Student Ambassadors

Gracie Westerfield
Career Goal upon Graduation:
When I was accepted to Albany Law, I had blinders on to pursue family law with my background in domestic violence advocacy. Now that I have experienced the groundwork of my 1L year, I am interested in many facets of law including business-related courses. I am thrilled to have the opportunity to take a multitude of classes to help expand my interests in internships and professional opportunities moving forward.
What has been your most meaningful experience thus far?
Getting involved on campus has been the most beneficial learning experience for me to discover the talents of my peers in a mock trial competition and be a part of the process as a witness. I have been able to work closely with my roommates during my 1L and peer mentor to gather different approaches toward one common goal-success. Because I built these strong relationships with involved individuals, my experience in and out of the classroom is more personable and inspiring.
What insight can you give prospective students about Albany Law?
Do not second-guess yourself. Enter each classroom with a mindset of confidence and curiosity. Aim to get 1% better each day by applying yourself and utilizing your resources such as office hours, meetings with teacher's assistants, networking with professionals, and checking in on classmates. The professors want to see you strive for success and will encourage you to prepare, participate, and prosper.
Why did you choose Albany Law?
Albany Law is known for its intimate academic setting with many ways to get involved in the community. I was attracted to the smaller class size of the spring start program and got to know each of the students in my section. I appreciated the broad range of classes that I would be able to take and the guidance that was provided to me every step of the way. From orientation to networking opportunities, I am reassured that I belong in this welcoming community and that there are avenues for me to make a mark.

Patricia Whelan
Career Goal upon Graduation:
Upon graduating from Albany Law, I understand that there will be many different avenues available for me. I hope to use my skills, relevant experience, and knowledge to successfully practice law in today’s fast-paced, ever-changing society.
What has been your most meaningful experience thus far?
Thus far, my J.D. experience at Albany Law has been nothing short of amazing! It is truly the perfect fit for me. I really enjoy being able to meet and connect with other members of the student body by participating in numerous student organizations, such as the Student Bar Association, Albany Law Review, and Phi Alpha Delta. I also really enjoy working with the law school’s faculty experts, staff members, and mentors because they are very insightful and help me grow in new ways by providing me with helpful guidance and support. Lastly, I am grateful to have the opportunity to connect with the legal and local communities by participating in a broad range of internships, field placements, clinics, and other opportunities because they can provide an insider’s view into how the law operates in various practical settings.
What insight can you give prospective students about Albany Law?
I would advise prospective students that they should start to make connections now and take advantage of all the amazing opportunities that Albany Law has to offer. I would remind them that it’s okay to be unsure of what they want to do because they will discover their skills and interests as they progress through law school. I would also encourage them to keep an open mind and step outside of their comfort zone. In the words of Roy T. Bennett: “Believe in yourself. You are braver than you think, more talented than you know, and capable of more than you imagine.”
Why did you choose Albany Law?
I chose to attend Albany Law because of its collaborative environment, personal mentorship, and powerful academic support. I also chose Albany Law because I really enjoyed the local feel of the school and I felt like it was a smart financial decision for me. I said yes to Albany Law because I knew that it would help me achieve my personal and professional goals by bridging my ambition for the future with a great legal education.

Tai White
Career Goal upon Graduation:
Upon graduation I hope to create more learning opportunities for students who wish to further their studies. I believe that law professors have the ability to positively impact the lives of their students. I want to be able to assist, inspire, and educate others.
What has been your most meaningful experience thus far?
I finished my first semester of my first year this past spring and I knew what was expected from me as a law student however the first month and a half was challenging. My most meaningful experience was pushing myself to understand completely new material and taking advantage of office hours hosted by my professors and my teacher assistants. Their positivity and constructive criticism allowed me to have more confidence in myself to overcome the difficulties I dealt with while managing an entirely new course load.
What insight can you give prospective students about Albany Law?
The first year is challenging and you may often find yourself buried in school work but always reserve time for yourself. Remember that if you do not take a break or rest, your body will do it for you. Managing your time while prioritizing your mental health is very important. Although law school is very demanding, you are capable and you are going to meet amazing professors, teacher assistants, and other students who will give you whatever push or advice you may need.
Why did you choose Albany Law?
Albany Law was my first choice, I felt as if the programs provided to students prepared them for the legal field that they wished to enter. I am aware that studying law and practicing law are very different, however I believe Albany Law gives students the proper insight and experience they need to succeed.