More than 100 rising second- and third-year Fordham Law students are completing summer associate programs, judicial internships, and fellowships throughout the country and around the world this summer. Through their experiences, they are forging new connections, honing their lawyering skills, and immersing themselves in the practice of law while pursuing their passions.
Through the 2024 New York City Bar Association Diversity Fellowship Program, Feyisara (Feyi) Idera ’26 is spending the summer working for TIAA, a private provider of financial retirement services in the academic, research, medical, cultural, and governmental fields.
“Heading into the summer, I was looking forward to creating meaningful connections with colleagues and learning more about the financial services industry from experienced attorneys,” said Idera.
What is your hometown?
Morris Plains, NJ.
Where did you study before Fordham Law?
I majored in psychology and minored in criminal justice at The George Washington University, where I received my B.A. Degree cum laude.
What are your areas of interest?
I am interested in transactional law.
What are you doing this summer?
I’m a legal summer associate at TIAA, working in its New York City office until early August.
What attracted you to this summer associate program?
What stood out about this opportunity for me was the unique chance to work at a company with extensive resources and diverse learning opportunities across its various departments.
What were you most excited about for this opportunity?
I am most excited about continuing to get to know my colleagues and learning from experienced attorneys.
What are you focused on at TIAA?
In this role, I have conducted research and written memoranda on Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) preemption of negligence claims in the 7th Circuit. I have also participated in mergers and acquisitions group meetings to discuss transactions and review negotiation strategies. Additionally, I have assisted with investment management deal work.
My favorite part of the experience has been applying the tools and knowledge from my first year of law school to real-world cases and situations. This hands-on application has deepened my understanding of the law and enhanced my problem-solving skills.
How do you think this summer experience will help you when you return to Fordham Law in the fall?
This experience will help me think about the law from a practical perspective, as I’ve had the opportunity to work with real clients and gain hands-on experience. It will also enrich my studies at Fordham Law and better prepare me for my legal career.
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