Anthony DeFazio
Hometown: Baldwinsville, NY
Undergraduate Institution: SUNY Geneseo
Legal Interest: Corporate and Entertainment Law
ajdefazi@syr.edu
I chose Syracuse Law because I was impressed with its state-of-the-art learning environment. From the moment you walk into Dineen Hall, you are immersed in a warm, comforting setting that fits all study styles. The law library is a great place for students like me who prefer minimal noise and distractions while they work. However, there are times when I just need to unwind after a long lecture and the atrium provides couches and comfy chairs for my friends and me to lounge and socialize for a bit between classes. I also appreciated the conveniences that Dineen Hall provides. Personally, I like to use my locker to store my many, sometimes heavy, books and charge my laptop while I run to the café to grab a bite to eat in between classes. Additionally, the professor’s offices are right outside the classrooms and students are encouraged to take full advantage of their office hours to ask questions about the material or just say hi! Dineen Hall also offers a wide variety of academic resources from the Academic Success Fellows to one-on-one mentors who are always looking to help 1Ls through their tumultuous first year. Transitioning to law school can be difficult and it was very refreshing to have all my academic resources within walking distance of my classes. Overall, I was looking for a law school that could provide me with a welcoming environment and helpful resources to ensure my success both in classes and as a future attorney. Syracuse gives students those opportunities and more!
Jayda Howard
Hometown: Houston. TX
Undergraduate Institution: Howard University
Legal Interest: Public Interest Law
jhowar19@syr.edu
I chose Syracuse University College of Law because of the prestigious dual-degree programs. Additionally, with my interest in public policy and advocacy, I wanted to attend the same law school as our President, Joe Biden, L’68, and especially after attending Howard University in likeness with Vice President Kamala Harris, to set myself up for success in my career endeavors.
Lela Lanier
Hometown: Baltimore, MD
Undergraduate Institution: Towson University
Legal Interested: Disability Law
ljlanier@syr.edu
I chose Syracuse University College of Law because of the institution’s commitment to accessibility and the opportunity to study disability law. I was drawn to the sense of community and inclusion produced by the students, faculty, and staff. The College of Law also provides opportunities and resources to students covering a wide range of interests, from student journals to the Cold Case Justice Initiative. Furthermore, law students have access to resources on Syracuse’s main campus, which makes me feel like an even bigger part of the Orange family!
Ryleigh Peterson
Hometown: Skaneateles, NY
Undergraduate Institution: Hunter College
Legal Interest: Corporate law
rpeter08@syr.edu
My name is Ryleigh Peterson and I’m a 1L at the College of Law. I am from Skaneateles, New York and graduated from Hunter College in 2020 with a degree in media and communications. Before law school, I worked at two law firms: the first in New York City as a bankruptcy and credit paralegal, and the second in Syracuse as a corporate paralegal. I am interested in corporate law but am excited to see what other interests I will have while at Syracuse Law! I chose Syracuse Law not only for its excellent legal education, but also for the comradery, sense of community, and vast connections our alumni have throughout the country. Let’s Go Orange!