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The Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University is pleased to announce that Amelia Wilson has joined its faculty as a tenure-track Assistant Professor of Law and Director of the Immigration Justice Clinic (“IJC”). In her role as Director of the IJC, Professor Wilson will also assume clinical teaching responsibilities. The IJC is part of John Jay Legal Services, Inc., a not-for-profit legal services firm that houses and runs the clinic and externship programs at Haub Law. Previously, Professor Wilson was an Assistant Clinical Professor in the Immigrants’ Rights/International Human Rights Clinic at Seton Hall School of Law.

"The Elisabeth Haub School of Law has a preeminent reputation for its clinical offerings,” said Professor Wilson. “I’m very excited to become the new Director of the Immigration Justice Clinic, which is making a direct and positive impact in providing free representation for immigrants and helping students gain experience towards a career in immigration law. I look forward to bringing my research interests and passion for immigrants’ rights and international human rights to Haub Law and learning from the faculty and students at the law school as well.”

Prior to joining Seton Hall School of Law, Professor Wilson served for four years as Supervising Attorney, Research Scholar and Lecturer-in-Law at Columbia Law School where she co-taught the Immigrants’ Rights Clinic. Professor Wilson has been practicing in the area of immigration law since 2005 and has represented hundreds of individuals as they navigate our detention and deportation system. She specializes in representing noncitizens with mental health disabilities, and her research and scholarship focus on safeguarding the due process rights of this particularly vulnerable population. In addition to teaching, writing, and engaging in direct legal services, Professor Wilson helped the Department of Justice build the first (and to date, only) government-funded appointed counsel system for any immigrant group. Professor Wilson received her JD from the University of Minnesota Law School and her BA from the University of Iowa.

“The Immigration Justice Clinic is one of our flagship clinical programs at Haub Law and I am thrilled that Professor Wilson, who has an extensive background in immigration law, is joining our law school community,” said Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University Dean Horace E. Anderson Jr. “Her practical experience along with her scholarship in the area of immigrants’ rights will guide our students as they assist clients in the Immigration Justice Clinic and as they learn in the classroom.”

The Immigration Justice Clinic was founded by Professor Vanessa Merton in 2004 and began serving clients in the spring of 2005. For 20 years, through her retirement and passing in 2024, Professor Merton served as the Director of and taught in the IJC, which provides free legal services to noncitizens who otherwise could not afford legal assistance. These services include representing clients in their applications for asylum or family-based status, in removal proceedings at state and federal detention facilities, and on petitions for crime victims and juvenile immigrants. IJC Student Attorneys litigate in the Immigration Court, the Board of Immigration Appeals, and the federal courts. They also conduct community “Know Your Rights” programs, engage in legislative advocacy, and have spent several spring breaks volunteering at immigrant detention centers on the southern border. The IJC and Professor Merton have successfully prepared hundreds of students for careers in immigration law, private firms, independent law offices, nonprofit agencies, and prestigious post-graduate fellowships.

Preeti Birajdar

Class of 2025

Currently Studying: MBA in Business Analytics

Current Internship: Business Analyst Intern, World Salon

Pronouns: She/Her

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Lubin graduate student Preeti Birajdar '25 is gaining mentorship and professional development opportunities from her summer internship, motivating her to pursue higher-level positions and specialize in field of business analytics.

How has the Lubin School of Business helped you prepare for your current internship?

The Lubin School of Business has provided me with a strong theoretical foundation through its rigorous academic curriculum, covering essential areas like finance, tech and marketing. My ability to solve problems and think critically has improved thanks to real-world experiences via case studies. My communication and leadership skills have also improved as a result of the school's emphasis on professional development. This has equipped me well for my current internship.

What attracted you to this internship?

I was attracted to this internship because of its strong reputation for providing hands-on experience in my field of interest, the opportunity to work with and learn from industry professionals, and its alignment with my career goals.

Describe what a typical day looks like as an intern at your organization?

As an intern at my organization, a typical day begins with a morning meeting where the team gets together to talk about the objectives for the day and assigns tasks. I work with colleagues as needed to complete my tasks throughout the day. We have a progress meeting at noon to make sure everything is moving forward as planned and to discuss any issues. An end-of-day meeting is held to review and turn in the day's work, make sure we have accomplished our goals, and get ready for the next day.

What has been the highlight or most enjoyable aspect of your internship so far?

The highlight of my internship, so far, has been the opportunity to work on a high-impact project that directly contributes to the company's strategic goals. Collaborating with a talented team, learning from experienced mentors, and seeing my contributions make a real difference has been incredibly rewarding and enjoyable.

How has this experience shaped or impacted your career goals?

This experience has had a significant impact on my career goals by providing a better understanding of my strengths and interests within the industry. It has validated my interest in data analysis and technology while also providing me with valuable insights into the practical applications of my academic knowledge. Furthermore, the mentorship and professional development opportunities have motivated me to pursue higher-level positions and specialize in this field.

How will this experience impact your next semester at Lubin?

I'll be able to contribute more effectively to class discussions, apply real-world examples to academic projects, and approach my studies with a more focused and informed perspective.

Remember that finding a meaningful internship requires time and effort, so be proactive and persistent in your quest.

Do you have any advice for other Lubin students who would like to pursue an internship in the future?

I advise beginning the application process at least six months in advance. For every application, personalize your cover letter and resume by highlighting your relevant experience and education. Use the career services resources offered by Pace, go to networking gatherings, and ask peers and instructors for help. Above all, remember that finding a meaningful internship requires time and effort, so be proactive and persistent in your quest.

Connect with Preeti:

• Connect with Preeti Birajdar on LinkedIn
• Follow Preeti Birajdar on Instagram

The Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University joined leadership from White Plains Hospital to recognize 12 hospital employees as graduates of the Law School’s inaugural Health Law and Policy Certificate for health professionals. This marks the first collaboration between the law school and a hospital to deliver on-site, customized legal training designed for physicians, nurses, administrators and other health care employees.

The Law School has long offered a robust education in health law and policy for both lawyers and students enrolled in its JD program, but partnered with White Plains Hospital to adapt its Health Law and Policy certificate program for practicing health care professionals who require some legal knowledge to adapt to changes in the industry. The certificate program, like Haub Law’s successful Flex JD program, exemplifies the Law School’s commitment to expanding access to advanced legal education for working professionals in the region.

“Health care professionals need to have a strong understanding of the ever-evolving legal, regulatory, and economic context in which they operate,” said Horace E. Anderson Jr., Dean of the Elisabeth Haub School of Law. “This partnership with White Plains Hospital is part of our commitment to provide innovative educational initiatives for our community. We are thrilled to see the positive impact this program has had on the inaugural class, enhancing their ability to meet professional challenges in their various roles at the hospital."

The 12-week Certificate Program, tailored to the specific needs of White Plains Hospital's staff, provided a framework of principles in health law and policy. Delivered by expert Haub Law faculty, the program covered topics ranging from legal issues involving Medicare, elder and end-of-life care to public health, bioethics, compliance, malpractice, contracts and social media. During the course, students engaged in a research project in their area of interest, which they presented to the class. The assignment provided a broader perspective based on their unique role at the hospital and created opportunities for cross-functional collaboration and dialogue.

“Participants had a wide range of job functions, in various departments within the organization. The diversity of disciplines brought together helped enhance the student’s understanding and application of the subject matter,” said Adjunct Professor Karen Gallinari who was one of the course instructors.

The Health Law and Policy Certificate Program was organized in collaboration with White Plains Hospital’s Human Resources Department, which demonstrates an ongoing commitment to training and education of its employees through a series of continuing education programs. During a ceremony at the hospital attended by Diane Woolley, Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resource Officer, and Dean Akbar, Assistant VP, Human Resources and Organizational Development, Haub Law’s Associate Dean Jill Gross presented certificates to the 12 health care professionals enrolled in the program.

“Our hospital is committed to investing in our employees, and this program is a prime example of that commitment,” said Dean Akbar. “The knowledge and skills gained from this program can be directly applied to the work each participant does here at the hospital, enhancing our overall ability to deliver exceptional patient care."

Hospitals and healthcare organizations interested in collaborating with the Elisabeth Haub School of Law to deliver its Health Law and Policy Certificate Program to staff should contact Vice Dean Jill Gross at jgross@law.pace.edu.

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This summer, Evan Smith '27, communication and media studies, is a digital media intern for a boutique, where he helps manage the brand’s social media account. Smith started rating Instagram profiles as part of a trend, but now brings in thousands of dollars a month with his reviews and a partnership with Adobe Lightroom. “I want to turn this into something long-term,” Smith said, acknowledging how fame and money can recede for influencers after a few years. Read more about Smith's business ventures.