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Student Ambassadors

Alizabeth Volkman
2021
Poughkeepsie, NY
University at Albany, SUNY
Major: Criminal Justice and Sociology; Minor: Homeland Security and Psychology
To be able to practice law in a field that I can be genuinely passionate about that serves a positive purpose.
I’ve only been here a short amount of time but the most meaningful thing I’ve experience so far is the overwhelming support I have received from the students, staff, and faculty. Everyone is always there to offer help or guidance!
Albany is one of the best areas you could be while in law school. There are so many opportunities because we are right in the Capital region, and it is a really great place to make connections for the future. Aside from that, there are so many opportunities within the school itself (from clubs to internships) to enhance your experiences in the field of law. The faculty, staff, alumni, and trustees are all so dedicated to helping you reach your goals to find success in the future. There is a friendly competitive nature within the classroom- everyone wants to be the best, but nobody wants to see anyone else left behind. It makes for a really unique atmosphere that you won’t find anywhere else.
I chose Albany Law because I feel at home here. I’ve been in Albany for a while so it made sense for me to go to school here out of convenience, but since the day I came for a tour I knew it was the right choice for me, regardless of the location. Every single person at this school from classmates to staff is so supportive, welcoming, and helpful, and they genuinely care about the success of each student. That was what I liked the most. It’s not as cut throat or competitive as most other law schools, it’s more of a family that will always be there for you, while still pushing you to be the best.
avolkman@albanylaw.edu
Andrew Ellis
2021
Syracuse, NY
Clarkson University
Biology and Psychology
I would like to work in the government of public interest law. My goal is to find meaningful work developing policies that are in the best interests for Americans of all walks of life.
The support I received from a professor when I went for advice on how to better manage my time, they listened to what I had to say gave me feedback as well as encouragement to keep pushing forward.
At Albany Law there are a lot of opportunities to receive the help you need from staff, if I have any questions about a class or advice on for future employment, I know exactly where I can go for help. Everyone here is very nice, friendly, and there is plenty to do in the area when you need to get away from school for a little while and relax.
Albany isn’t too far from my hometown and Albany Law has a tight knit community that allows me access to all of my professors to ask questions and receive the advice I need in making decisions for my future.
aellis@albanylaw.edu
Brandon Das
2022
Schenectady, NY
Syracuse University
Major - Advertising, Minor - Strategic Management and Political Science
I have done my best to come into law school with an open mind. As someone with a wide range of interests I hope to use my next several at Albany Law to determine the best path as I pursue a professional career. My primary objective is to find a career that will utilize my strengths while providing opportunity for growth as I take on new challenges.
Attending the homecoming weekend rugby game and picnic has been the most memorable and impactful experience at Albany Law thus far. Having the opportunity to speak with a range of alumni that have found success in their field was inspiring. Seeing the physical representation of the hard work and long hours of law school paying off, coupled with the beautiful weather, made for a great day.
There exists at Albany Law a community feel that extends both inside and outside the classroom. While attending accepted student’s day many of the current students referenced the helpful and cohesive feel of the student body, however I did not understand fully until I began classes. Whether it be clarification of a difficult case or simply a restaurant recommendation, I have found Albany Law students are always looking to lend a hand to their fellow classmates and improve the experience of all.
Growing up in the Albany area I had the chance to interact with many Albany Law alumnus and current students. All spoke very highly of their time at Albany Law and the relationships they built with their professors and classmates. I wanted to find a law school where I would feel comfortable and confident approaching the faculty when in need of assistance.
bdas@albanylaw.edu
Cassandra Carudo
2023
Suffern, NY
SUNY Oswego
Economics and Marketing
While my goal is to pursue a career in public interest in New York State, and find a career that is fulfilling, I plan to keep an open mind to the opportunities that come my way while in law school.
I have only been here for one semester, but what is most meaningful to me so far is how willing the professors and teaching assistants are to go out of their way to help students. I always feel comfortable asking for help.
Work hard but take time for yourself. It’s important to have a good work-life balance, especially when you start acclimating to law school. Albany Law has a great community of students, faculty, and staff who are there to help you, so take advantage of them as resources.
I felt that going to law school in the New York State Capital would put me in a position to be as intertwined with the law as possible. Additionally, I heard of the amazing reputation the law school has, which lives up to the expectations. Lastly, being close to home and family was an additional deciding factor.
ccarudo@albanylaw.edu
Deirdre Macchia
2021
South Plainfield, NJ
Syracuse University
Major- Political Science, Minor- Sport Management
My goals upon graduation are exploring legal opportunities in the sports industry or in the labor and employment law sector, but I plan to leave my mind open to unique opportunities throughout my three years here.
In the small period of time I have spent here, Albany Law has already introduced us to so many wonderful alumni and prospective opportunities and career paths. I look forward to experiencing more memories with my fellow colleagues, as I involve myself in student organizations and school wide activities.
I chose Albany Law because of the warmness of the staff and faculty. Everyone at Albany Law truly wants to help you succeed, and that feeling was evident the moment I stepped on campus for a visit. Albany Law fosters a family environment amongst the faculty, staff, and student body that I know will far outlive my three years of law school.
dmacchia@albanylaw.edu
Elliot Buccieri
2021
Buffalo, NY
University of Dayton
Psychology and Criminal Justice Studies
I plan on entering the entertainment industry as a music lawyer, specializing in contracts, copyright, and intellectual property in relation to song writing.
My most meaningful experience thus far was during my Federal Civil Procedure class on September 11th when my professor explained to us that we are all entering a field of public service and he encouraged us to recognize where our services are most needed. He was working on Broadway in New York City at the time of 9-11, and he and his coworkers passed out cups of water as people rushed up the street. He said that legal service would do them no good in the midst of the emergency so he offered his help where he knew they needed it. This experience has motivated me to remain objective, recognize my own inspirations, and work hard so as to put myself in the best situation to help people.
Albany Law school has great professors that are passionate about their work and the field of law. Professors and other students are willing to share their experiences with you and are quick to offer their help.
I chose Albany Law for a few reasons. First, I plan on taking the New York Bar Exam and it was important to me to receive my law school education in New York. Second, I spoke to family friends who are Albany Law alumni and they held their experience with professors and the general education here in high regard. Lastly, I experienced the welcoming and supportive character of the Albany Law faculty when I visited the campus during my senior year of undergraduate. I felt very much at home here and I knew that this is where I wanted to go.
ebuccieri@albanylaw.edu
Gianni Presciutti
2021
Rochester, New York
Political Science
I am passionate about family law field and to hope make a difference in the lives of children and women in need.
My most meaningful experience so far has been working in admissions. The admissions crew, along with the rest of the staff at Albany Law, are some of the most kind and helpful people I have ever met. It is astonishing to me that I can walk into just about any office and have everyone know my name.
Your law school experience will fundamentally change who you are as a person for the better. I have grown more during my time at Albany Law than any point in my life.
I chose Albany Law because of its friendly atmosphere. Walking away from my tour I felt that the people here, both faculty and students, genuinely care about me and want to see me succeed. I’m glad to know that my initial impression was right.
gpresciutti@albanylaw.edu
Jenna DiBenedetto
Coxsackie, New York
Fordham University, Bronx, NY
Double Major in Environmental Studies and Anthropology on a Pre-Law Track.
I am interested in working in the private sector related to energy or environmental issues. I hope to work somewhere that makes me feel inspired every day.
My most meaningful experience so far has just been the warm and welcoming nature of everyone here. Entering a new community, especially one that can be competitive like law school, can be really scary. However, my professors have been so approachable and always make me feel like my goals are within my reach if I put in the work.
The best insight I can give to a prospective student is to be open and aware of the opportunities that are available for you. People sometimes come into law school with a specific idea for their future in mind and miss out on new experiences and paths by taking a class outside their comfort zone or trying out a club that they might not have originally considered.
I chose Albany Law because of the warm nature of every person I met here during my visit. I also have my family located in this area and appreciated having that support system during the stress of law school.
jdibenedetto@albanylaw.edu
Joseph Pidel
2021
West Babylon, NY
St. Joseph’s College in Patchogue, NY
Mathematics/Secondary Education
Although law school comes with competition, the staff and students at Albany Law are professional, encouraging, and welcoming. I am never nervous to ask professors or other students a question.
Having lived on Long Island my entire life, it was important for me to feel comfortable at the school and in the area near the school. While visiting Albany Law, I immediately felt welcomed and developed an appreciation for the surrounding city. I chose Albany Law for the unique opportunities that the New York State capital provides and because of the positive learning environment.
jpidel@albanylaw.edu
Kyle Pittman
2023
Rochester, New York
The College at Brockport, SUNY
Major: Political Science; Minor: International Studies
I have come to Albany Law with an open mind regarding my plans upon graduation. That being said, I am looking forward to taking a wide range of courses to decide what field I will approach in the future.
Thus far, my most meaningful memory is experiencing how approachable the Albany Law community is. Right from the first week of classes, I made meaningful relationships that will last beyond my time here at Albany Law.
Take advantage of the many opportunities Albany Law has to offer. There are plenty of groups and other societies that in-coming students can join. It makes the Law School experience more exciting when you get involved and make new relationships.
Albany Law has an outstanding reputation for its student body, professors, and alumni. Everyone I have come across thus far is more than willing to help students grow not only in their studies but professionally as well. The School is also uniquely located to opportunities in New York City and Boston for those who wish to gravitate towards those popular areas.
kpittman@albanylaw.edu
Matthew Skinner
2022
Shortsville, NY
Hobart and William Smith Colleges
Major – Philosophy; Minors – Physics and Environmental Studies
I would like to be in a place that will support professional and personal growth, satisfy my intellectual curiosity, and lead me down a path to fulfillment. Where that is exactly will have to be determined.
Thus far, joining the rugby team has been the most meaningful experience. I have met many individuals in my year who form a great support system, and upperclassmen and alumni who provide mentorship and guidance. Beyond that, we also have a great time socializing and hitting people – on the field of course!
I have only been here about two and a half months, but I can’t help but feel the strong sense of community here. While we are all competitive, we support one another and want each other to succeed. There is also a plethora of leadership and skill building opportunities here. Whether it’s the Student Bar Association, the Government Law Fellowship, or the many workshops, Albany Law has just about something for everyone.
I chose Albany law because of its location in New York State, reputation and connections with lawyers across the state, and because of the wonderful financial aid package. The City of Albany is close enough to opportunities in New York City and Boston, merely three hours from home, and I can easily escape on the weekends to Montreal or the Adirondacks. Most of the lawyers and judges I know from home who I look up to went to and highly recommended Albany Law. Albany Law also made law school affordable for me. As someone who has grown up and lived in a trailer park my whole life, an esteemed and noble profession such as one in the law seemed inaccessible to me. It’s because of the generous community members who want to give back that allowed me to come here.
mskinner@albanylaw.edu
Matthew Walsh
2022
St. Albans, Vermont
Southeastern University, Florida
Major in Legal Studies, Minor in History
The overall atmosphere of the school. Most people think of law school as cutthroat and competitive but here it is very easy to get involved and branch out and make friends.
Do not panic and take things one step at a time coming in to the school. It may seem a bit overwhelming at first but all of the professors and other students want to help you out. It is a community here!
My first time visiting the school on accepted students day I had no idea what to expect and knew almost nothing about the area. Everyone at Albany Law was very friendly and welcoming! Several of the admissions staff even knew my name coming in. This made a big impact on me in choosing a school and that coupled with the many opportunities in the area, I knew Albany Law was the place to be.
mwalsh@albanylaw.edu
Nick Wall
2021
Waukesha, Wisconsin
University of Wisconsin La Crosse
Public Administration / Major: Political Science / Emphasis: Public Policy
To practice law in the ever-evolving Renewable Energy field.
The very first day that I moved to New York, before orientation, I decided to walk around campus to become more familiar. As I was walking by the doors, Laurie Stevens, one of the admissions staff, came out and invited me in to look around the inside of the building. As this was happening, the Dean of the school happened to pass by with a few other professors and stopped to talk with me. After introducing themselves, they went on to tell me all about the school, learn my name, and say how excited they were that I was joining the Albany Law family. After leaving the school my father turned to me and said, “you found a school that cares about who YOU are, that’s an impressive quality.” From that moment on I knew this was going to be a place that help me succeed as a law student.
Albany Law has been nothing but welcoming since day one. Every professor, alumni, and dean are here to help you succeed. The opportunities available to students at Albany Law are endless. Between different clubs, alumni events, internships, and networking, there will be some way that you will feel welcome.
I chose Albany Law because of the friendly atmosphere and the opportunities that are available in the capital region.
nwall@albanylaw.edu
Noor Khalid
2021
Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
University of Waterloo in Waterloo, Ontario
Major in Legal Studies, Minor in Sociology
Practicing Family law in NY or back in Ontario
I volunteered for the Alumni Gala Dinner and enjoyed the experience. I met with many Albany alumni from various graduating classes that practice in different areas of the law. This interaction was important because it showed different ways one can use their degree after graduation.
Albany Law is an excellent law school for those who genuinely want to help others, whether its within the school community or the neighboring community. There are many opportunities provided by Albany Law in the educational and professional manner. We’re a team here, and we strive to reach the final stretch together.
The friendly atmosphere of the students and faculty. Most law schools are competitive and that is ingrained in the classes and students, that is not the situation here. Everyone is friendly and helpful, we all care about reaching the end line.
mkhalid@albanylaw.edu
Robert Hojnacki
2023
Rome, NY
University at Albany
Political Science/ Business
While I have come to Albany Law with an open mind in terms of my future, I have always had a love for business so practicing corporate law is my goal.
My most meaningful experience has been joining the rugby team. Starting school in the middle of a pandemic made it difficult to meet people and try to adjust to law school. Once I joined the team, I instantly had a great support system and mentors who wanted to help me even in the virtual setting that we were in. The insight and guidance that the team provided helped me immensely and no questions I had went unanswered.
Law school may seem overwhelming at first, but you are never alone at Albany Law. The professors and staff will go above and beyond to help you in anyway possible. They understand what it’s like to be in law school, never hesitate to reach out for help!
The opportunities and possibilities that come from living in the capital district of New York are endless and that made me instantly fall in love with Albany. Once I visited Albany Law and felt the welcoming atmosphere from the faculty and students I knew that this was the school that would help me succeed.
rhojnacki@albanylaw.edu
Shellee Daniel
2021
Brooklyn, NY
Oakwood University
Social Work
I am seeking a career in family law, specifically juvenile justice.
One of my most meaningful experiences thus far was when I attended a professor’s office hours in the first month of school. Although the purpose of the meeting was to discuss a concept that I was confused about, the professor also took time out to ensure that I was scheduling time for selfcare. This moment stood out to me because it showed that my professor not only cared about me as a student, but as an individual as well.
The professors at Albany Law School are dedicated to your success as an aspiring legal professional. Although the professors wear many hats, they are always willing to make themselves available to help students.
I chose Albany Law School because of the friendly environment and the numerous opportunities available here in the Capital Region.
smdaniel@albanylaw.edu
Victoria Lang
2022
Saugerties, NY
Arkansas State University
Political Science/Business Management
Litigation, focused on criminal prosecution.
As a non-traditional student, with a family, and spending two hours a day commuting, the amount of support I have gotten from the school has been truly meaningful. The sense of family and support has a strong presence at Albany Law. Days where I haven’t had child care has never posed an issue, as all of my professors were very welcoming to me bringing my son to class. My professors have such open communication and a willingness to help their students get where they need to be, whether it is with academic help or listening and supporting students during difficult times.
Deciding to go to law school is a big decision, as is deciding where you want to spend those years. It can be overwhelming but asking the right questions and making a list of what is important to you for success is key. Our student ambassadors, myself included, can help make that process easier and are eager to do so! We are here not just to help you decide where to attend law school, but we are here during all of your years at Albany Law.
I chose Albany Law for a few reasons. I knew that its location would provide opportunities to meet lawyers, judges, prosecutors, and other legal professionals within the state’s judicial courts, legislature, and other firms and offices. I was also awarded a great scholarship that would alleviate the amount of student loan debt I will graduate with. In addition, the clinics and field placements that are available to students attracted me because it would enable me to gain practical experience prior to being admitted to practice.
vlang@albanylaw.edu