem: Alter Ego – Doechii
Year in SDMT: 4th
Danit Knishinsky
Danit Knishinsky (she/her) is a freshman from Scottsdale studying Business Law. She’s a lifelong figure skater—and yes, she can still pull off some of the hardest moves on the ice. Danit hopes to become a corporate or international lawyer and is excited this semester to watch trials and learn from the experienced members on the team. She’s a fan of Desperate Housewives, loves pasta, and always orders a caramel macchiato when it’s coffee time. Her unpopular opinion? She can’t stand pastries or breakfast foods. Her guilty pleasure is watching movies while doing homework, and something people might not guess about her is how serious her skating background is. If she could have a superpower, she’d pick mind reading.
Quote: “Living is like tearing through a museum. Not until later do you really start absorbing what you saw.” – Audrey Hepburn
Anthem:Best of Both Worlds – Hannah Montana
Year in SDMT: 1st
isabella krueger
Isabella “Bella” Krueger (she/her) is a junior from Ahwatukee majoring in Criminology and Criminal Justice with a minor in Homeland Security. When she’s not studying, she’s usually at work, reading, or working on her car. Bella hopes to work for the federal government in investigations or intelligence. This semester, she’s looking forward to improving her skills, meeting new members, and heading back to Nationals. An Aquarius and ENFP, she proudly admits she hates pickleball. Her favorites include Arrested Development, Django Unchained, and The Secret History by Donna Tartt. Something you wouldn’t guess? She used to be a competitive figure skater. Her go-to is an iced white mocha, her guilty pleasure is watching long YouTube video essays, and her dream superpower is mind reading.
Quote: “You must do the thing which you think you cannot do.” — Eleanor Roosevelt
Anthem:Parabola – TOOL
Year in SDMT: 3rd
Skylar Kulas
Skylar Kulas (she/her) is a sophomore from Chandler majoring in Philosophy (Politics, Morality & Law) with a minor in Civic and Economic Thought and Leadership. She works at a political organizing firm and plays in ASU’s concert band. Skylar plans on law school and a career in politics and is excited to get to know new members and grow her mock skills. Her favorite mock trial memory is winning a bid to ORCS last year with F-Team. A Sagittarius and INFP, she loves The Office, vegan food, and pasta. Her unpopular opinion? Dunkin’ coffee beats Starbucks. She’s secretly great at Pac-Man, orders an iced matcha latte, and would choose teleportation as her superpower.
Quote: “Progress over perfection.”
Anthem: august – Taylor Swift
Year in SDMT: 2nd
Mounika Mandhari
Mounika Mandhari (she/her) is a sophomore from Peoria majoring in Data Science. When she’s not in class, you’ll catch her watching reality TV, trying to cook, or sneaking in an extra nap. Mounika hopes to pursue a career in law—she’s loving litigation but is also curious about IP or data-privacy work. This semester, she’s excited to compete (and not be a freshman). Her favorite mock trial memories are overnight stays after tournament weekends and hitting the beach on the way back from California tourneys. A fan of Sherlock and Asian food—especially sushi and ramen—she admits she hates no-show socks with a passion. Something surprising? She’s really good at catching flies with her hands. Fueled by matcha lattes with brown sugar, her guilty pleasure is scrolling TikTok. If she could pick a superpower, it would be to stay awake on command.
Quote: “A page, turning, is a wing lifted with no twin, and therefore no flight. And yet we are moved.” — Ocean Vuong
Anthem: Girl, so Confusing – Charli XCX
Year in SDMT: 2nd
Naomi Martin
Naomi Martin (she/her) is a freshman from Tucson studying Business Law. She’s also a member of Women in Business, attends church, and loves to write. Naomi hopes to become a mediator representing companies in negotiation deals or during legal trouble, though she’s also considering family or international law. This semester, she’s excited to improve her public speaking and confidence and to meet new people. She loves F1, Hurricane Child, and Law & Order: SVU, and she swears sweet potato fries are elite (but gummy bears are gross). Something surprising? She can do a backbend on command. Naomi runs on vanilla bean frappuccinos—or an iced vanilla chai from Dutch—and her guilty pleasure is chocolate. If she could pick a superpower, she’d choose teleportation to explore the world.
Quote: “We may encounter many defeats, but we must not be defeated.” — Maya Angelou
Anthem: Shine – Cleo Sol
Year in SDMT: 1st
sam mcgee
Sam McGee (he/him) is a senior from Seattle majoring in Journalism and Mass Communication with a focus in Public Relations. He interns at Doran Justice, is writing his thesis on the Bruen decision, and reads in his free time. Sam hopes to work as an attorney in criminal defense or civil rights in New York. He’s looking forward to making the most of his final year with SDMT. An INTJ and Scorpio, he loves pesto pasta, Runaway Horses by Yukio Mishima, and The Sopranos. He’ll die on the hill that night showers beat morning ones. Something you might not guess? He’s double-jointed in his left thumb. Sam orders an iced Americano, admits his guilty pleasure is sleeping in, and says his dream superpower would be mind reading.
Quote: “A man who procrastinates in his choosing will inevitably have his choice made for him by circumstance.” — Hunter S. Thompson
Anthem: This Night Has Opened My Eyes – The Smiths
Year in SDMT: 4th
Grace Nagy
Grace Nagy (she/her) is a junior from Mesa, Arizona, double majoring in Philosophy (Morality, Politics & Law) and Global Studies. She’s already had a taste of the legal world through internships in law and politics, and on weekends, she trades business attire for ballgowns—working as a princess performer at children’s birthday parties. Grace hopes to attend law school and pursue a career in civil rights law. This semester, she’s excited to see how SDMT grows while she’s abroad and looks forward to returning with new experiences and reconnecting with her teammates. Her favorite mock trial memory is the team earning two bids out of ORCS last season. A Leo and ENFJ, Grace loves Arrival, The Song of Achilles, and Arrested Development. Her guilty pleasure is rewatching the same movies over and over again, and when she’s not cross-stitching or embroidering “like an old lady,” you’ll find her with a dirty chai in hand. She insists that Elle Downey could defeat one trillion ants—and if she had a superpower, she’d want that exact one.
Quote: “You must not ever stop being whimsical. And you must not, ever, give anyone else the responsibility for your life.” — Mary Oliver
Anthem: Back to the Basics – Lana Del Rey
Anthem: “Heartbeat” – Childish Gambino
Year in SDMT: 3rd
Miryam Nielson
Miryam Nielson (she/her) is a freshman from Colorado City studying Political Science and earning a certificate in Political History and Leadership. She loves rewatching The Office, grooming her family’s dogs, and going to clubs on campus. Miryam hopes to become an attorney and build a strong professional network during her time at ASU. An Aquarius who loves anything with raspberries, she counts The Book Thief and The Office (or Better Call Saul when she’s serious) among her favorites. Her unpopular opinion? Conversations with people you disagree with can be more fun than with people who agree with you. She’s a retired Xbox player who used to beat her older brother at Call of Duty. With a vanilla latte in hand, she’s ready for the semester. If she could choose a superpower, it would be the ability to retain everything she learns.
Quote: “Get busy living or get busy dying.” — The Shawshank Redemption (1994)
Anthem: Anti-Hero – Taylor Swift
Year in SDMT: 1st
Melissa Nowacki
Melissa Nowacki (she/her) is a sophomore from Chandler majoring in Business Law. Outside of SDMT, she’s active in Kappa Alpha Pi, a pre-law and government fraternity, where she serves as VP of Programming, and she works as a concierge at an assisted living facility. Melissa hopes to attend law school and eventually practice criminal law. This semester, she’s excited to meet more people and sharpen her trial skills. Her favorite mock trial memory is the car rides to and from tournaments. She’s a Pisces who loves Italian food, Legally Blonde, and The Summer I Turned Pretty. Her go-to drink is a blonde vanilla latte, her guilty pleasure is Dr. Pepper with M&Ms, and her unpopular opinion is “Books > Movies.” If she had a superpower, she’d choose invisibility.
Quote: “The best way to predict your future is to create it.” — Peter Drucker
Anthem: Life Is a Highway – Tom Cochrane
Year in SDMT: 2nd
Anusha rahman
Anusha Rahman (she/they) is a senior from Chandler, Arizona, studying Economics and Political Science. Outside of SDMT, Anusha serves as President of the Honors College Council, advises ASU Global Resolve, and works as a Writing Mentor for the ASU Writers’ Studio. She also volunteers at a local domestic violence center supporting Muslim refugees. Anusha hopes to become a lawyer working with South Asian and Muslim domestic violence survivors and is excited to meet new people this semester. Her favorite mock trial memory is getting stuck overnight in the O’Hare Airport before competing at nationals. Anusha is a fan of Sylvia Plath’s words, falafel bowls, and Mango Arnold Palmers. Her guilty pleasure? Eating frosting straight from the tub. Anusha brings unique perspectives to the team, like her belief that YouTube Music is the best streaming service, and if she could choose a superpower, she’d pick time travel.
Quote: “I talk to God, but the sky is empty.” – Sylvia Plath
Anthem: Think Twice – Piri & Higgo
Year in SDMT: 4th
Elias Ramirez
Elias Ramirez (he/him) is a freshman from Ripon, California, double majoring in Political Science and Psychology while pursuing a Cross-Sector Leadership certificate. Outside of class, he’s usually hanging out with friends, listening to music, or playing the piano. Elias hopes to attend Harvard Law after graduating in 2029, become a white-collar defense attorney, and one day serve as a U.S. Senator. This semester, he’s excited to dive into the academic and competitive atmosphere of SDMT. His favorites include sushi, Mid 90s, Nineteen Minutes, and Breaking Bad. A Virgo and ESTJ, he admits his guilty pleasure is watching mukbangs, and something you might not guess is his piano talent. He fuels up with caramel apple spice drinks from Starbucks—“like an apple pie in a cup”—and would love the superpower of being naturally good at everything.
Quote: “Burn the ships.”
Anthem: Anything by Frank Ocean
Year in SDMT: 1st
Naeha Ravikumar
Naeha Ravikumar (she/her) is a sophomore from Chandler double-majoring in Philosophy (Morality, Politics, and Law) and Spanish, with a Cross-Sector Leadership certificate. She’s part of the Next Generation Service Corps, coaches high school mock trial, and loves to sing and dance to K-pop. Naeha knows she wants to be a trial advocate in the courtroom (prosecution or defense) and is excited to learn new techniques with new teammates. Her favorite mock trial memory is making history with her F-Team by earning a bid to ORCS. She’s an Aries and ENTJ who insists mint chocolate chip does not taste like toothpaste. Her go-to is a caramel frappuccino, her guilty pleasure is Korean BBQ, and if she could teleport, her first stop would be a BTS concert.
Quote: “Even when I fall and hurt myself, I keep running towards my dream.” — BTS
Anthem: What It Sounds Like – HUNTR/X
Year in SDMT: 2nd
Rylie Reese
Rylie Reese (she/her) is a sophomore born in Kissimmee and raised in Phoenix, studying Business Law and adding Accounting with a Sports, Law, and Business certificate. She’s been training Brazilian Jiu Jitsu for three years and even competes—though she’s also scared of airplanes. Rylie plans to go into civil litigation, specifically medical malpractice. This semester, she’s excited for mini-road trips with her teammates. She loves Mamma Mia! and Pride and Prejudice, swears only Thumbs is a good Sabrina Carpenter song, and her guilty pleasure is buying concert tickets months in advance. She usually orders a Shirley Temple and would choose flight as her superpower.
Quote: “What gives light must endure burning.” — Victor Frankl
Anthem: Musician – Porter Robinson
Year in SDMT: 2nd
Connor Riley
Connor Riley (he/him) is a junior from Beaverton, Oregon, studying Business Law and Thought & Political Economy. When he’s not in class, he’s either working out, cooking, or hanging out with friends. Connor hopes to pursue a career in corporate or sports law and is fired up to win tournaments and grow with the team this semester. He loves steak, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 1, and sipping a vanilla latte with four shots of espresso. A Libra who swears Henry Cavill was the best Superman, Connor also has a soft spot for Britney Spears playlists. Something you wouldn’t guess? He’s into philosophy readings in his downtime. If he had a superpower, it would be the ability to control time.
Quote: “Do or do not, there is no try.” – Yoda
Anthem:Sports Car – Tate McRae
Year in SDMT: 2nd
Finnegan roffler
Finnegan Roffler (he/him) is a sophomore from Chandler majoring in Political Science with a minor in Philosophy. Outside of SDMT, he works part-time at a bowling alley and arcade called Round One and judges speech and debate tournaments on the weekends. Finnegan plans to pursue law but hasn’t settled on a specific path yet. This semester, he’s eager to rejoin the competitive speaking world and experience the thrill of tournaments again. He’s a fan of The Grand Budapest Hotel, Ethiopian food, and sipping black coffee—or better yet, a late-night pot of tea. His guilty pleasure is winding down with tea before bed, and his unpopular opinion is that public parking around campus should be completely free. Something surprising? Ask him what number he’s thinking of—he swears he’ll stump you. If he could have a superpower, he’d choose heat vision.
Quote: (He’s still choosing one!)
Anthem:Last Train to London – Electric Light Orchestra
Year in SDMT: 1st
Hope salinas
Hope Salinas (she/her) is a freshman from Phoenix majoring in English Literature with a minor in Animation. She hopes to become both a lawyer and a published author with a PhD someday. Hope is especially excited to travel and meet new people this semester. She loves Beauty and the Beast, The Cruel Prince, and Jujutsu Kaisen, and she admits her guilty pleasure is diving into a warm Pizzookie topped with ice cream. A Capricorn and proud Ravenclaw, she swears mint ice cream tastes like toothpaste. Hope practiced jiu-jitsu competitively, fuels up with green tea, and would choose mind reading as her superpower.
Quote: “To infinity and beyond!” — Toy Story
Anthem:Secret Door – Arctic Monkeys
Year in SDMT: 1st
Meghan Searle
Meghan Searle (she/her) is a senior from Mesa majoring in Political Science with a minor in Economics. She balances school with work as a Pre-Litigation Case Manager at an employment law firm and plans to go into international business law. Meghan is looking forward to getting the program back to NATs. Her favorite mock trial memory is A & B teams squeezing hands waiting for results at L.A. ORCS last year. She swears by steak salads and bone marrow, and her favorites include The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari and Rolling in the Deep. A consistent shooter on the basketball court (friends will vouch for her 3-point shot), she powers through her day with green tea and honey. Her guilty pleasure is coconut water mixed with Pellegrino and lime. If she could have a superpower, she’d choose to absorb and retain knowledge instantly.
Quote: “Give out what you most want to come back.” — Robin Sharma
Anthem: Rolling in the Deep – Adele
Year in SDMT: 3rd
jenna skavdahl
Jenna Skavdahl (she/her) is a sophomore from Ripon, California, studying Civic and Economic Thought and Leadership with a certificate in Cross-Sector Leadership. She serves as the Civic Engagement Mission Team Leader for the Next Generation Service Corps, works as a Devils’ Advocate Tour Guide, and grades courses on campus. Jenna hopes to become a lawyer and eventually a judge. This semester, she’s excited to meet new people and travel with the team. A Taurus who loves The Parent Trap, The Poisonwood Bible, and Friends, she swears chocolate cake is the perfect dessert. Her unpopular opinion? Disneyland isn’t that great. Something surprising—she’s been to all 50 states. Jenna runs on vanilla cold brews, has a soft spot for Reese’s peanut butter cups, and dreams of flying as her superpower.
Quote: “Life is what happens to you when you are busy making other plans.” — John Lennon
Anthem:New Romantics – Taylor Swift
Year in SDMT: 1st
Chris Tharalson
Chris Tharalson (he/him) is a freshman from Scottsdale studying Business (Law). Music is his daily routine—he’s practicing guitar, hitting the gym, and heading out with the Outdoors Club when he can. Chris hopes to earn an MBA, then a JD, and ultimately pursue a joint JD-MBA. He’s pumped to compete and especially excited for crosses—new challenge, new rush. He’ll recommend Harry Potter, Leaders Eat Last, and Breaking Bad, order his coffee black, and argue that microwaving leftover pizza is totally fine. He says he has a knack for sales; his guilty pleasure is bingeing TV shows; and he’d choose super-intelligence as a superpower.
Quote: “Compare yourself to who you were yesterday, not to who someone else is today.” — Jordan Peterson
Anthem:Maple Syrup – The Backseat Lovers
Year in SDMT: 1st
tess tuka
Tess Tuka (she/her) is a freshman from Gilbert majoring in Business, with plans to transition into Business Law. She balances school with trips to the gym, work, and plenty of time with friends. Teresa hopes to become either an immigration or family lawyer. This semester, she’s excited to make new connections and find opportunities through SDMT. A seafood fan and Aquarius ENFJ, she proudly says everything Marvel—except Spider-Man—is overrated. She loves The Hobbit, can recite Hamilton start-to-finish, and has logged over 70 anime shows. Teresa usually reaches for an energy drink, admits her guilty pleasure is binging anime, and if she could have a superpower, it would be teleportation (with objects in tow).
Quote: “Keep Moving Forward.”
Anthem: She’s Always a Woman – Billy Joel
Year in SDMT: 1st
aris vakanas
Aris Vakanas (he/him) is a sophomore from Tempe, double majoring in Political Science and Urban Planning. He dreams of one day arguing a case before the Supreme Court—and maybe even serving on it someday—a goal that fuels his dedication to mock trial. Aris is also an artist and a writer, bringing creativity into everything he does. This semester, he’s looking forward to learning more about the trial process and meeting new people on the team. A fan of AJR and Panic! at the Disco, Aris often turns to music for inspiration. He loves katsu curry, swears by chocolate milk over coffee, and admits his guilty pleasure is blasting Claire Rosinkranz’s girly pop songs. If he could pick a superpower, it would definitely be super speed.
Quote: “I am not fit for this office and never should have been here.” – Warren G. Harding
Anthem:Inertia – AJR / That Green Gentleman – Panic! at the Disco
Year in SDMT: 1st
Ally valletta
Ally Valletta (she/her) is a sophomore from Phoenix, majoring in Justice Studies and minoring in Dance. Ally hopes to go into wrongful convictions at work or family law, though she’s open to other paths. She loves surfing at Lake Pleasant and spending time outdoors, but she’s equally happy curling up with a good Italian dinner. This semester, she’s looking forward to being part of a team that feels like family. Ally is a huge fan of The Price is Right, has been doing dance for years, and can often be found sipping a chai latte with a shot of espresso. She’s motivated, a little quirky, and always full of enthusiasm. If she could have a superpower, she’d choose teleportation, because who doesn’t hate traffic?
Quote: “Until I feared I would lose it, I never loved to read. One does not love breathing.” – Harper Lee
Anthem: Pull the Plug – Ashe
Year in SDMT: 1st
Audra ward
Audra Ward (she/her) is a freshman from Tempe studying Finance and Civic and Economic Thought and Leadership in Barrett, The Honors College. When she’s not in class, you’ll find her working as a hostess or at FMA meetings, and she’s already soaking up everything SDMT has to offer. Audra is working toward law school with hopes of one day practicing in Washington, D.C. She’s excited to meet new people and learn from this experience throughout the season. A Sagittarius (and ENTP) who swears by sushi and Good Will Hunting or Percy Jackson on a cozy night in, she’ll also admit she doesn’t like soda—or most flavored drinks. Fun fact: she loves making pottery pieces in her free time. Fueled by chai lattes and a guilty love of anything peanut butter, Audra brings a warm, curious energy to the team. If she could pick a superpower, she’d go for telekinesis—or flight.
Quote: “Everything happens for a reason.”
Anthem: Vienna – Billy Joel
Year in SDMT: 1st
EmMA Wymore
Emma Wymore (she/her) is a senior from Prescott, Arizona, double majoring in Economics and Political Science with minors in Global Studies and French. Outside of SDMT, she works two jobs—one with ASU’s Sexual Relationship Violence Prevention program and another with Doran Justice. Her work is driven by a passion for preventing people from having to interact with the criminal justice system and ensuring that the system works the way it’s supposed to. She’s also an advocate for improving sex education and serves as part of Devils in the Bedroom, a sexual health and wellness club that recently partnered with USG to distribute 500 menstrual cups and sanitizers to students for free—something she credits to the public speaking skills she gained from Mock Trial. Emma hopes to become a lawyer, ideally working at a firm that practices private international law while maintaining a robust pro bono program for criminal defense work. Her favorite mock trial memory is SDMT earning two bids to nationals for the first time in 11 years. She loves Coraline, Les Justes by Albert Camus, and Sex and the City, and says her favorite meals are anything homemade and shared with friends. Fluent in Japanese and French, Emma drinks a blend of Earl Grey and espresso topped with soy milk, snacks on Takis and beer, and jokes that she’s on level 1,160 of Candy Crush. If she could have any superpower, it would be teleportation—to see her friends and family anytime, anywhere.
Quote: “Don’t be a chocolate éclair.” — inspired by Theodore Roosevelt
Anthem:Shinpai Muyou – Yuki Chiba
Year in SDMT: 3rd
Sun Devil Mock Trial 