Rising 3L Tackles Administrative Law and More As Summer Law Clerk
Rising third-year student Tamara Menashy ’20 spent her summer at Grunfeld, Desiderio, Lebowitz, Silverman and Klestadt LLP, an international trade law firm. Menashy has experience in the real estate industry serving as a paralegal for the Law Office of Gerald Klein before enrolling at LMU Loyola Law School.
Q: How did you land your summer job?
A: I was originally made aware of the open position by Assistant Dean for Employer Engagement Graham Sherr. When I decided to apply, my career counselor, Jill Myers, helped me with my cover letter, resume and interview preparation. All that, along with an upbeat attitude and a good writing sample, helped me land the position!
Q: What is the most interesting part of your job?
A: The most interesting part of my job is the area of law I am working in! International trade law is political and cutting-edge, especially now with the current administration’s Section 301 China tariffs. I had the opportunity to work on projects in a variety of industries and deal with both compliance and litigation issues. My research has ranged from administrative law to cannabis imports.
Q: What has been your most challenging assignment?
A: Drafting a memorandum regarding the court’s standard of review for a federal agency’s decision was pretty challenging. Although the memo drew on general legal research and writing, it was in an area of law I was unfamiliar with. The issue also included wrinkles with unclear case law. I am still fine-tuning it!
Q: What new legal skill have you acquired during your summer job?
A: I have learned how different goods are classified under the tariff and how duties are assessed. The tiniest details are so important when it comes to audits and legal research. These skills are very valuable to companies engaged in international trade that are seeking legal advice.
Q: What bit of legal knowledge have you been able to display?
A: I think I have been able to display an ability to synthesize vast amounts of information and make it clear and understandable to people unfamiliar with the subject matter. Also, my research and writing skills have been extremely helpful.
Q: How has Loyola helped you map your career path?
A: Loyola has set me up for success. First, Loyola Law School’s reputation is a reflection of its faculty and staff’s efforts. All of the lawyers I have met expressed how impressed they are by the way the law school genuinely cares about its students. To that end, the Career Development Office has assisted me multiple times – tweaking my cover letter and resume and being proactive in sharing opportunities with me. Loyola Law School also has a great network of alumni and professors who serve as great resources for guidance, advice and potential career opportunities.