Isabella D'Alesio '24: Italian Classical Ballerina Pursues a Career on the Legal Stage

Fluent in three languages and trained as a classical ballerina, Isabella D'Alesio moved from Italy to New York to complete her bachelor's degree. After spending some time as a paralegal at a large international law firm, her decision to pursue a career in law was solidified. Now a 1L at Haub Law, Isabella hopes to begin a legal career in the international/environmental law field. Learn more about Isabella, her path to law school, and her experience at Haub Law in this student spotlight.

Tell us a bit about your background.

I was born and raised in Livorno, a city by the coast of Tuscany. I moved to New York for my Bachelor's degree at Fordham five years ago, where I pursued a degree in International Political Economy and a minor degree in Business Administration and French. All my family still lives in Italy, except for my brother and me – my brother also lives in New York. I am the first person in my family to go to Law School and the first woman to pursue a higher education. Both my father, Antonio, and my mother, Stefania, live in Livorno. We are all extremely close and always work together as a team. My family is extremely supportive of my choice to go to Law School – even though it is tough for us to be apart, they support my goals and believe in my aspirations. I would not be where I am today without them.

What inspired you to attend law school?

Since I can remember I have always had a passion for the practice of law, my main inspiration has been the work of international organizations. I have always had a burning interest in the work of the United Nations and its diplomatic relations between different countries, political systems, laws and cultures.

How did you make sure that you wanted to pursue a career in law?

To understand if law was something I was passionate about, after my bachelor ’s degree, I worked for a year at an International Law Firm in New York as a paralegal. I quickly understood that law was the path I wanted to take, and here I am! Due to Student Visa regulations, I am not allowed to work for the first two semesters of Law School, but I am eager and excited to start applying the material I am learning in the legal field.

What about Haub Law stands out to you?

There is such a high level of inclusion and camaraderie at the school that all students and faculty have with each other. Since the first days, I felt extremely comfortable and at ease, something that is rare for a law student, especially in their first year.

There is such a high level of inclusion and camaraderie at the school that all students and faculty have with each other. Since the first days, I felt extremely comfortable and at ease, something that is rare for a law student, especially in their first year.

Talk to me about your professors so far at Haub Law.

I have had a wonderful experience with my first semester professors. They expect a lot from us as law students, and although it can be demanding and stressful, it is extremely rewarding. The professor that has been the most inspiring figure for me in this first semester is my Civil Procedure professor, Michael Mushlin. His passion for the course and his dedication to his students has been remarkable. Civil Procedure is not by any means an easy class, but his enthusiasm has inspired me to dedicate myself to the law even further.

Have you thought about your goals after law school?

I hope to pursue a legal career in the International/Environmental field. I am fortunate enough to be able to speak Italian, English, and French. My dream is to work for an international organization or law firm and be able to use my legal experience together with my fluency in languages.

What are some of your hobbies outside of law school?

Growing up I spent all of my free time in the dance world, I was a classical ballerina for 17 years and continued classical and modern dance through College. Dancing, playing the piano and my love for music is still one of my favorite things to dedicate my free time to. When we don’t have too much law reading for class, which is very rare, I enjoy reading books from Isabel Allende. I also adore cooking and baking.

What would your advice be for current or future law students?

Believe in yourself. It is not going to be easy, but never doubt that you have the ability to make your dreams come true. It is not a bad thing to set high goals and standards for yourself, but remember to celebrate and be proud of every accomplishment, even if small.