Austin Tapuro Shares His Experience as a First-Generation Attorney in The Legal Intelligencer

05.30.2025

Stinson LLP associate Austin Tapuro authored an article for The Legal Intelligencer, "Breaking New Ground as a First-Generation Attorney," in which he reflects on his experiences as a first-generation law student and attorney.

Tapuro shares insights from his childhood in Hawaii, growing up in a first-generation Asian immigrant household, and how values such as self-reliance, humility and hard work shaped his path. He relied heavily on these traits as he left Hawaii to attend college in the Midwest, navigating geographic, academic and cultural changes all at once.

He also examines the significance of tradition in the legal profession, noting that many attorneys benefit from guidance passed down by family members or close contacts in the field. As a first-generation law student, Tapuro lacked that immediate support system and instead relied on his curiosity and determination to succeed. He learned to embrace mistakes as opportunities for growth and legal development.

"Because of my upbringing, I believed that I had to figure everything out independently and produce perfect work from the beginning. However, over time, I came to understand that practicing law means continuously learning," Tapuro writes. "Seeking feedback or assistance is not a sign of weakness but rather an essential part of professional growth."

Tapuro is a labor and employment attorney who helps employers navigate the complexities of traditional labor law in both unionized and non-unionized workplaces. He is well-versed in a broad range of employment issues, including discrimination, harassment, retaliation, severance and non-compete agreements. He also advises clients on drafting personnel policies that support compliant and productive work environments.

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