Cedric Starks, Jr. (JD '26)
"Consider applying if you want to walk into a readymade support system of previous fellows. Everyone is extremely supportive, and they help you feel integrated in the Pitt law community from the first day you arrive. I am excited to work with K&L Gates because they offer a variety of practice areas as a global firm, which provides an opportunity to become a well-rounded legal professional.”
Journey Matos (JD '25)
"I applied to the fellowship at Pitt because none of the other programs I considered offered an opportunity to work with a big law firm as a 1L law student. Very few firms of K&L Gates’s caliber give first year law students an associate position, and even fewer prioritize diversity. I am grateful for the network of supportive and experienced attorneys that this fellowship has provided me, and I look forward to another exciting and rewarding summer."
In the summer of 2023, Journey worked her first summer as an associate at K&L Gates. While she initially was interested in corporate law, she had such a great experience with the litigation attorneys in the office that she is now interested in complex commercial litigation as well. She looks forward to returning this summer and continuing to learn and grow. In the summer of 2023, Journey worked her first summer as an associate at K&L Gates. While she initially was interested in corporate law, she had such a great experience with the litigation attorneys in the office that she is now interested in complex commercial litigation as well. She looks forward to returning this summer and continuing to learn and grow.
Minu Nagashunmugam (JD '24)
"My experience with the Diversity Fellowship has changed my law school experience for the better – it has introduced me to incredible friends and mentors, and helped me start my legal career."
Minu applied for the Fellowship at K&L Gates because she is enthusiastic about the firm's strong focus on mentorship and the endless opportunities to tackle novel legal issues. K&L Gates is well known for its commitment to nurturing emerging legal talent, and she is excited about the prospect of learning from experienced professionals who will guide and support her growth in the legal field. The firm's diverse range of practice areas presents a wealth of unique and interesting legal challenges.
Gloria Chibueze-Azinge (JD '23)
“Those aspiring to the Fellowship should identify their strengths and their unique skillset. I would encourage a prospective applicant to be their authentic self!”
Gloria Chibueze-Azinge was interested in the Fellowship program since she began researching attending the Pitt Law. She was drawn to the tremendous opportunity to gain experience within a law firm, the mentorship program, and the significant financial support for Fellows. She is especially pleased with her mentor experience, paired with a lawyer who met with her twice a month. This mentor encouraged Chibueze-Azinge in both her studies and her overall wellness. While she is in the early stages of the Fellowship, she has already enjoyed the benefits of having a mentor during her first semester.
Alexandre LeBlanc (JD '22)
“The Fellowship experience is very challenging; however, it is more than rewarding, providing not only significant personal growth but also a head start in your legal career. “
Alex LeBlanc spent his 1L summer as a summer associate at K&L Gates. LeBlanc describes his summer employment experience as enriching for both work experience and networking opportunities. His mentors have become close friends throughout his time at K&L Gates. They have empowered him to expand his legal knowledge and diversify his interests within the field of law. LeBlanc recommends that others interested in the Fellowship communicate how their unique characteristics will make them a valuable asset for K&L Gates.
Nadia Brooks (JD '21)
“For anyone interested in the Fellowship, I’d recommend staying true to one’s self, honest, and open-minded because the firm will see your authenticity and work with you to accomplish your goals."
Nadia Brooks has completed both an in-person and virtual summer associate position with K&L Gates. Even in her first year, she felt a sense of belonging at the firm and explored several different areas of the law. Both the firm’s lawyers and past Fellowship recipients have offered support, answered questions, and mentored Brooks through her experience. She wants students pursuing the Fellowship to know that keeping an open mind is a great way to discover yourself, your passions, and both your short and long-term career goals.
Jessica Liu (JD '20)
“The K&L Gates Diversity Fellowship introduced me to future colleagues and mentors that have taught me so much about myself.”
Jessica Liu has worked with K&L Gates since completing her Fellowship in 2020. Liu believes her passion for helping others is what made her stand out to K&L Gates. She is one of two recipients who have completed their Fellowship, which she describes as an enriching experience. Liu met so many people she genuinely related to and was drawn to new practices in law she hadn’t before considered. Her advice for others pursuing the Diversity Fellowship is to be open to new experiences and opportunities.