From TAP to Big Law: Alumna Kristi Thomas ’07 Reflects on Her Path to Partner at Sheppard Mullin
Kristi Thomas ’07 turned the opportunity she found at Widener University Commonwealth Law School into a career milestone, rising to partner at Sheppard Mullin, one of the nation’s top firms.
A Pennsylvania native who grew up in the state and earned her undergraduate degree at the University of Pittsburgh, Thomas always knew she wanted to be a lawyer but struggled with the Law School Admissions Test, or LSAT. “I was a good writer and communicator, and I had strong grades, but the LSAT was a hurdle,” she said. After several attempts, she was accepted into Widener University Commonwealth Law School’s Trial Admissions Program, which allows prospective students to take summer classes and experience law school firsthand as they seek to gain admission.
Thomas excelled, earning the highest mock exam grades and receiving a scholarship that solidified her place in the entering class. “That experience showed me the value of resilience,” she said. “Widener saw my potential when others did not. It opened doors for me that may have otherwise remained closed.”
She went on to graduate cum laude, serve as internal editor of the law journal, and pass the bar on her first attempt. After a short time practicing in Pennsylvania, Thomas decided she wanted more than the familiar East Coast routine. “I wanted year-round sunshine,” she said. She worked days at a Philadelphia firm while studying for the California bar at night, passed on her first try, and soon after made the move to Los Angeles. Today, she’s a partner at Sheppard Mullin, a full-service, nationally ranked firm with more than 1,200 attorneys worldwide.
Thomas credits Professor Randy Lee, who taught her constitutional law and torts, with sharpening her analytical skills and encouraging her to think creatively. When she struggled to quickly map fact patterns to tort elements, she devised a numbering system that saved time on exams. “That mindset of thinking outside the box has stayed with me and made me a better litigator,” she said.
Family also played a key role. Her aunt, a prosecutor, modeled the importance of showing up, responding promptly, and embracing opportunities. “She taught me that timing is everything and to put myself out there,” Thomas said.
Widener Law Commonwealth, she said, prepared her for the challenges of a major firm by teaching her to work hard, manage deadlines, and hone her writing. Beyond academics, the school gave her chances to develop a professional presence and build relationships. “Those skills later translated into business development opportunities for me as a practicing attorney,” she said.
At Sheppard Mullin, Thomas values the firm’s collegial and inclusive environment. “People are authentic and take the time to build internal relationships,” she said. “Partners mentor associates, and teams collaborate across practice groups. We work hard, but we also enjoy spending time together.” The firm also prioritizes pro bono work, professional growth, and community engagement, which Thomas said makes the practice more meaningful.
When asked what advice she would share with current students, Thomas pointed to curiosity as the key trait.
“Regardless of the role or practice area, ask questions and look for creative solutions,” she said. She also urged students to work hard but efficiently, leverage available tools, and make time for self-care.
“Finally, if you want something, don’t be afraid to go for it,” Thomas said.
