Ferrell Littlejohn ’24 says the highlight of her Fordham Law experience was the time she spent as an active member—and eventually vice president—of Fordham’s Black Law Student Association (BLSA). After graduating in May, she’s excited to pursue a career in corporate law and will soon be starting as an associate at Holland and Knight LLP’s New York office.
What is your hometown?
Arlington, TX.
Where did you study before Fordham Law?
I obtained my bachelor’s degree in international business and marketing from the University of Oklahoma in 2014. Upon graduation, I was commissioned as an officer in the United States Marine Corps, where I spent five years as a finance officer. As a finance officer, I frequently provided guidance to leaders regarding both the potential legal and regulatory constraints on their expenditures, as well as the opportunities available within those parameters. This experience enabled me to develop a genuine understanding of and appreciation for the power and adaptability inherent within the law. From there, I was driven to enhance my understanding of the law, seeing it as a powerful tool for helping others and resolving issues I am passionate about. Thus, I set my sights on law school.
What are your areas of interest?
I am interested in transactional law, specifically mergers and acquisitions, corporate law, and private equity.
Why did you choose Fordham Law?
I chose Fordham Law because out of all the law schools I had interacted with, Fordham was the most warm and welcoming. I felt a genuine sense of community. One night, I attended a virtual panel in which students spoke about their experiences and answered questions. Not only were these student panelists warm and welcoming to the guests, but I could sense camaraderie among them. They seemed like family, laughing and joking together, and recalling memories. I knew I wanted to be a part of this family.
What was the best thing about studying law in New York City?
The best part of studying in New York City was the diversity of culture, people, and activities! There was never a dull moment.
What were you involved in at the Law School?
During my 2L year, I had the pleasure of serving as vice president of Fordham’s Black Law Student Association (BLSA), which was an incredible and rewarding experience. I first got involved with BLSA during my 1L year. I rarely missed a BLSA event, which helped me become a part of the community. Early on, I knew I wanted to give back to BLSA, so I became a 1L representative, which gave me an inside look at the work behind the organization and inspired my passion to lead within the organization.
What was your favorite moment at Fordham Law?
My favorite moments at Fordham were tied to my experience in BLSA—for example, winning National Chapter of the Year at the National Black Law Students Association’s 55th Annual Awards Gala in 2023 and celebrating BLSA’s 50th anniversary at the 2023 Ruth Whitehead Whaley Gala.
What are your career plans?
I will be working at Holland and Knight LLP’s New York Office as an associate in its corporate division. I don’t know what the future holds in the long-term, but my goal is to build a legacy and foundation for my family and all those who come after me.
What is one piece of advice you would give to incoming 1Ls?
Find your people and don’t be afraid to ask for help. It takes more than intellect to succeed in law school.
Did you have any important mentors during law school?
After I had a difficult experience in the 1L legal writing course, Professor Aysha Ames took me under her wing and pushed me to take on various challenges. Through her unofficial mentorship, I became a teaching assistant for the 1L Legal Writing course, which opened the door for other opportunities. As a 3L, I worked with her as a research assistant where I gained invaluable experience. In all, Professor Ames enhanced my law school experience beyond what I could have imagined.
I also want to acknowledge Senior Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Kamille Dean and Assistant Dean of Student Affairs and Diversity Kimathi Gordon-Somers for their incredible leadership in shaping the REAL Scholars Program, which gave me many of the tools and confidence I needed to enter law school during my 1L year. The REAL Scholars Program gave me a “head start” to law school. Prior to the start of 1L fall, I spent a week with REAL learning about the “in and outs” of law school. Among our activities, we had mock classes, professionalism panels, networking events, and community building exercises. This experience gave me the confidence I needed to tackle my 1L year because I had gained a toolbox of knowledge and resources which many students were not fortunate enough to have.
Follow @fordhamlawnyc to read more student stories in our #futurefordhamlawyers series.