What made you interested in law as a career?
Before deciding to attend law school, I was a residential real estate mortgage closer for a bank attorney on Long Island. Although I liked my job and was very good at it, I found there were certain aspects of it I could never perform without attorney supervision. This bothered me because, ability-wise, I knew I could do the work without someone watching over me. Eventually, I realized I could have that independence I wanted if I just became an attorney myself.
What is your favorite thing to do outside of work?
Being active and getting outdoors. I love swimming, hiking, playing golf, biking, and more.
What made you want to apply to Cullen and Dykman’s Summer Associate Program?
I first heard of the firm before I came to law school from the attorneys at the real estate firm I was working for. Many of those lawyers began their careers at Cullen and Dykman and were very grateful for the early career support the firm afforded them. Cullen and Dykman was the first firm I applied to and interviewed with upon beginning my 2L summer job search, and I was thrilled to accept Cullen and Dykman’s offer once I received it.
What have you enjoyed most about Cullen and Dykman’s program so far?
I’ve always been someone who learns by doing, so being able to work in so many different practice areas and try so many different types of legal research and writing is exciting for me.
What academic/professional achievement are you most proud of?
I have one of each: first, being promoted to mortgage closer before coming to law school, and second, being elected Executive Publications Editor of the American Bankruptcy Institute Law Review as a 2L at St. John’s Law.
Favorite Quote?
“No pressure, no diamonds.” – Thomas Carlyle
What advice do you have for prospective Summer Associates?
Don’t be afraid to speak up, be social, and ask for work. This is your opportunity to make connections and learn, so take advantage of it.