800-951-4888 x7938
winifred.li@ropesgray.com

I grew up in the suburbs of Boston but Chinese was my first language. I remember my first days of public school, of not understanding any of the English spoken in the classroom. Those were the days of total immersion. Bilingual education was not an option. I remember for years after being very hesitant to speak because I felt I could not be sure in what language the words would come out, but I don’t think I ever made any mistakes. I don’t know if a bilingual education program would have helped or hindered my progress.

For decades I wondered if people noticed first that I was Asian or a woman. Now, finally, it doesn't really matter to me any more. I have come to this point only because (1) I have been fortunate to have the support of mentors, colleagues and clients who have always looked first to my abilities and personality and (2) the increasing numbers of attorneys and clients who are women, of color, or both have made the situation much more comfortable for all of us.

Ropes & Gray is a wonderful place to work. The people are intelligent, ethical and professional. The work is interesting and can provide extraordinary opportunities for a lawyer to grow.

Wini was the first Asian-American partner at a Boston-based law firm.

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