On July 16, ten rising 2Ls from FIU Law traveled to Washington, D.C. for a one-day Summer Fly-In, joined by Interim Dean Michelle D. Mason. The visit gave students the opportunity to explore legal careers in public service and private practice while connecting with alumni and national leaders.
The day began with a warm welcome at FIU in DC from Michelle Castro, Director of Student Experience and Impact, and Carlos Becerra, Associate Vice President for Governmental Relations.
Students then visited the U.S. Department of Justice, where they received an inside look at the agency’s mission, structure, and the role of attorneys in federal law enforcement and policy hosted by Senior Adviser and fellow Floridian Christopher DeLorenz.
Back at FIU in DC, the group met with retired Judge Heather O’Brien, Managing Director of the U.S. Supreme Court Fellows Program. Judge O’Brien shared reflections from her time on the bench and discussed pathways into the highly competitive fellowship program.
The afternoon continued at Troutman Pepper Locke LLP, where Associate Charlene Goldfield hosted the group and spoke about her work in information law, cybersecurity, and national security-related compliance, including advising clients on foreign investments, sanctions, and export controls.
Students returned to FIU in DC for a private session with the Honorable Jacqueline Becerra, U.S. District Judge for the Southern District of Florida. Judge Becerra shared insights from her career in public service and the judiciary, emphasizing mentorship, preparation, and purpose in the legal profession.
The day concluded with Law, Legacy & Leadership, a moderated conversation with Judge Becerra led by rising 2L Nick Calero. The evening event offered students a chance to engage more deeply with Judge Becerra’s journey, ask questions, and reflect on the kind of leaders they aspire to become.
Washington D.C. Fly-In – Summer 2025 Participating Students (all rising second-year law students): Pierrelena Amazan, Stacey Bazile, Gabriella Bravo, Jasmine Felix, Hunter Giel, Amily Haro, Ethan Marquis, Joshua Ottoniel Ynirio, Mariana Tamayo, Stephany Tejera