By Eric Schillinger, Assistant Federal Public Defender
As part of this year’s Law Day events across the Northern District of New York, I had the privilege of joining U.S. District Judge Mae A. D’Agostino, U.S. Magistrate Judge Paul Evangelista, and attorney Mara Afzali in speaking with tenth grade honors English students at Guilderland High School on May 1, 2025. This outreach event offered a unique opportunity to introduce students to the federal court system and to share our personal paths into the legal profession. The 2025 Law Day theme, “E Pluribus Unum – From Many, One,” provided a timely framework for discussing how the legal community is strengthened by its diversity of experience and perspective. This was just one of many Law Day (or Law Month) events across the district that brought judges and attorneys to school classrooms, and students into federal courthouses.
Judge D’Agostino led the discussion, emphasizing the importance of civility, both in court and in society at large. She spoke about how respectful discourse and adherence to the rule of law are essential to a functioning democracy. Judge D’Agostino and Judge Evangelista also discussed their own journeys to the federal bench, including the roles they held prior to joining the bench, and the judicial nomination and confirmation process.
Mara Afzali, an attorney at Bond Schoeneck & King PLLC and a Captain in the United States Army (Reserves) Judge Advocate General (JAG) Corps, offered students insight into the dual role of serving as both a civilian and military attorney. She spoke about the challenges and rewards of balancing two legal careers, both grounded in service.
Each of us shared what drew us to the law, reflecting on the mentors, experiences, and motivations that shaped our careers. Despite our different backgrounds, we found common ground in a shared commitment to justice, fairness, and public service. These stories helped bring the Law Day theme to life, illustrating how people from all walks of life can find purpose in the legal profession.
We also spoke about the Bill of Rights and its relevance today. I had the opportunity to share my work as an Assistant Federal Public Defender and explained to the students that these are not distant, historical ideas – they are active, guiding principles that shape real lives and legal outcomes in courtrooms every day.
The students were engaged and thoughtful, asking questions about judicial responsibilities, courtroom procedures, and legal ethics. Their enthusiasm was a powerful reminder of the importance of civic education and outreach.
Law Day is more than a celebration – it’s a chance to connect, inform, and inspire. Thank you to Judge D’Agostino, Judge Evangelista, Ms. Afzali, and the FCBA for supporting this event and hopefully inspiring a few students to consider a future career in the law.