Meet the JD class of 2028: Anya Syed
Anya Syed
CLASS OF 2028
Prior Education: Claremont McKenna College ’23 (Bachelor of Arts, International Relations and Economics)
Hometown: London and San Francisco
Prior Work Experience: Political Affairs Intern, United Nations; Student Manager of Economic Journalist Team, Lowe Institute of Political Economy
I have always been passionate about protecting human rights, particularly advocating for women’s rights. After graduating college, I undertook a UN internship focused on victims’ rights advocacy, which was pivotal in shaping my understanding of how legal aid can provide genuine recourse for survivors of sexual violence. I was deeply inspired by the resilience of survivors who, despite immense pain, still believed that the legal system could support them. That experience showed me how meaningful legal representation can be and also revealed the flaws in the system that must be addressed. I decided to pursue a law degree so that I could become a legal advocate dedicated to advancing respect, dignity, and justice.
Why did you choose Duke Law School?
I was drawn to Duke Law’s strong sense of community and its mission of collaboration. I believe the best learning happens in supportive, peer-to-peer environments, and I knew I would find that at Duke. I was also particularly interested in the JD/LLM in International and Comparative Law, which allows me to maintain a globally oriented focus in my studies. Having spent most of my childhood outside of the United States, I knew I wanted an international law–focused program, and Duke’s JD/LLM offered exactly that. It is also exciting to join an institution whose faculty publications I studied extensively during my education. I feel confident that Duke Law will allow me to pursue my passions with the full support of its faculty and community.
Are there student groups or other activities you’d like to get involved with?
I am especially excited to join the Coalition Against Gendered Violence and to begin pro bono work from the very start of my 1L year. I am also looking forward to becoming involved with Duke Law’s vast public interest community and the South Asian Law Students Association.
How do you plan to use your law degree after you graduate?
After law school, I hope to work in the public interest sector, providing legal aid and representation to survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. My immediate goal is to ensure that women who have endured gender-based violence can access justice and feel supported within the legal system. Long-term, I hope to build a career in international advocacy, representing women’s groups and advancing women’s rights in international courts. In particular, I hope to focus on protecting women’s rights during times of conflict and war, where systemic violence and displacement often heighten their vulnerability.
What do you do to relax outside of work or class?
Outside of the classroom, I love to read (though I know I may not have much time for it during 1L), run, play pickleball, and crochet. I also enjoy exploring new restaurants and coffee shops, and I am especially excited to discovering all of Durham’s amazing food, which I have heard great things about!
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