When the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted lives and careers worldwide, Albert Anaim, a member of the Class of 2026, found himself at a pivotal juncture. “The pandemic put me at a crossroads in my career,” he reflects. “I had to decide whether to continue on my then career path and specialize in my field or pivot into something different.” After deep self-reflection and guidance from mentors, Anaim chose to pursue a career in law, a field he believed would align with his strengths and aspirations.
Initially, Catholic Law wasn’t even on Anaim’s radar. “I didn’t plan to apply to Catholic,” he admits. “I was working for the Federal Government in DC and wanted to practice law in a different state, so I targeted schools in Chicago, Detroit, and Pittsburgh.” However, a colleague’s recommendation led him to explore Catholic Law, and a visit to the campus changed everything. “I appreciated the small class sizes, the student-to-faculty ratio, and the location in DC, which offered plenty of internship opportunities in government. The student outcomes were excellent, and ultimately, staying in DC and attending Catholic was the best decision for me.”
Anaim’s time at Catholic Law was marked by a wealth of practical experiences and unique opportunities. “I worked in the Immigration and Refugee Advocacy Clinic, externed at the National Labor Relations Board, and competed in and led the Moot Court Association,” he shares. One of his most memorable experiences was the summer study abroad program in Poland. “I lived in Warsaw and Krakow, externed at the Polish Chamber of Commerce’s Court of Arbitration, and took classes. Poland is a beautiful and affordable country, and the friendships I made during that summer carry on to this day. It was truly a ‘only at Catholic Law’ moment.”
As Anaim prepares to graduate, he looks forward to serving as a Judicial Clerk for the Honorable James Eisenhower at the Court of Common Pleas in Philadelphia, PA. “Judge Eisenhower runs a criminal courtroom, so I’ll be dealing with felony crimes,” he explains. “This opportunity is the direct result of the consultation and references by my professors at Catholic Law. I certainly wouldn’t have had this opportunity if I went anywhere else.”
Reflecting on his time at Catholic Law, Anaim emphasizes the faculty’s unique approach and dedication. “What stands out most for me is the faculty. They stress the human element of the law and the history behind legal rules, rather than just viewing issues from a risk-management perspective. The professors here genuinely care about the mission and the student body. If you show up and put in the work, you will be rewarded.”
For Anaim, Catholic Law was more than just a place to earn a degree—it was a transformative experience that shaped his career and personal growth. “The values of The Church are evident here, and the faculty truly care to shepherd the next generation of law students. That’s what makes Catholic Law so special.”