Student Ambassadors

Career Goal upon Graduation?

When I started my journey at Albany Law, my career goal upon graduating was to pursue a career in intellectual property or corporate law. However, I am excited for the opportunity to explore other practice areas.

What has been your most meaningful experience thus far?

My most meaningful experience at Albany Law so far was attending my first year orientation, where I got to connect with my classmates and professors. Building relationships with my peers not only helped me adjust to law school, but also gave me a community where I feel included. I have made some of the greatest friends since the first day I started at Albany Law, and going through the law school experience together has made it so much more fulfilling and worthwhile. Also, being able to meet my professors prior to the first day of classes made me feel a lot more comfortable, prepared, and excited to dive into the courses.

What insight can you give prospective students about Albany Law?

As a student here, you will never feel alone or be left to struggle. From your first day on this campus, the faculty and staff are beyond supportive in and out of the classroom, and will go out of their way to make you feel like you have everything you need to succeed. As well, upper class students are always there for you when you need a hand. Between giving you advice, inviting you to events, or lending a helping hand whenever you need it, there is always someone there for you during the times you need it most. There is truly a space for everyone at Albany Law, and the amount of support you receive is astounding.

Why did you choose Albany Law?

For me, there was no other law school but Albany Law. I knew I wanted to go to Albany Law since I was in middle school, which was the first time I set foot on this campus. Visiting this beautiful campus and feeling the sense of community from students, staff, and faculty made me feel like I was at home. Back then, I made it my goal to become a student at Albany Law, and I am so proud to call this place my home. Even after forcing myself to visit other law schools, I could not find the same sense of community that we have here. Aside from having an amazing community, being in the Capital Region of New York brings so many different opportunities, and the alumni network that Albany Law has is remarkable.

Career Goal upon Graduation:

My career goal is to practice in business and government law with a focus on litigation and negotiations. I aspire to build a career that bridges the private and public sectors, with the long-term goal of running for public office.

What has been your most meaningful experience thus far?

My most meaningful experience has been the ability to pursue my dreams in law while maintaining a solid professional career. Having the flexibility to work has allowed me to participate in diverse legal networking opportunities throughout the country and to build strong relationships with professionals across the region, even in a virtual program setting.

What insight can you give prospective students about Albany Law?

The Flex JD program is an unusual route, but Albany Law makes every effort to provide the same rigor, support, and sense of tradition as the full-time program. It offers flexibility without sacrificing the quality of education or the connections you can build within the legal community.

Why did you choose Albany Law?

I chose Albany Law because I knew I could trust the school with my legal journey. They seemed to value their commitment to supporting students not only throughout the program but also beyond graduation.

Career Goal upon Graduation:

I am a very curious person so I am fascinated by everything and everyone, so I am not entirely sure quite yet. Currently I am interested in sovereign state litigation. 

What has been your most meaningful experience thus far?

I really enjoyed my summer at the US Attorney's Office. The office was located at the District Court so not only did I get to work at USAO, but I also got to observe multiple trials and court proceedings. 

What insight can you give prospective students about Albany Law?

Don't be scared of cold calling! Law school has a reputation for being a rigorous program, and while that is true, if you keep up with your readings you will be just fine. Cold calling is intimidating, but once you have done it a couple of times you might even come to enjoy the adrenaline rush. Additionally, everyone gets cold called, so no one will hold it against you if you stumble a little on your answer. Albany law is a close community, and your classmates and other students will most certainly become your friends. Eventually you all will laugh about 1L stories. 

Why did you choose Albany Law?

I like the small class sizes that truly allow you to get to know your classmates and faculty. Its location also influenced my choice. Albany is small enough to still be affordable, but not so small that there are no activities around. 
 

Career Goal upon Graduation?

When I started law school, I was set on a career in criminal law after graduation. While that passion still drives me, I’ve come to embrace the uncertainty of my path. Each semester is an opportunity to explore new areas of law, and I love the process of learning and discovering what excites me most.

What has been your most meaningful experience thus far?

I can't pick just one experience; being part of the Flex JD Cohort has been meaningful in so many ways. From meeting some of my best friends to tackling the ups and downs of law school together, this journey has been nothing short of unforgettable. Getting through the first semester in one piece and seeing all the hard work pay off made it even more rewarding. And knowing we’re in a program that truly wants us to succeed just makes it all the better.

What insight can you give prospective students about Albany Law?

The path isn’t easy, but it’s absolutely worth it. Law school challenges you in ways you never imagined, but your mind is capable of far more than you think. When you feel like you have no idea what’s going on, just be patient, the “aha” moment will come, and it makes all the hard work worth it. 

Why did you choose Albany Law?

I chose Albany Law because of its small cohort size and the flexibility of the Flex JD program, which allowed me to pursue my legal education without relocating from my home in Nevada. This program gives me the opportunity to work, attend school, and stay close to home, all while remaining deeply connected to my professors, classmates, and the law school community.

Career Goal upon Graduation:

I plan to work in business law (corporate law) upon graduation. I am also interested in small business law, estate planning, property law, and litigation work.

What has been your most meaningful experience thus far?

I enjoyed getting to know other Flex JD students at our in-person sessions, but little did I know at the time that some of my new peers would become very close friends. I work in the real estate title industry, as well as own and manage a short-term investment property. The rest of my time is spent attending classes and studying for school. I've found that the only people who truly understand the balancing act of life's demands in these circumstances are the other students in the program. Together, we formed a tight-knit group that encourages and helps each other at every turn. I am so thankful for their support and friendship. This wonderful group is a testament to the quality of students Albany Law attracts and admits.

What insight can you give prospective students about Albany Law?

Albany Law School faculty and staff go above and beyond to make you feel welcome. They walk side-by-side with you throughout the journey. The one-on-one attention I have received from every level of the school's administration is impressive. You are not just a number here. They provide all the resources you need to succeed.

Why did you choose Albany Law?

As a non-traditional student with an established career, I knew I needed to find a JD program that would allow me to continue working while attending school. With less than 20 ABA-approved online programs nationwide at the time, I researched all of the options and compared school rankings, location, reputation, bar passage rates, course schedules, time zones, program lengths, costs of attendance, and scholarship opportunities. After weighing all of these factors, it was clear to me that Albany Law School was the perfect fit!
 

Career Goal upon Graduation? 

After graduation, I hope to do a judicial clerkship for a few years and then return home to NYC to work in a law firm. I am open and excited to learn about many areas of law during my time at Albany Law School.

What has been your most meaningful experience thus far?

The most meaningful experience thus far has been making connections with professors and networking with students and alumni.

What insight can you give prospective students about Albany Law?

Meet as many people as you can, be open to learning areas of law you may have never considered before, and, most importantly, be kind and patient with yourself. Take breaks and ask as many questions as you can.

Why did you choose Albany Law?

I am excited about the prospect of studying and working in the Capital of New York. Albany Law's connections are genuine and numerous as well.

Career Goal upon Graduation:

To live in the Albany area be able to provide legal services to the community and support my family.

What has been your most meaningful experience thus far?

Making life long connections and Albany Law.

What insight can you give prospective students about Albany Law?

Keep and open mind and get involved!

Why did you choose Albany Law?

I chose Albany Law because they aligned with my interests as well as my financial interests. Given Albany Law's incredible connections to the Capital Area and abroad, it was truly a no-brainer decision.
 

Career Goal upon Graduation:

Work within Commercial Law and/or create my own firm when the time is right.

What has been your most meaningful experience thus far?

My most meaningful experience was alumni weekend that we had here, it was the biggest event that I have saw while being here and it was a major networking opportunity for most of the students. I had the chance to meet a long list of alumni while participating in some exciting events

What insight can you give prospective students about Albany Law?

Don't judge a book by its cover. At first, I had Albany Law at the bottom of my list because I had no desire to be back here. Further down the line I realized that this was truly the best choice for me and I would make it every time. A smaller school was the absolute best chance for me to succeed as I would hope.

Why did you choose Albany Law?

I was familiar with people who went to Albany Law, and I was familiar with the area of Albany, so it was as easy as plug and play for me. The scholarship you receive for going to SUNY Albany was a big boost!
 

Career Goal upon Graduation?

After graduation, I hope to pass the bar and continue to live and work in Albany. As a 1L, I am not committed to a certain field of law just yet, but am interested in the government work that Albany Law gives us ample access to.

What has been your most meaningful experience thus far?

So far, I have been lucky to meet amazing professors and students that have made my experience better than I could have hoped for. Like many, I was nervous entering law school and unsure of what my path would look like. Those worries were quashed the second I began orientation and met other like-minded students who were preparing to take on the same task as I was. The support from the Albany Law community has underpinned every experience I have taken on, and I look forward to adding onto that support for other students!

What insight can you give prospective students about Albany Law?

My advice for incoming students is to take advantage of the opportunities you are offered! Whether it be learning how to prepare for a dinner interview, applying for jobs with the help of the Career Center, or joining a club that interests you, Albany Law offers various professional development events that will expand your community. During my first semester, I took part in the Veteran Law Day which encouraged local veterans to come to campus and receive free legal advice from practicing attorneys around the Albany area. This opportunity was amazing, and I was able to meet and thank members of our community that I would not have been able to meet without the event. 

Why did you choose Albany Law?

I chose Albany Law because of the school’s connection to their students and community. As a local to the Albany area, I was interested in a school that did not operate in a vacuum and supported their surrounding neighborhoods. ALS has provided me with countless opportunities and events to do just that and has encouraged me to take pride in aiding and hopefully improving upon the community. 

Career Goal upon Graduation?

Currently, I am most interested in pursuing Health Law, Family Law, and Trusts & Estates.

What has been your most meaningful experience thus far?

One of my most meaningful experiences has been accompanying my Lawyering Professor on an "Attorney for the Day" trip to Albany City Court, where we provided free legal representation to those in need. This hands-on experience immersed me in various aspects of being a lawyer, including client counseling, advocacy, and legal research. Initially, I wasn't interested in litigation, but this experience opened my eyes to the significant positive impact one can have on the community through court advocacy.

What insight can you give prospective students about Albany Law?

There are great advantages to attending an independent law school like Albany Law. As the only law school in a region filled with practicing attorneys, we benefit from an extensive network of lawyers who are eager to guide and mentor law students. We also have many networking and fundraising events throughout the semester that students are encouraged to attend, further enhancing our professional connections and opportunities. Additionally, the faculty and staff at Albany Law are incredibly invested in our growth, providing support and opportunities for our personal and professional development.

Why did you choose Albany Law?

I chose Albany Law because I knew that it was my goal to practice law in New York and that studying in the Capitol Region would provide me with unique opportunities that I wouldn’t receive elsewhere. Albany Law’s proximity to the New York Court of Appeals, The Third Department Appellate Division, and several government agencies provides us invaluable access that other law schools do not have.

Career Goal upon Graduation:

I hope to start in public defense and I am open to follow the government and public service track wherever it leads me.

What has been your most meaningful experience thus far?

Connecting with peers and professors on campus after our first year of school was incredibly meaningful for me. Being able to reflect on our experience thus far, and how far we had come since the year prior, was very impacting. I have built some incredible relationships with my peers. I am so proud of my cohort and grateful to be part of the Albany Law community.

What insight can you give prospective students about Albany Law?

Making a dream happen starts with one step. If that step leads you to Albany, you will be met with enthusiasm and a community that encourages you to be a better student, lawyer, and person. 

Why did you choose Albany Law?

With several years of experience in public service and non-profit work, currently as an EMT, I plan to follow the government track. Thus, I was first drawn to Albany Law because of its commitment to government law. Albany Law was the most responsive, communicative, and helpful staff that I interacted with in my law school search. Though other comparable programs existed, Albany’s commitment to its students and community ultimately solidified my decision. It's a choice I am incredibly happy I made!

Career Goal upon Graduation:

While I have not determined what concentration of law I would like to practice after graduating, I am interested in corporate, trusts and estates, and real estate law.

What has been your most meaningful experience thus far?

My most meaningful experience has been organizing a Rosh Hashanah celebration event with the other e-board members of Cardozo Legal Society. The process that goes into making sure everything runs smoothly is incredibly rewarding.

What insight can you give prospective students about Albany Law?

Albany Law is very community based and collaborative, but also focuses on personal growth and goals. It is important to prioritize your studies to ensure that you are understanding and retaining the material, but to also take time and work with others. There are a myriad of clubs here and joining at least one is extremely beneficial, especially because of the events and networking that are made available to members of the Albany Law community. 

Why did you choose Albany Law?

I grew up in the Albany area and have always known that I wanted to go to law school. During my junior year of high school, I was given the opportunity to tour the school and sit in on a family law class at Albany Law. This experience and how welcoming the staff and students are solidified the fact that this would be the school I would attend in the future. 
 

Career Goal upon Graduation?

I am interested in a few practice areas such as Prosecution, Family law, and Intellectual property law.

What has been your most meaningful experience thus far?

My most meaningful experience so far in the school would have to be getting involved with the moot court and the rugby team. Both have provided me with so many opportunities to make connections and friends with others as well as provide many opportunities to get involved with the school.

What insight can you give prospective students about Albany Law?

Albany law is an amazing place where you can really develop yourself both in and out of the classroom. So many students and faculty at Albany Law have pushed me out of my comfort zone to try new experiences that have benefited me while helping support me in any endeavor. 

Why did you choose Albany Law?

I chose Albany Law because it was not too far away from my home in Staten Island, and the phenomenal reputation it has around New York with public interest. 

Career Goal upon Graduation:

I would like to work as an Intellectual Property Attorney working with Patents, Trademarks, and Copyright.

What has been your most meaningful experience thus far?

There have been so many. If I had to pick one it would be coming back as a 2L to volunteer for Lean into Success. My first year would not have been as enjoyable (or doable) if not for the insight I gained and for the people I met through that program. Being able to come back and repay that experience with the incoming students allowed me create even more meaningful relationships and filled me with a sense of purpose.

What insight can you give prospective students about Albany Law?

Talk to as many people as you can in order to find your path and what works best for you. Every single person knows something that you don't know and you won't know until you ask. Who knows, you may even get a lifelong friend out of the interaction.

Why did you choose Albany Law?

Albany Law has a great reputation, so, off the bat, I knew I would get a quality education here. During the application process, I was working as a paralegal at a firm alongside Albany alumni and other attorneys who all spoke highly of the school. Then, while visiting campus, I was met with warm, welcoming energy and a variety of information--the school was beautiful and the opportunities were vast. What sealed the deal was the community: every person I meet has been ready to support and share information to help on my law school journey.
 

Career Goal upon Graduation:

Pursue a career as an appellate attorney or serve as a judicial clerk for an appellate judge.

What has been your most meaningful experience thus far?

One of my most meaningful experiences thus far was sitting on a panel at my previous school as a first-semester 1L alongside the Associate Dean for Inclusive Excellence and Enrollment Management, Jermaine Cruz; the Associate Director of Admissions, Katrina Alleyne; and Chris Gebhardt, my former pre-law advisor. Speaking about my journey and Albany Law so early in my legal education affirmed my decision to attend and strengthened my confidence in my place here. It also highlighted the impact of honest, personal conversations and motivated me to continue engaging with and supporting prospective students considering law school.

What insight can you give prospective students about Albany Law?

Being so close to the New York State Capitol means students can dive into government and legal work, volunteer, and get real-world experience—while also joining the local community and having a great time outside of class.

Why did you choose Albany Law?

The faculty and students made it clear that there is an authentic commitment to supporting each person’s success—not just in law school, but in whatever path their career takes.
 

Career Goal upon Graduation:

Upon graduation my goal is to pass the Bar and then start my career as a prosecutor, helping victims as part of a Special Victims Unit. My goal in a career has always been to have the ability to help those that cannot help themselves, especially vulnerable populations such as children.

What has been your most meaningful experience thus far?

My most meaningful experience here at Albany Law has been participating in the Domestic Violence Prosecution Hybrid (DVPH) Clinic with Professor Lynch. This clinic reinforced my desire to pursue a career prosecuting crimes as part of a Special Victims Unit and better prepared me for such a career. 

What insight can you give prospective students about Albany Law?

My number one insight would be: come prepared and try your best but also give yourself grace. Law school is a challenging journey, and it is normal to struggle. Everyone has their own strengths and weaknesses. Many of the most worthwhile things in life come as a challenge, remember why you are here and use that to persevere.

Why did you choose Albany Law?

I chose Albany Law for several reasons: First, I was familiar with the area and had grown to appreciate it, due to my time in undergrad at University at Albany. I also chose it because of its rich history and the opportunities it presents being in New York's capital region. Finally, I chose Albany Law because of its strong commitment to public service, which is the sector I want to work in following graduation.
 

Career Goal upon Graduation:

I would like to start my career at a public defender's office at a local, state, or federal level. I am also interested in labor and employment law, and my dream job in law is to eventually be the general counsel for the players' association of a professional sports league. The opportunity to represent organized labor in arbitration and contract negotiations in any capacity is very appealing to me. Down the road, I could also see myself entering the environmental law field or even returning to academia to teach. 

What has been your most meaningful experience thus far?

Thus far, my most meaningful experience has been the opportunity to write case briefs for the New York Environmental Law Journal under the guidance of Professor Hirowkawa. I attended the general interest meeting in the Fall, and he let us know about this rare opportunity for 1Ls. Typically, students have to wait until their 2L year to have the chance to write for one of the school's journals, but this is an earlier option to get into real and impactful cases and work with faculty to develop legal writing skills. I amso impressed with how personable and down-to-earth Professor Hirokawa is, and this is exemplary of what can be expected from any of the faculty here at Albany Law School. 

What insight can you give prospective students about Albany Law?

I have only been a student here for less than six months, but so far, I have learned that the more open to constructive feedback, the better their experience will be. What this looks like in practice is seeking out professors and TAs for help in class, or just to chat about how things are going generally. There are so many resources available to us here at Albany Law School; all one has to do is reach out and ask for help. It may sound somewhat cliché, but the truth of the matter is that it does take a village, and no one gets through law school alone. Lean on your support network in good times and challenging times. And always be willing to be wrong and see things from another perspective. 

Why did you choose Albany Law?

I chose Albany Law because the school has a supportive and collaborative culture. The school has a tight-knit community, and everyone here seemed approachable from the beginning of my admissions process. There were also practical reasons for my choice. I was already living in the area, and the financials of the decision made sense. Beyond the logistics and culture, every current student and alumnus I asked about Albany Law School spoke highly of the curriculum, faculty, and career support. At the end of the day, these are the aspects that tend to matter most to prospective students, and these were all unequivocally positive. 
 

Career Goal upon Graduation:

I would like to work in a law firm with the ability to work on many cases of varying topics. 

What has been your most meaningful experience thus far?

Meeting amazing people and making great friends at Albany Law.

What insight can you give prospective students about Albany Law?

School can be challenging but it is important to take care of yourself and make time for yourself to enjoy the little things. 

Why did you choose Albany Law?

I chose Albany Law because I am from the area and I was excited to take part in all the career opportunities Albany has to offer.
 

Career Goal upon Graduation:

Although I am not entirely sure what area of law I would like to practice as of right now, my end goal is to secure a job that allows me to help others and feel fulfilled at the end of my day. As a 1L, I am very new to the law school experience, but I am looking forward to taking advantage of the many opportunities available to us as Albany Law students, such as spending time in one of our clinics and doing pro bono work for my first year elective class.

What has been your most meaningful experience thus far?

During orientation week, I volunteered with some of my peers at In Our Own Voices Inc. and it was the best way to end orientation week. We got to chat with one another about our lives outside of law school while working together to help the Albany Community. We laughed, we learned more about each other, but most importantly, we experienced all of this while helping others. Some of the people I volunteered with are now some of my closest friends.

What insight can you give prospective students about Albany Law?

The next three years are going to be some of the hardest years of your life, so do yourself a favor and choose a law school that feels like home. There are a lot of important things to consider when deciding where to go to law school, but my best advice is, if you have that "this is my place" gut feeling, listen. Your experience in law school is all about what you make of it, so choose a school where you can see yourself growing. The professors, faculty, and students will quickly become your family at this school, so if you are someone who benefits from the support of a warm and welcoming community, Albany Law is your school. Whether it be TA making time to meet with you for 10 minutes between their classes, or a faculty member giving you a blanket when you are cold, every person on this campus genuinely wants to help you succeed. Albany Law is unique in that the school sits in our capital district. There are countless internship opportunities available to Albany Law students, and in your later years, job opportunities. The school has a very well-known moot court program with many different competitions that take place throughout the year. The judges of these competitions are all lawyers- sometimes even judges- who work in the Albany area and they are eager to connect students with opportunities. One of my professors told my class that the two finalists in one of the moot court competitions last year were offered jobs on the spot by the judge of their competition, who works as a judge in Albany. These esteemed members of the Albany Legal Community are frequently on campus judging competitions and attending events.

Why did you choose Albany Law?

Before becoming a student here, I attended several events, each of which left me feeling like I found my home away from home. No other school came close to Albany when measuring the things that meant the most in my decision. I traveled hundreds of miles doing my due diligence, but no matter where I visited, my heart always brought me back to Albany; you simply cannot fake the genuine sense of community that flows through these halls. No matter how tired I am, I leave this campus every day knowing that I made the right choice. Albany Law school is my home away from home.

Career Goal upon Graduation:

My career goal after graduation is to pass the bar and work at a family law firm where I can make a positive impact on individuals and families during important and often challenging times in their lives.

What has been your most meaningful experience thus far?

The most meaningful experience so far was joining the community service opportunity that was offered during my orientation. During the community service, I was able to see a different perspective on communities located in Albany New York. I believe it is important as law students, to join in these community service opportunities because it gives students the chance to make an impact on the community.

What insight can you give prospective students about Albany Law?

Albany Law offers many different opportunities for future law students. One being their alumni network. Albany Law has a strong alumni network which can be beneficial for career opportunity’s and for networking. Albany Law also has smaller class sizes which can lead to more personalized attention from professors. Additionally, Albany Law offers extracurricular activities such as moot court, law review, student bar association, and clubs. Having a large amount of extra-circulars gives students different opportunities that could potentially align with their interests.

Why did you choose Albany Law?

I chose Albany Law because of the sense of community I experienced from the faculty and students. Feeling wanted and supported even before making my seat deposit made me feel that Albany Law was the right choice. Having a supportive and inclusive community during your legal education, can profoundly impact your overall experience, academic success, and future career opportunities. Albany Law's commitment to fostering a supportive environment was shown before coming to the law school and now even more as a law student here.