Build Confidence, Build Careers

Student Spotlight

Emily Raia, 2L 

Emily Raia (2L) discovered her passion for litigation after transitioning from an accounting background to the courtroom. This past summer, she interned with U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael Hammer, and next summer she will join Riker Danzig LLP. A dedicated athlete and soccer referee, Emily brings discipline, precision, and competitive spirit to her legal journey.

What inspired you to pursue litigation, and how did your accounting background influence that decision?

I was inspired to pursue litigation after my experience participating in the 2025 Riccio Competition. I originally believed I would pursue transactional work after my experience in the accounting field. Through my tax internships, I became proficient in working with Excel spreadsheets and preparing tax returns. However, I found I thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to defend my client. It was satisfying to present my crafted argument in front of a panel of judges and adapt to their questions throughout my allotted time. The thrill of presenting my argument in each step of the competition ultimately led to my decision to pursue litigation.

The LEO Corner

Alexa Firth, 2L

Alexa Firth (2L) spent her summer interning with The Honorable Jose R. Almonte, U.S. Magistrate Judge, where she gained firsthand experience in federal judicial proceedings. As a Research Assistant for Seton Hall Law’s Legal Education Opportunity (LEO) Program, Alexa continues to give back to the community that inspired her legal journey.

What’s one defining experience from your early life or education that influenced your decision to pursue law?

A defining experience from my early life that influenced my decision to pursue law was when my family went through a difficult situation where we needed a lawyer. Watching how the attorney impacted my family and our situation really spoke to me. I saw firsthand the impact a lawyer can have on people’s lives when they’re at their most vulnerable. That experience inspired me to pursue a career in law so that I could one day impact others the same way that attorney impacted my family.

Weekend Warriors

Jonique A. Crawford , 2LW

Meet Jonique A. Crawford (2LW) — A dedicated paralegal at Wilson Elser in Madison, NJ, Jonique is combining her MPA, litigation experience, and passion for public service as she pursues her JD. This fall, she has been externing with The Honorable David Dugan in the Essex County Superior Court, Family Division.

What motivated you to pursue your JD after earning your MPA and building a successful paralegal career?

I’ve always known I wanted to be an attorney. My MPA gave me a solid foundation in public service and policy, but working as a paralegal made it clear that I wanted to be the one drafting the arguments and advocating on behalf of clients. Law school was the next step to get there.

Janine M. LeChien, 2L

Janine M. LeChien (2L) spent her summer as a research assistant for Professor Timothy Glynn and an in-house legal intern at Quest Diagnostics. A former real estate paralegal, Janine balances her studies with running an embroidery business and volunteering remotely with Meals on Wheels, where she founded a birthday card program.

How has your internship with Quest Diagnostics shaped your perspective on in-house legal work?

My internship with Quest Diagnostics really reshaped how I think about in-house legal work. What surprised me most was how collaborative the attorneys were across practice areas. On a daily basis, I saw various attorneys walk across the office and problem-solve together. I saw an employment law attorney get up and walk across the office to ask a contracts attorney a question; M&A working closely with contracts; and compliance teaming up with litigation to address risks. Everyone leaned on one another’s expertise to make sure the company was covering all its bases. It wasn’t something I expected going in, but it created a truly welcoming and supportive environment—one that showed me how impactful and rewarding in-house work can be.

Yamina Attab, 2L

Yamina Attab (2L) completed The Sonia and Celina Sotomayor Judicial Internship Program this past summer, deepening her passion for law and public service. A proud graduate of the prestigious Macaulay Honors College at Queens College, Yamina also runs an antique and vintage business with her mother, blending entrepreneurship with a lifelong love of learning.

How has participating in The Sonia and Celina Sotomayor Judicial Internship Program influenced your legal perspective?

The Sonia and Celina Sotomayor Judicial Internship Program reminded me that I have a voice in the law as a future lawyer. It gave me invaluable insight into the judicial process and allowed me to see the law in practice, beyond the classroom. One of the most unforgettable moments was hearing Justice Sotomayor speak about her background and journey—it was incredibly inspiring and reminded me that everyone starts somewhere, and that perseverance can take you far.

After a networking bootcamp hosted by the Office of Career Services, Seton Hall law students connected with local bar associations, gaining insights into legal careers and membership benefits. The event provided a valuable opportunity for students to expand their networks and engage with the legal community.

An evening to remember! Seton Hall law students and recent graduates enjoyed connecting with alumni practicing in diverse legal fields over cocktails. This networking event provided a unique chance to learn about career paths and gain insights into different areas of law.

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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