Seton Hall Students Making a National Impact
“Organizations advancing diversity in the legal community, such as the Hispanic National Bar Association and the National Black Law Students Association, nurture our students’ success,” said Dean Kathleen M. Boozang. “They enable students to develop lifelong friendships and wide professional networks with practicing attorneys. And knowing both Aly and Anthony, it won’t be a one-way street – they’ll both bring something special to their new roles.”
As an active member of both the HNBA and its affiliate, the Hispanic Bar Association of New Jersey, Liriano has encouraged classmates to take advantage of the opportunities and resources these organizations offer, including mentorship programs, resume and interview workshops, networking events and career fairs. She was also the recipient of a scholarship from the HBA-NJ and was honored at the organization’s gala in June 2016.
Liriano plans to extend her reach to fellow Latino law students in her new role. “During my term as President, I hope to help Latino students across the nation, speak out on issues affecting Latinos in the United States, and shine a light on the many ways students can best employ their talents to make an impact in our communities,” Liriano said.
Liriano believes active participation in organizations like the HNBA opens doors to career success. “While grades are undeniably an important factor, they are not the be-all end-all of the law school experience,” she said. “Networking is essential in this profession. The personal connection students have with a judge or an attorney at a professional social event, volunteer day, or panel, is what will set them apart at an interview.”
Osei shares Liriano’s dedication as he takes on his new role in the Black Law Students Association. “As Regional Director of the Pre Law Division, my primary responsibility will be to ensure that pre-law students have the tools necessary to make their law school dreams a success,” he said. “From LSAT prep, to first-year success and beyond, our pre-law students will gain access to invaluable networking opportunities and exceptional mentorship. NBLSA is striving to continue building pipelines for the future, and I am honored to be a part of their efforts.”
NBLSA is the largest law student-run organization in America with approximately 200 chapters at every law school nationwide. NBLSA’s mission is to increase the number of culturally responsible Black and minority attorneys who excel academically, succeed professionally, making a positive, lasting impact on the community. Seton Hall Law’s BLSA chapter is particularly active, and in Spring 2016, was recognized as one of the Northeast region’s leading chapters.
“NBLSA has played a critical role in my academic and professional development throughout my time at Seton Hall Law,” said Osei. “As a member, I have had the unique opportunity to network with law students from all over the country. I have been invited to Baltimore, Houston, Boston and many other cities to participate in leadership and academic retreats. My national membership has also allowed me to attend multiple job fairs and compete in a national mock trial competition against some of the most talented student advocates in the Northeast Region. The opportunities have been endless.”
Ultimately, being part of such organizations is about creating opportunity for students. “I always say this to any student who will listen: with the HBA-NJ and the HNBA, you get the experience you ask for,” Liriano concluded, “In my case, I’ve gotten that and more. I have been extremely fortunate to work alongside attorneys who have a genuine desire to help and are invested in students’ growth. Today, I am a better professional and, even more important, a better person, because of them.”