Seton Hall Law students enter their programs with diverse backgrounds, bringing unique
educational foundations, work experience, and personal accomplishments to the classroom.
This diversity creates an engaging learning environment and fosters a dynamic professional
network that extends well beyond campus. Earlier this month, that network came together
at the Nasdaq MarketSite for a special live panel discussion on cybersecurity and
data protection trends, challenges, and innovations.
Jill Malandrino, a current Master of Legal Studies (MLS) student and the creator and host of Nasdaq TradeTalks, led the discussion. TradeTalks broadcasts live from Nasdaq MarketSite and other locations worldwide, featuring insightful conversations with thought leaders across industries. The March 5, 2025 episode (https://www.nasdaq.com/videos/legal-landscape-data-privacy-and-cybersecurity) welcomed Seton Hall Law alumni Adetola Popoola, Esq., Data Privacy Counsel at Apple Bank; Jonathan Samon, Esq., Chief Privacy Officer at Apple Bank; and Benjamin Pearl, MLS, CPA, Seton Hall Law School Alumni. Together, they explored the evolving legal landscape of data privacy and cybersecurity, addressing key issues such as regulatory changes, compliance challenges, emerging threats, risk management strategies, and vendor oversight.
While the panelists' subject matter expertise was impressive, the career advice they shared was equally valuable. In the final minutes of the discussion, they emphasized the advantages of a legal education—whether a JD or MLS in compliance—in building a versatile skill set. The panelists agreed that blending this knowledge with prior work experience and undergraduate education creates a powerful foundation for career growth.
The panelists shared their own career journeys to illustrate this point. Benjamin Pearl reflected on his path, stating, “I think pivoting is key. I started as a CPA at Big Four. I never thought I’d get into technology, enterprise resource planning, and now privacy and cyber. But having that business acumen, then building skills through the MLS, allowed me to pivot and be industry agnostic.” Ms. Malandrino echoed this sentiment, adding, “I started off in institutional equity trading. Here I am now a reporter. It’s important to evolve with the skill sets you gain along the way.”
Jonathan Samon highlighted the growing number of opportunities available to students today. “I navigated my way to the privacy and cybersecurity space later in my career,” he said. “Now, in today’s curriculum at Seton Hall, there are so many more courses and programs available. I definitely would take more of those if I could do it all over again.”
Gregory Gamble, Associate Director of Career Services at Seton Hall Law School, accompanied students to the panel and emphasized the importance of real-world exposure. “The intersection of law, business, and compliance is evolving rapidly. Opportunities like the one Jill organized today really allow current and prospective students to see how the material they learn in class is applied in real-world situations.” Mr. Gamble looks forward to expanding opportunities for Seton Hall Law students to learn from successful alumni and draw from their experiences and insight.
To borrow the words of Ms. Malandrino, “My fellow Pirates, I appreciate the insight.”
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