Sophia Amello (2L), a 3+3 JD/BS student and recent Seton Hall graduate, combines academic excellence with practical experience. After her 1L summer at Faegre Drinker Biddle & Reath, she returns this year while serving as a Law Review Associate Editor, reflecting her commitment to growth, mentorship, and impactful legal advocacy.
What inspired you to pursue a legal career, and how did the 3+3 JD/BS program influence your decision to attend Seton Hall Law?
My decision to pursue law is rooted in a desire to advocate for vulnerable communities, especially children impacted by abuse and neglect. When I was in eighth grade, I had the opportunity to go on a field trip to the Division of Child Protection and Permanency. During this visit, I helped enhance the visitation rooms used by children and their parents. What I initially thought would be a simple volunteer activity resonated with me on a much deeper level. I began to understand the extent to which lawyers can change lives. I learned that the heart of the legal profession is the power to advocate for those in need—a cause I have been drawn to ever since.
The 3+3 JD/BS program influenced my decision to attend Seton Hall Law because it allowed me to pursue that goal within an academic community I already trusted. I was particularly drawn to Seton Hall Law for the opportunity to participate in the Family Law Clinic and gain practical experience aligned with my interest in child advocacy. The law school’s strong reputation and close-knit community further reinforced my decision to continue my education at Seton Hall.
Can you describe your 1L summer internship at Faegre Drinker Biddle & Reath and the types of projects you worked on?
During my 1L summer internship at Faegre Drinker Biddle & Reath, I worked on a variety of research and writing assignments across several practice areas, including business litigation, employment law, and real estate. My work included drafting memos, preparing discovery objections, and reviewing deposition transcripts in support of ongoing matters. I also had the opportunity to contribute to a pro bono case, which was the most meaningful project I worked on, as it allowed me to see firsthand how legal advocacy can impact an individual’s life. Overall, the internship strengthened the skills I developed as a 1L while providing valuable practical exposure.
What are you most looking forward to in returning to Faegre Drinker for your 2L summer?
I am especially excited to return to Faegre Drinker for my 2L summer because of the people at the firm. During my 1L summer, I felt genuinely supported and uplifted through strong mentorship and a collaborative environment, which made it a place where I truly enjoyed working. I look forward to continuing to learn and grow in that same environment.
How has your role as an Associate Editor on The Seton Hall Law Review influenced your research, writing, and editing skills?
My role as an Associate Editor on The Seton Hall Law Review has strengthened my research, writing, and editing skills by requiring close attention to detail and precision. This role has made me a more careful and intentional researcher and writer. Working closely with sources and citations has shown me how small details can affect the strength and credibility of an argument. The editing process has also helped me think more critically about structure and clarity in my own legal writing.
What challenges have you faced balancing law school, journal responsibilities, and internships, and what strategies have helped you manage them?
Balancing law school, journal responsibilities, and internships can be challenging at times, especially when it feels like there is not enough time in the day to get everything done. Staying organized, setting small and realistic daily goals, and maintaining discipline have helped me manage competing priorities. Remembering why I chose to come to law school and keeping my long-term goals in mind has also helped me stay motivated during busy periods.
How has your experience working in both legal practice and journal editing shaped your understanding of the legal profession?
My experience in legal practice has shown me how legal research and writing are actually used to support attorneys and clients, while journal editing has emphasized the importance of accuracy and credibility in legal work. Seeing both sides has helped me better understand the level of care and responsibility required in the profession.
Looking back, what has been one of your most rewarding accomplishments during law school so far?
One of my most rewarding accomplishments during law school has been pushing myself outside my comfort zone and taking on new challenges—from earning a spot on Law Review to participating in oral arguments—both of which once felt impossible to me. Those experiences forced me to trust my abilities, take risks, and grow in ways I did not expect when I first started law school.
How do you see your experiences during law school shaping your post-graduation goals or career trajectory?
My experiences during law school have helped me grow both personally and professionally, while also shaping the kind of lawyer I hope to become. Being challenged academically and pushed outside my comfort zone showed me early on the importance of seeking guidance and support along the way. As a first-generation law student, the mentors and relationships I have built have been essential to my success, and without that support, I would not have been able to accomplish the things I have so far. These experiences have shaped my post-graduation goals by motivating me to seek a career in an environment that values mentorship, collaboration, and the ability to support others in the same way that I’ve been supported throughout my journey.
What advice would you give to students interested in corporate law or combining law school with leadership and journal responsibilities?
I would tell students to stay organized and be honest with themselves about their time and energy. Taking on leadership and journal responsibilities is rewarding, but it requires discipline and the ability to prioritize. That said, it is absolutely doable! I used to think law school was impossible and that I would never be able to balance everything, but I learned it is important to ask for help and lean on the people around you. With the right support and mindset, you can accomplish things you once thought were out of reach. Most importantly, remembering why you came to law school in the first place helps keep everything in perspective.
