Major: Criminology
Double Minor: Law and Political Science
Mentors: Elizabeth Broccoli and Maria Vidal
Programs: ACE, Pre-Law Institute (PLI), Urban Male Initiative (UMI), Student Council
Internships: Nassau County District Attorney, Housing Conservation Coordinators Inc., Kings County District Attorney’s Office
Hometown: Long Island, NY
Career Aspiration: Criminal Defense Attorney
What was life like before John Jay?
I grew up on Long Island in a close-knit Indian household. I come from a really supportive family. While my parents have high expectations for my sister and me, they always encouraged us to pursue our dreams. My sister became a nurse and I hope to be the first lawyer in the family.
Why John Jay?
I wanted to attend a college where I could strengthen my voice, study law, and not get into debt. I learned that John Jay provides excellent financial aid, connects students to resources that set them up for success, and deeply supports its students who want to attend law school. Coming to John Jay is the best academic decision I’ve ever made.
When did your passion for law begin?
I’ve always been driven to correct injustices and speak up for the voiceless, but my passion deepened during the pandemic. As I sat at home and watched the news, it became really clear how there are so many inequities in our systems—from healthcare to government. I noticed how Black and brown communities were the most negatively impacted by these disparities. I wanted to be part of the movement that would change these systems.
How have your mentors put you on a path to success?
Maria Vidal, or Ms. V, from UMI and Elizabeth Broccoli from PLI sit down with me regularly. They push me to go for more and they motivate me to reach my full potential. Ms. V has been like a compass. She always points me in the right direction and helps me remain focused. Before John Jay, I struggled with speaking up and finding my voice. She’s directed me to the right people and programs that strengthened my weaknesses and fortified my passion for the law.
Ms. Broccoli has found unique opportunities for me to participate in, including speaking during Law Day and suggesting programs, like the Pre-Law Scholars, where I could gain knowledge and earn certificates. Her goal is to make sure I network with people already working in the legal profession. She also helped me with my resume and personal statements, ensuring that I put my best foot forward when applying for new internship opportunities.
How have ACE and PLI furthered your career aspirations?
Both programs have been instrumental to my success. ACE made college affordable, allowing me to travel to and from school without financial burden. PLI has given me incredible opportunities to access the resources I need to get into law school and network with people in the field—from free LSAT prep to panel discussions with practicing attorneys.
Through ACE, I secured an internship with Housing Conservation Coordinators Inc. This nonprofit organization provides free legal services to thousands of individuals and families in New York so that they can remain in affordable housing. And, via PLI, I landed an internship at the Nassau County District Attorney’s office.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
I see myself earning my juris doctorate and practicing criminal law. I hope to work on justice reform and diversify the law field because representation does matter. I’d also love to mentor the next generation of students at John Jay.
