As president of the Black Law Student Association (BLSA) at Fordham Law, Raissa Ebeh ’25 has been active in leading the organization’s programing this year. This includes BLSA’s upcoming Alumni Trailblazer Celebration, a celebration of Fordham BLSA alumni “who have made tremendous contributions to the legal community and paved the way for future black lawyers,” said Ebeh. She hopes to pursue tax law after graduation and will be working as a summer associate at Andersen Tax Services starting this May.
What is your hometown?
I was born and raised in the city of Yaoundé in Cameroon and emigrated to the United States eight years ago. Lynn, Massachusetts is my hometown in the U.S. I am the first of seven children and I really love being a big sister because I get to be a mentor to my siblings.
Where did you study before Fordham Law?
I studied psychology and political science at The City College of New York.
Why did you choose Fordham Law?
I choose Fordham Law because in addition to being a very reputable school, it has a vibrant and active student body. I had the opportunity to meet several students who attended the Law School before I chose Fordham and I really admired how committed and involved they were in their student organizations and competition teams.
What do you like about studying law in New York City?
I’ve lived in New York since 2017, and worked as an EMT here during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. My favorite part of living here is the endless amount of career, social, and other opportunities. I was recently invited to watch the King Charles program hosted by Gayle King and Charles Barkley live at CNN’s Studio. I don’t think I would have had that opportunity if I wasn’t in New York City.
What are you involved in at the Law School?
I am currently serving as the president of the Black Law Student Association. As president of BLSA, I have the opportunity to organize events and programs that benefit our students and alumni. I am particularly proud and excited about organizing our Alumni Trailblazer Celebration. During the event, we will acknowledge and celebrate Fordham BLSA alumni who have made tremendous contributions to the legal community and paved the way for future Black lawyers.
Recently, BLSA was also awarded the Regional Chapter of the Year in the large chapter category for the first time in 51 years [at the Northeast Black Law Student Association Regional Convention].
What is your favorite experience at Fordham Law?
Last year, I was a NYC Bar Diversity Fellow, which was a great experience. Another of my favorite experiences was running a half marathon with my best friends from my law school section. Every Sunday in the weeks leading up to the half marathon, we met at Central Park to train for the run—and on the day of the half marathon we wore matching outfits and supported each other across the finish line. It was a very beautiful experience and one that I will always remember.
What do you hope to do when you graduate?
I hope to practice international tax law when I graduate. I will be a summer associate at Andersen Tax Services this summer and I am looking forward to learning more about the tax law practice.
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