Single mom passes California Bar exam on first try and goes viral

In Sacramento, California, a single mother named Rhianna Gordon achieved a remarkable milestone by passing the California Bar exam on her first try. This accomplishment garnered significant attention online when she shared an emotional TikTok video depicting her reaction alongside her two children, Flinn and Rhiley. With nearly 30 million views, the video has resonated with audiences as it showcases the joy and relief of a mother who overcame numerous challenges to reach her goal. Gordon's journey to becoming an attorney was fraught with difficulties. As a single mother in her 30s, a woman of color, and a survivor of domestic violence, she defied the odds. Her transformation began during the COVID-19 pandemic when she decided to change her career from working for the state's Department of Transportation to pursuing her passion for law and justice. This change required her not only to study rigorously but also to take the LSAT and navigate the complexities of applying to law schools. After receiving acceptance into UC Law San Francisco, Gordon later chose to enroll in UC Davis, which allowed her to keep her children rooted in their school and sports activities. Throughout her three years in law school, Gordon faced unique challenges as she was the only single parent among her graduating class of 260. She openly discussed the importance of seeking help from family and friends during this period, and she documented her experiences on social media, which helped to inspire and motivate others. Gordon's emotional reaction upon passing the exam was one of relief, as she expressed that this moment solidified the values she imparted to her children about hard work and perseverance. Now qualified to practice law, she is currently working at the California Department of Justice in the honors program, where she enjoys balancing her career with parenting, attending her kids' sports activities, and promoting the message that with dedication, anything is achievable.