Build Confidence, Build Careers

Student Spotlight

Wagma Isaczai, 2L 

Wagma Isaczai (2L) brings a truly global perspective to her legal studies. Having lived in eight countries and traveled to 43, she draws on her background as the daughter of a UN diplomat and her work with the NYS Division of Human Rights to pursue a career in international law and human rights.

What inspired you to pursue both law and diplomacy, and how did those interests develop?

My inspiration for pursuing law and diplomacy comes directly from my upbringing as the daughter of a UN diplomat and my identity as an Afghan woman. Growing up in countries such as Syria, Yemen, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Nepal, Germany, Azerbaijan, and even North Korea, I saw how diplomacy and law directly affected people’s daily lives. I often felt like I was living in a safe bubble, shielded from the harms and human rights abuses others around me faced, which instilled in me a deep sense of responsibility to act.

When the Taliban returned to power in Afghanistan in 2021, I witnessed firsthand how quickly Afghan women’s rights—including access to education, work, and basic freedoms—were dismantled. That moment solidified my resolve to use law not just as a career, but as a tool to advocate for the rights of Afghan women. Initially, I thought a master’s in diplomacy and international relations would be part of my path. Over the last year, I realized that the law provides a concrete tool to bring accountability, enforce rights, and create meaningful change. That’s why I chose to focus on law and plan to pursue an LLM in Europe, so I can combine my global background with rigorous legal training to advocate for vulnerable populations in international courts.

Charlie Shapiro, 2L

Charlie Shapiro (2L) brings a deep commitment to labor and employment law shaped by hands-on experience and leadership. After interning with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and serving as Secretary of the Labor and Employment Law Forum, Charlie will spend his 2L summer at Thompson Coburn LLP, building on his advocacy-focused path.

What drew you to labor and employment law, and how has your role as Secretary of the Labor and Employment Law Forum influenced your law school experience?

I grew up in Baltimore, MD, a city I hold very dear to my heart. Season two of The Wire, which is set in Baltimore, is what first sparked my interest in organized labor. The story of the longshoremen’s union at the Baltimore docks showed both the pride and solidarity unions create, as well as the real challenges they face as industries change. It led me to explore the history of labor movements and the legal protections workers need.

As Secretary of the Labor and Employment Law Forum, I’ve been able to explore these issues in real life by working with practitioners, learning about current workplace challenges, and building a network of classmates who share my interest in protecting workers’ rights.

Isaac Shulman, 2L

Isaac Shulman (2L) brings a client-centered lens to public defense shaped by his summer at the Hamilton County Public Defender’s Office and pro bono work with Seton Hall’s Criminal Defense Clinic. After careers at Goldman Sachs and Sumitomo Mitsui, Isaac is committed to challenging systemic inequities through transformative, community-focused advocacy.

How did your summer internship with the Hamilton County Public Defender’s Office shape or reaffirm your career goals?

I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to have worked at the Hamilton County Public Defender’s Office. I saw the inner workings of the criminal punishment system up close, forged relationships with incredible public defenders and clients, began developing trial and advocacy skills, and built on my first-year research and writing foundation. Because Ohio’s rules of legal practice allow law students to practice as attorneys after completing their first year (OH ST GOVT BAR Rule 2), I was engaged in substantive, on-the-record work—including leading two misdemeanor trials (both acquittals!) and sitting second chair on a third. The work was both exhilarating and challenging, and I’m excited to continue learning and improving this semester at the New Jersey Office of the Public Defender in the Bergen County office. The experience also pushed me to think more critically about how public defender offices are structured and how they interact with the communities they serve, a topic I plan to explore further in a law review comment.

Karina Rosalez, 2L

Karina Rosalez (2L) brings a public-service-driven perspective to her legal studies. Originally from California, she spent last summer interning with the California Courts of Appeal, Fourth District, where she helped draft opinions and gained firsthand insight into appellate decision-making, judicial process, and the power of representation in the law.

How has being a LEO Fellow shaped your experience here at Seton Hall Law?

Becoming a LEO Fellow is one of the best decisions I have made; it has been above and beyond my expectations. The program is meant to prepare students like me, who have little to no knowledge about the ins and outs of becoming a lawyer. Being a LEO Fellow gave me a strong sense of community before my first day of classes. It created a sense of belonging and provided me with people I knew I could lean on when I needed help.

Matthew Whipple, 4LW

Matthew Whipple (4LW) brings a uniquely creative lens to the law. A former bassist, composer, and tour manager with training in interior design, Matthew interned at Carella, Byrne, Cecchi & Agnello, P.C. and competed in the Eugene Gressman Moot Court Competition. After graduation, he will clerk for the Honorable Maritza Berdote Byrne.

What inspired you to pursue a career in law after such a vibrant career in music and the arts?

My family is my biggest inspiration in this career path. My grandfathers were both federal judges, my mom was a judge in the state Superior Court, and my dad has been in private practice for many years. Whether I was eventually headed for law school is something people have been asking me since I was a small child. I have always been equal parts creative and analytical, and after over ten years as an entrepreneur and small business owner in creative fields, I was ready to pivot toward using my intellect and abilities in a different way.

On Wednesday, January 21, 2026, the Office of Career Services hosted its Annual Employer Preview in the Law School Atrium. From 5:30–7:00 p.m., students connected with attorneys and professionals from a variety of law firms and organizations in a dynamic, table-talk networking setting.

Dressed in business attire, students engaged in meaningful conversations, gained insight into legal career paths, and expanded their professional networks. We thank our participating employers—especially our 2026 Gold Level Sponsors—for their continued support and commitment to Seton Hall Law students.

Students are welcome to stop by the Career Services Boutique to get professional attire. All items are free, and they are welcome to take as many items as they like. Donations are also welcome. We accept gently worn or new suits, blouses, shirts, ties, etc. If you’re interested in organizing a clothing drive/donation event, please contact Ms. Blackwood at monique.blackwood@shu.edu 

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