Meet Salma Mohamed, a scholar in Seton Hall Law's Diverse Attorney Pipeline Program (DAPP) and a LEO Fellow. In this interview, Salma shares her experience as a 1L Summer Associate at Faegre Drinker Biddle & Reath, her passion for legal writing, and insights into overcoming challenges on her path to success.
Tell us about your experience participating in the Pre-Legal Summer Program at Seton Hall University School of Law as a college freshman. Did attending this program make you want to attend this law school?
The Pre-Legal Summer Program solidified my decision to pursue a career in the legal profession. The program provided an immersive academic experience that helped me develop my legal reading and writing skills. Additionally, I had the opportunity to connect with Pre-Legal alumni who offered valuable insights from their professional and academic experiences. Pre-Legal set me up for success and provided me with knowledge I did not have as a first-generation college student.
You are currently a scholar in the Diverse Attorney Pipeline Program (DAPP). Can you tell us about this program and your experience in it? What are the benefits of participating?
The Diverse Attorney Pipeline Program (DAPP) aims to address the ongoing underrepresentation of women of color in the legal profession by offering professional development, academic support, and mentorship. The program includes study sessions led by professors and feedback on practice problem answers. Additionally, I had the opportunity to build valuable connections with my fellow DAPP Scholars, who are law students across the country. My experience as a DAPP Scholar was incredibly rewarding, and I am grateful for the program’s support.
What does it mean to you to be a LEO Fellow?
Being a LEO Fellow means thriving in the face of adversity. The LEO program has provided invaluable support and played a crucial role in helping me navigate my first year of law school. Professor Perez-Vellios, the LEO Program Director, has done an exceptional job leading the LEO Summer Institute Program, which helped me understand the best approaches to law school. Having a strong support system means everything, and the LEO Fellows have become my law school family. I am proud to be a LEO Fellow and excited to serve as a Research Assistant for the program this year.
What challenges have you faced in law school or leading up to law school, and how did you overcome them?
Imposter syndrome is a common challenge that everyone faces, including myself. During 1L year, those fears tend to be heightened. However, it is important to trust yourself and lean into the process. When I feel fear or uncertainty, I find it helpful to remind myself that preparation and hard work pay off.
Tell us about your experience as a Summer Associate with Faegre Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP during your 1L summer. How did you hear about this internship? What was the application process like? What assignments did you work on? What advice would you give to students seeking this position?
My time as a 1L Summer Associate with Faegre Drinker Biddle & Reath was everything I could have hoped for. I had the opportunity to explore a variety of legal areas, including Real Estate, Labor & Employment, and Business Litigation. I also worked on a pro bono case involving an asylum application. Additionally, Faegre Drinker hosted a summit in Denver, where I met other Summer Associates from across the country.
I found out about this amazing opportunity through an email sent by Maria F. Capra. During the fall of my 1L year, I saved any emails from Maria that contained opportunities I was interested in, and I applied during my winter break.
For students seeking similar positions, I recommend applying early for firm and in-house opportunities as a 1L. Also, preparation is key when it comes to interviews!
You are also returning to this firm for your 2L summer. What made you decide to go back?
I decided to return to Faegre Drinker Biddle & Reath because I believe the firm truly implements its core values and prioritizes talent development for incoming associates. The attorneys at Faegre Drinker possess exceptional skills and knowledge, which provided me with valuable learning experiences. Their summer associate work allocation system is a great way to explore different practice areas. The firm also offers incredible resources for summer associates. I am extremely excited to be returning next summer!
What are you looking forward to most as an Associate Editor on the Seton Hall Law Review for the 2024-2025 year?
I am excited to begin the process of comment writing, especially since I have selected a topic that I am extremely interested in. I am also eager to learn about the editing process that Law Review undertakes with its publications.
What law school courses are you looking forward to taking during your 2L and 3L years?
I am looking forward to taking Labor & Employment Law and Family Law. I also plan on participating in a clinic during my 3L year, as I have heard it is a rewarding experience.
What study tips would you give a 1L student?
I would advise students to outline throughout the semester and complete a variety of practice problems. I also recommend utilizing office hours for questions. Lastly, students should take advantage of school resources, such as academic success programs and study aids provided by the library.
What are your post-graduation goals?
I have not yet decided on the practice area I would like to pursue, but I hope to have a clear direction by graduation!
