Pathways to Citizenship names Law Clerk Victor Liu Volunteer of the Month

Pathways to Citizenship recently announced in a news release that it is “proud to recognize Victor Liu, University of San Diego School of Law student, as its Volunteer of the Month for his outstanding contributions and commitment to immigrant communities across San Diego County.”

Before entering law school, Liu spent more than a decade in the tech industry as a project manager and cross-functional designer, eventually co-founding an agricultural technology startup that continues to operate today. After years of professional success, Liu returned to his long-standing goal of pursuing law, enrolling at USD School of Law with a clear focus on service.

“As a child born to immigrants, it’s an honor to be an aid in the pathway to citizenship for so many others,” Liu said in the news release. “The chance to work with Pathways while in law school allowed me to devote myself to something I truly care about.”

Through his volunteer work, Liu has represented six Pathways clients at immigration interviews, an opportunity he describes as both humbling and meaningful. He credits Pathways’ collaborative and mission-driven team for making the experience impactful.

“The joy and relief I saw in the faces of our clients were a testament to the hard work of an effective and determined team,” Liu said in the news release. “It’s a team I’m proud to be a part of.”

Liu is particularly inspired by Pathways’ approach to immigration work during challenging and politicized times. “Immigration work is not easy, especially in these changing times. The effectiveness of the Pathways team collaboratively working toward a common goal with an open style of communication will always inspire me.”

Sonya Williams, executive director of Pathways to Citizenship, praised Liu’s dedication and compassion. “Victor brings a rare combination of professionalism, empathy, and lived experience to his work,” Williams said in the news release. “He quickly earned the trust of both our team and our clients, and his contributions have made a real difference in helping families feel supported, prepared, and empowered.”

As a volunteer, Liu hopes to restore a sense of stability for immigrants navigating an uncertain legal landscape. “My main goal is to help people feel a sense of normalcy and belonging,” he said in the news release. “These are incredibly skilled legal professionals doing vital work, and I wanted to help facilitate that.”

To those considering volunteering, Liu’s message is simple: “Do it. Even if you feel inexperienced, you couldn’t find a better team to learn from.”

Pathways to Citizenship provides free and low-cost legal services and citizenship preparation to qualified immigrants in San Diego County, relying on dedicated volunteers like Liu to advance its mission of access, dignity, and opportunity for all.

For more information about volunteering or services, visit pathwaysSD.org.