Woodside, NY – New York State Assembly Member Steven Raga hosted a Law School Info Day at his District Office in Woodside on Thursday, bringing together law school admissions professionals, attorneys, and aspiring law students for an afternoon focused on breaking down barriers to entering the legal profession.

Over 30 attendees participated in two panels organized by Assemblymember Raga’s office. The first focused on navigating the law school admissions process, while the second brought together attorneys and legal professionals to discuss career paths, public-interest law, and opportunities to use a legal education in service of their communities.

For students from working-class families and communities historically underrepresented in the legal profession, access to information and professional networks can play an important role in determining whether law school feels attainable. The event allowed aspiring law students to speak directly with admissions professionals and practicing attorneys about applying to law school, financing a legal education, building a career, and overcoming barriers to entering the profession

“I am proud to host our first-ever Law School Info Day. For too many young people from working-class and immigrant families, careers in law can feel out of reach—not because they lack the ability, but because they lack the same access to information, mentorship and professional networks,” said Assemblymember Raga. “I’m grateful to the admissions professionals, attorneys and legal practitioners who generously shared their expertise and perspectives. We want the next generation of lawyers from Western Queens not simply to enter the profession, but to understand the power they have to use the law to serve their communities, defend the marginalized, and advance justice.”

Participants included representatives from CUNY School of Labor and Urban Studies’ CSTEP Project LAW, NYU School of Law, St. John’s University School of Law, and CUNY School of Law, as well as Yurij Pawluk, Executive Deputy Commissioner for Supportive Programs and Initiatives in the Office of the Chief Program Officer, Human Resources Administration

“CUNY Law is proud to participate in this important conversation and help open pathways to the legal profession for aspiring lawyers,” said CUNY School of Law Interim Dean Natalie Gomez-Velez. “Preparing the next generation to use the law in service of the public good is at the heart of our mission.”

“Assemblymember Raga understands that investing in young people is investing in our future,” said attorney Shivana Jorawar. “I'm grateful for his commitment to connecting aspiring lawyers with diverse legal practitioners, which is something I did not have growing up. This is the kind of leadership we need to uplift the families of Western Queens.”

“It was an honor for CSTEP Project LAW to participate in the AD30 Law School Info Day,” said Urmi Rahman of CSTEP Project LAW. “We had the privilege of meeting many bright and engaged participants who are looking to delve deeper into the legal field. Eliminating barriers and opening the doors for students of all backgrounds is our priority, and we hope that we were able to play a meaningful role in their journey.”

The panels also explored opportunities for applicants from disadvantaged and historically overlooked communities, common do’s and don’ts of the admissions process, and ways lawyers can pursue careers that advance the public interest and give back to the communities that shaped them.

Born and raised in Queens, Steven Raga is a lifelong tenant, the son of Filipino immigrant workers, and a proud product of Western Queens. Elected in 2022, he is the first Filipino American to hold statewide office and the first person of color to serve the Assembly district. Before serving in the State Assembly, he worked as a community advocate and nonprofit leader, fighting for immigrant rights, language access, and for working families. In Albany, he has built a record of delivering investments in affordable housing, immigration legal services, food security, and other essential support for the diverse communities he represents.