Students interested in pursuing a legal career gathered in the McGann Conference Center on March 11 during common hour for a law school info session hosted by the Law & Justice Society. Leading the event was Long Island attorney and St. Joseph’s University, New York alumnus Sam Bifulco ’16.
Bifulco took students through his journey that led him from SJNY’s Long Island campus to becoming an associate at Sahn Ward Braff Coschignano PLLC in Hauppauge, NY.
Despite initially wanting to go into law enforcement, Bifulco shifted to a career in government, working for the town of Brookhaven for more than 10 years before pursuing his law degree as a part-time student.
He offered students advice on taking the LSAT (law school admissions test), choosing the right law school and eventually passing the bar exam.
Attorney and SJNY alumnus Sam Bifulco ’16 advised would-be law students on what to expect when pursuing their degree. (Photo by Rebecca Zultko ’27)
“Vet law schools that are important to you,” he advised students. Bifulco said the location, the prestige of a school’s name and application deadlines were factors students should consider while researching schools.
When it came to the realities of obtaining a legal degree, Bifulco was candid. He admitted to moments of self-doubt, but assured students that by leaning on their friends, family and other support systems, they could persevere through difficult times and achieve success.
“Law school challenges you to think differently, to think outside the box,” he told them.
Another important topic was the price of a legal education. With potential costs ranging from $150,000 to $200,000, Bifulco stressed the importance of scholarships, and not being afraid to ask the financial aid office at law schools if there is more money available.
Bifulco also presented his strategy for passing the bar exam. His tips included diligent studying, eating healthy, exercising and getting a good night’s sleep.
After telling his story, Bifulco opened the floor for questions.
When one student questioned whether it was better to go straight to law school or wait, Bifulco said students should do whatever works best for their situation. He also outlined the pros and cons of enrolling full-time or part-time.
Bifulco also spoke on the importance of networking for the students interested in law.
“Networking is about putting yourself out there and leaving uncertainty behind,” he said.
In addition to his legal work, Bifulco is also the president of the Long Island Alumni Board at St. Joseph’s University, New York.
Bifulco ’15 and members of SJNY’s Law & Justice Society. (Photo by Rebecca Zultko ’27)
