Wendy Xia (3L) combines her pharmacy background with a passion for health law and intellectual property. She interned at Fox Rothschild LLP during her 1L summer and at Kirkland & Ellis LLP (NY office) during her 2L summer, gaining hands-on experience that bridges healthcare and law while preparing for a dynamic legal career.
Can you share a bit about your background and the path that led you to law school?
I began my journey at the Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, where I first discovered my passion for pharmacy law. After taking a pharmacy law course, I asked my professor—who was both a pharmacist and an attorney—if I could shadow him to better understand his day-to-day work. That experience eventually led to an internship in his office during one of my pharmacy rotations. I spent my final year of pharmacy school working there while preparing for the LSAT, which ultimately set me on the path to law school.
What drew you to health law and intellectual property, and how do you see your pharmacy background influencing your legal career?
My interest in health law grew naturally from my pharmacy background. Healthcare has always been deeply personal to me, as my immediate family did not complete high school, and we looked up to healthcare professionals as people who could create real change in our communities. During my time in pharmacy and hospital settings, I noticed how laws and regulations directly shaped patient care and clinical decision-making. That realization inspired me to bring my knowledge of pharmacy into the legal field, bridging both worlds to better serve patients, providers, and organizations.
This summer you interned at Kirkland & Ellis — what was the most valuable takeaway from that experience?
My time at Kirkland & Ellis reaffirmed my passion for healthcare law. Working with the Healthcare Transactions team, I was struck by how essential it is to stay current on emerging healthcare regulations and industry trends. The attorneys were incredibly knowledgeable, collaborative, and committed to excellence. Observing how they combined technical expertise with strategic thinking was inspiring and taught me the importance of specialization in a fast-changing field.
Reflecting on your time at Fox Rothschild, what did you learn that continues to shape your approach to law?
At Fox Rothschild, I worked on drafting summary judgments and motions to dismiss, which taught me the value of conciseness and clarity in legal writing. Collaborating with strong legal writers sharpened my ability to communicate complex issues effectively and persuasively. This is a skill that continues to influence my approach to advocacy and client work.
You’ve held leadership positions in several student organizations — what have you enjoyed most about those roles?
I’ve enjoyed mentoring other students and helping foster strong, supportive communities within Seton Hall Law. Being in leadership positions allows me to bring students with similar interests together, creating networks that often extend into shared classes and professional opportunities. It’s rewarding to contribute to organizations that will continue to thrive and positively impact future students.
What has been your most memorable moment so far at Seton Hall Law?
One of my proudest moments was participating in a Constitutional Law moot court competition, where my partner and I earned the Best Brief Award. Writing and refining our arguments was challenging but deeply rewarding. Supporting my team and contributing to our success taught me a lot about perseverance, collaboration, and the power of thorough preparation.
Who has been a mentor or major influence during your legal education, and what advice or example did they share that stuck with you?
Two of my earliest mentors were Jinny Lim and Megan Weitekamp, who were accomplished 3Ls when I began law school. They guided me through everything, from outlining for exams to preparing for interviews and navigating summer associate recruiting. What inspired me most was how they balanced leadership roles, academic excellence, and personal growth. Their example motivated me to aim higher, and I strive to pay that mentorship forward to other students.
Outside of academics and internships, what hobbies or interests help you recharge?
I’m an avid pickleball player and runner. In fact, the night before exams, you’re likely to find me on the court playing a quick match to relieve stress. Staying active helps me manage pressure, sleep better, and approach challenges with a clear and confident mindset.
What’s one fun fact about you that might surprise your classmates or professors?
I run a monthly cookbook club where friends and I test new recipes, share stories, and connect over food. It’s a creative outlet that allows me to explore my love of cooking and community outside of law school.
Looking ahead, what are your goals after graduation, and how do you hope to make an impact in your field?
After graduation, I will be joining Kirkland & Ellis as an associate on the Healthcare Transactions team. Long-term, my goal is to combine my pharmacy background with my legal training to guide healthcare organizations through complex regulatory and transactional challenges. I’m also passionate about supporting nonprofit healthcare entities through pro bono work, with the hope of making healthcare more accessible and impactful for the communities that need it most.
