With a deep commitment to social justice and a passion for understanding legality through the lens of cultural development, Varsha Torpunuri found her calling in the study of Anthropology. At Irvine Valley College (IVC), she combined her major with a Paralegal Certificate and a Pre-Law track to build a powerful foundation for a future in human rights and Indigenous law. 

“Studying people and systems together gave me the clarity I needed,” Varsha said. “It helped me understand that real change comes from legal advocacy grounded in cultural understanding.” 

Varsha’s journey at IVC is defined by leadership, scholarship, and impact. As Vice President of External Affairs in student government, she led initiatives such as IVC’s first-ever Local Candidate Town Hall and the launch of the Anti-Discrimination Pledge—earning both the Justice of the Year and Executive of the Year awards for her efforts. She also co-founded and served as Vice President of IVC’s Mock Trial Team, representing the college at the nationwide American Mock Trial Association (AMTA) Community College Clash.

A strong academic achiever, Varsha has made the Dean’s List every semester and was awarded the Honors Transfer Council of California’s Exemplary Achievement Award. As part of the Honors Program Student Council, she served as a peer mentor and presented original research on intellectual property law at the Bay Honors Symposium at UC Berkeley.

Beyond the classroom, Varsha interned at Community Legal Aid SoCal, providing legal support for underserved populations, and completed a political organizing internship. She also represented IVC as a Student Ambassador, helping build community and inspire future students. 

This fall, Varsha will transfer to UC Berkeley, having also been accepted to UCLA, UC San Diego, UC Santa Barbara, and the UCI Honors College. After earning her bachelor’s degree, she plans to attend law school and continue pursuing her mission to protect and advocate for vulnerable communities.

She leaves future students with this advice: “Trust yourself and stay open to growth. Everyone starts somewhere, and it’s okay not to have all the answers right away. IVC gave me the space and support to explore, reflect, and grow—and it will for you too. Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. Your time here will go by quickly, so take every opportunity to make it your own.”