Our Organization

 

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Established in the spring of 1995, the Asian Pacific American Law Students Association (APALSA) at St. John's University School of Law is focused on providing members with the necessary tools and resources for a fulfilling law school experience and a successful legal career.   We are committed to promoting the interests of our members through academic and career-oriented programs, networking opportunities, and social gatherings. 

 

We are also dedicated to developing and fostering relationships not only among ourselves, but with other student groups, the Administration and faculty members, alumni, and other members of the legal community as well.  We do this through several ways. We provide all first-year students with a second-year and a third-year mentor, someone they can turn to for advice on courses, professors, job opportunities, and the like.  We co-host events, such as finals exam preparation and networking workshops, with other affinity groups.  We host alumni panels, where St. John's APALSA alumni return to their alma mater and talk to current students about their career paths, work experience, and tips for success.  We plan trips to visit Asian-American judges, such as attending oral arguments at the Appellate Division, Second Department where Justice Randall Eng is the Presiding Justice and taking a tour of Judge Denny Chin's chambers and courtroom in the Second Circuit.  Finally, our biggest event of the school year is the Lunar New Year Dinner, where students have the opportunity to meet and network with attorney alumni during our celebration of the Asian culture, which includes traditional Chinese dishes, games, and raffle prizes.  In between all of these exciting legal events, we also enjoy getting to know one another.  Throughout the school year, we plan varous social events, such as bowling, ice skating, lunches/dinners, potlucks, and barbeques.   All in all, there are many opportunities for our members to thrive professionally in the legal field, academically in the classroom, and socially in the community.  

 

We embrace the individuality of every member and the diversity of our organization.  We cultivate a close-knit community of support and guidance.   We bring awareness to the legal and cultural issues affecting our community.  And we celebrate the varied accomplishments of Asian Americans throughout the legal field.  We hope that you will join us and become part of our rich history and promising future.