Written By: Austin La
Erika Simonson’s journey from Associate Notes Editor of Syracuse’s Law Review to working at one of the most established securities law firms in New York City is both astonishing and informative. Since graduating from Syracuse College of Law in 2019, Erika has utilized the skills she polished during her time in Syracuse and while working on the Law Review to establish herself as an Associate at Schulte Roth & Zabel.
Erika began her studies at Texas Christian University from 2012-2015, where she majored in political science and minored in communication and social work. It was during this time that the tragic death of Trayvon Martin occurred and the monumental Supreme Court decision guaranteeing marriage equality, Obergefell v. Hodges was rendered, events that sparked Erika’s interest in the study of law. She became more interested in the legal profession and the direct impact of the lawyers on the legal process during times of tragedy and times of triumph. This interest ultimately led to Erika’s decision to pursue a career in law to have an impact on individuals’ lives.
Erika’s decision to attend Syracuse College of Law after Texas Christian University was a change she sought. In addition to the weather being much colder in Syracuse than Texas, Erika knew she wanted to work in New York City, and that Syracuse Law had a strong network in that area. Although she knew she wanted to practice law, she was unsure exactly what field she wanted to participate in. However, during an oral advocacy competition sponsored by Hancock Estabrook, LLP, Erika found her passion. This event solidified her confidence with public speaking and gave her the realization that litigation was the field of law she wanted to practice in.
During her time at Syracuse Law, Erika held the position of Associate Editor before becoming an Associate Notes Editor her 3L year. Additionally, Erika participated on the appellate advocacy team and was a member of the student government, eventually serving as the president of the Syracuse Law Student Bar Association. Erika emphasizes how her roles in these organizations have helped hone her skills in paying attention to detail, prioritizing tasks, and problem solving.
Erika noted that Syracuse Law Review has given her pertinent skills that she applies daily. She notes that using the Blue Book has helped her tremendously in writing briefs and motions by polishing her skills with citations. These strengths have allowed her to seamlessly transition into her legal career by making her both analytically and detail oriented. Erika emphasized that while the Note may feel long, it has been instrumental in her legal career. The Note has not only helped Erika sharpen her skills when conducting legal research, but it has also assisted her in drafting extensive motions and briefs.
Erika started her legal career as a Summer Intern for State Street at their London location during her 1L year as part of Syracuse Law’s LondonEx program. It was during this time that she first got to experience the field of securities law. This experience, in combination with her participation in the Hancock competition, helped her realize she wanted to pursue a career in securities litigation.
As a first generation lawyer, when Erika finished her 1L summer internship, she was initially unaware of the big law firm hiring cycle. Luckily, she learned of Schulte Roth & Zabel LLP and their specialty in securities litigation from mentors she had as a 1L, who were more senior members of the Law Review. The position piqued her interest given Schulte’s specialty and their robust pro bono practice. After interviewing with Schulte, Erika found the firm culture, the individuals, and the community at the firm were a perfect fit. Today, Erika still finds herself at the firm in an environment she loves. Erika has secured major wins in both her complex commercial and securities litigation practice and her pro bono practice.
Erika has had a journey filled with success, and her advice to current members of Syracuse College of Law for success is to make the most out of the connections Syracuse has to offer. She emphasizes that the alumni network at Syracuse is more than willing to help current law students if they reach out to them. Additionally, it is important for students to make the most of their relationships with other members of Law Review and the students in their class. These classmates may in the future be co-workers, opposing counsel, or even a client, and it is important to keep connections with others and reach out to alumni when seeking help. Erika has found the alumni from Syracuse College of Law specifically will go out of their way to help others from the Syracuse community.
From Texas Christian University to her current position as an Associate at Schulte Roth & Zabel LLP, Erika Simonson has had success in her career through her hard work and dedication. Simonson has taken her experiences from law school, the Note, and her time working in the legal field to develop a cohesive way to analyze and discern issues. Today, Erika remains a connected member of the Syracuse body of alumni, often being a contact for students looking to practice in her field or seeking insight on her journey to New York City.