Leigh Pisane Cortez, an associate in Dechert’s global finance practice, attributes her career success to her legal education at St. John’s Law. As the first in her family to attend law school, Pisane Cortez found the supportive community and expansive alumni network of St. John’s particularly beneficial.

Reflecting on her decision to attend St. John’s, Pisane Cortez said, “I remember my dad being so excited and proud... On my tour of St. John’s, he said, ‘This is where you belong.’ Hearing him say that confirmed that St. John’s Law was the right place for me.”

She highlights the influence of fellow alum Natasha Aljalian, who encouraged her to join the St. John’s Law Review. “Natasha... called me over a holiday break to tell me that she didn’t receive my article and asked me to submit. She explained to me that being a member of Law Review could help catapult my career trajectory.”

The education at St. John’s equipped her with the skills necessary for her career. Pisane Cortez notes, “I can proudly say that I chose the right law school.” She attributes her ability to think quickly, voice her opinions, and stand out in her profession to her time at St. John’s Law.