Alumni Spotlight Introducing...
Claudia Macias-Retson
’07 B.A. Political Economy
’11 J.D.
Pronoun: She/Her
I am from Oakland, CA and a first-generation Mexican-American college graduate. I have an identical twin, Nadia Macias-Driscoll ’07 B.A.,’11 J.D, who also went to undergrad and law school with me at UC Berkeley. I met my husband, Brian Retson ’11 MBA at UC Berkeley when he was obtaining his MBA at Haas while I was in law school. Upon graduating from law school, I worked as a staff attorney at a housing non-profit in Oakland where I provided direct legal services to diverse communities. After practicing for a number of years, I transitioned to higher education. I worked at Berkeley Law before moving to Chicago. After moving, I worked at Northwestern Law School and as a pre-law adviser at the University of Chicago. I currently work as a Career Services Adviser at the University of Chicago Law School.
Claudia Macias-Retson ’07 B.A.,’11 J.D. and her husband, Brian Retson ’11 MBA
What was your undergraduate life like at Cal? My years at Cal were some of the best years of my life. It was such an enriching experience for a number of reasons. First, I was surrounded by people from diverse backgrounds, and I learned a lot from everyone I met. I appreciated being exposed to a variety of people. I joined a Latino organization and met individuals from different affinity groups, but I also had friends in the Greek system and in Athletics. Secondly, I enjoyed taking classes in different subjects. I was amazed by the breadth of courses available at Cal and took advantage of that fact by enrolling in classes not related to my major but that I had an interest in. Ultimately, I worked hard and played hard. I was focused on academics because I knew I wanted to go to graduate school or law school. I was always able to have a lot of fun along the way and meet great people.
What advice would you give your undergraduate self? One of my favorite experiences at Cal was studying abroad. I think every student should go abroad at some point. My study abroad experience was life-changing. Also, Berkeley has so many resources, and students should take advantage of the many opportunities that Berkeley has to offer. Finally, foster relationships. This is something I could have been better about. You’re going to meet amazing people, from professors, friends in the dorms, individuals in student groups, etc., and I think it’s important to continue to find ways to keep in touch.
Claudia Macias-Retson ’07 B.A.,’11 J.D. and her twin sister, Nadia Macias-Driscoll ’07 B.A.,’11 J.D. at the UCB Chicanx Latinx Alumni Association Event in Chicago
What life lessons did you learn at Cal that still impact your daily life? During my time at Cal, I worked hard and played hard, and that remains true today. I think Berkeley taught me about work life balance. There are going to be moments when you need to buckle down and get things done, but it’s also important to make time for yourself, family, and friends. Self-care is also important to maintain, whatever that may mean for you.
How do you tap into your Cal Alumni network? I have been active with the Cal Alumni Club of Chicago ever since I moved to Chicago, six years now. Not only do I attend Cal events in the Chicagoland area, but I also help to organize and plan them. I strive to make sure there’s a community for alumni in the area, and I hope that our club is doing a good job. I joined the Cal Alumni Club of Chicago very quickly after I moved to Chicago because I didn’t know anyone here. I figured it would be a good network to tap into, and I was right. At the time, a few individuals were starting up the club again, and I became involved. I first served as Activities Chair, then President, Vice-President, and I am President again. I continue to be involved because I am very grateful for the education, experiences, and opportunities that Cal gave to me. It’s my way of giving back to a great institution that’s done a lot for me.
Claudia Macias-Retson ’07 B.A.,’11 J.D. and her husband, Brian Retson MBA ’11
at a Berkeley Law Football Tailgate Party with Oski
What is something that you’ve learned from being involved with your alumni chapter? I’ve learned that there are many individuals who want to give back to UC Berkeley and want to find a Cal community outside of California.
What is one thing you are looking forward to? The Chicago Chapter is hosting a celebration in Chicago the evening before the Cal/ Notre Dame football game. We are excited to host not only local alumni but also alumni traveling for the game. We are grateful to a local alum who offered her building’s space on the Magnificent Mile. So, not only will the company be great, but also the views of Chicago! Our chapter has been looking forward to seeing Cal football in the Midwest ever since they announced the Notre Dame game a few years ago.
Claudia Macias-Retson ’07 B.A.,’11 J.D. and her son Mateo at Sather Gate
