Law Student Representative: April Franklin
Grateful for the variety of opportunities the NCBA has provided her, 2025-26 law student representative April Franklin is excited to give back and help other students connect with the resources and initiatives of the NCBA.
As a nontraditional student, pursuing a legal career is actually April’s second career. She earned her bachelor’s degree from North Carolina State University before working in the health care field and serving as an advocate for family caregivers and seniors. Her passion for working with seniors led her to pursue a dual master’s degree in business administration and gerontology from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro.
After completing her master’s, April helped create a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization to support caregivers in her church and surrounding community. Her own experience as a millennial caregiver to her grandparents also inspired her to write a tip book titled “The Millennial’s Guide to Caregiving: It’s All About YOU!” This advocacy work opened her eyes to opportunities in the legal field and ultimately inspired her to pursue a law degree at Elon University School of Law.
I knew that Elon was the place for me after I made a meaningful connection with a 3L student who was also an N.C. State alum at a networking event. Networking is key! Speaking with her about her experience solidified that Elon was the place for me. Since being here, I’ve learned that it’s important to run your own race and focus on what you can do. Your journey is your journey, and you can’t compare it to anyone else’s.
When she first began law school, April’s goal was to focus on estate planning and elder law. However, after serving as a North Carolina Bar Foundation Open Door Fellow, she discovered an interest in working in-house at a corporation with a focus on employment law. She hopes to continue her work in estate planning and elder law through pro bono opportunities after becoming a licensed attorney.
In addition to serving as an NCBA law student representative, April is a leadership fellow, a member of the Moot Court Board, an executive board member of the Black Law Students Association, a peer mentor and an Elon Law admissions ambassador.
When she isn’t studying law, April enjoys sports (especially football) and spending time with family and friends.
Are you interested in helping April represent the NCBA at accredited law schools across the state? Learn about the NCBA Law Student Division.