Cornerstone Alumna Turns Calling Into Career

Driven by a deep sense of justice and rooted in her faith, Cornerstone alumna, Michelle (Castro) Souza, ‘19, turned her calling into a career. Now a licensed criminal attorney, she’s advocating for the voiceless, living out Micah 6:8, and proving that purpose and perseverance go hand in hand.   

A Heart for Justice

When asked what inspired her to pursue a career in law, the Cornerstone alumna and newly licensed attorney doesn’t hesitate: justice.

“I’ve always had a strong sense of fairness,” she explains. “I wanted to be someone who could stand up for those who might not be able to advocate for themselves, especially in the criminal sector.”

Foundations Built at Cornerstone

That sense of purpose was cultivated during her years at Cornerstone, where the academic and spiritual foundations laid the groundwork for her future success.

“Cornerstone helped me develop the traits I needed to succeed in law school: time management, organization, accountability, discipline, and diligence,” she shares. “But even more importantly, it shaped my faith. I learned that everything I do should be done in love and for God’s glory. That mindset carried me through every challenge.”

She also credits several Cornerstone staff members with playing a significant role in her journey:
 “Mrs. Nguyen, Mr. Baker, and Mrs. Robbins, thank you for believing in me, pushing me to be my best, and providing the support I needed.”

Lessons from Law School

After graduating from college, she enrolled in Georgia State College of Law, an experience that brought both growth and grit.  

“Law school was incredibly formative. I built deep friendships, honed my legal writing and research skills, and gained courtroom experience as a Student Attorney representing real clients,” she says.

Through both clinical programs and internships, she practiced under licensed attorneys, appearing in court and working on real cases long before graduation. “Those hands-on opportunities gave me confidence and clarity that I was right where I was meant to be.”

The Bar Exam: A Test of Faith and Endurance

But nothing could quite prepare her for the bar exam, the culmination of her legal training and the ultimate test of her endurance.

“Prepping for the bar was one of the most stressful and spiritually stretching experiences of my life. Every day felt uncertain. Was I studying the right way? Was I doing enough? I had to lean into my faith more than ever before.”

She remembers a powerful moment of surrender in the testing room:
 “I looked at the clock, then up to the ceiling, closed my eyes, and prayed: ‘God, give me peace, strength, and courage to conquer this exam.’ I knew I had done all I could. The rest was in His hands.”

Living the Dream and the Mission

Now officially sworn in as a criminal law attorney, she has already begun her career advocating for victims and working to uphold justice in and out of the courtroom.

“Each case is different. Justice doesn’t always look the same, but I remind myself every day of Micah 6:8: Act justly. Love mercy. Walk humbly. That verse grounds me. It’s how I want to live and lead.”

What’s Next

With her dream career in motion, she’s also cherishing the small joys: time with her husband and their energetic Border Collie, Milton.

“This next chapter is full of promise. I’m ready to keep learning, growing, and making a difference, one case, one client, one act of justice at a time.”

A Legacy That Inspires

Cornerstone is proud to celebrate this alumna’s journey from student to servant-hearted attorney and can’t wait to see the impact she’ll continue to make for years to come!

Her story is just one of many. What’s yours?

If you’re a Cornerstone graduate making an impact in your field, we want to highlight you! Click here to reach out and help us celebrate what God is doing through our alumni.