2017 Fellow Alum

Reema, currently in her second year at Harvard Law School, brings a wealth of expertise and enthusiasm to the law field. Hailing from Brooklyn, NY, she proudly graduated from Baruch College in 2020 with a B.B.A. in Finance.

With a vision to create a profound sense of belonging within her community, Reema is committed to making a positive impact not only in New York City but on a national scale. Leveraging her legal acumen and passion for entrepreneurship, she actively participates in the Transactional Law Clinics at Harvard Law and contributes to the Harvard Law Entrepreneurship Project.

These dynamic experiences have not only honed Reema’s skills but have also earned her a coveted spot on the Supreme Judicial Court Pro Bono Honor Roll. Reema’s journey showcases her dedication to fostering inclusivity and making a meaningful difference.

“I joined ANY as a fellow in 2017 during my sophomore year at Baruch. As a first-generation student, I was excited about the opportunity to build community with other first-gen students and gain a mentor in the law field. I have always been interested in pursuing a legal degree and was hoping to connect with a mentor to learn from their law school experience.”

“My greatest takeaway from ANY was confidence. As a first-generation student, navigating the intricate landscapes of the professional world can often become a daunting endeavor, with imposter syndrome lurking at every corner.”

The fellowship program serves as a guiding light for first-generation students, offering mentorship, practical experiences, and exposure to real-world situations, demystifying various aspects of the professional field. For Reema, the ANY fellowship program was more than just an educational opportunity; it was a transformative journey that reshaped her perspective, boosted her self-assurance, and equipped her with the unwavering confidence needed to navigate the intricate landscape of the professional world.

“I valued the Saturday workshops and the opportunity they posed to meet students from other schools across the city. The unique uncertainties that often accompany the journey of being the first in one’s family to pursue higher education can be both isolating and overwhelming. During these workshops, we were able to harness the collective strength of a first-generation community and celebrate each other’s successes.”

Reema’s experience with her Mentor Coach, Ramya, was incredibly enlightening. The mentorship provided a valuable space for open communication, where Reema could seek advice, share challenges, and receive constructive feedback. Ramya’s wealth of experience and insights into the law field provided Reema with a broader perspective, helping her navigate the complexities of her academic and career path.

“I am immensely grateful for Ramya’s guidance and friendship. She continues to be an amazing friend and ally in the law field. As I begin to embark on my legal career, she remains a great mentor and I continue to learn from her as she advances on her own career in law. “

“The mentorship that ANY provided was invaluable to me. I have continued to participate in other mentorship programs after ANY and hope to come back to the ANY family after law school to guide other first-generation students interested in a legal career. “

Support ambitious students like Reema and help us build a more equitable future by making a tax-deductible donation to America Needs You.