Erin M Barclay ’98

Segment Synopsis: In this interview, Erin Barclay shares her journey to law school, her desire to pursue public service, and the experiences that shaped her legal career. Interviewed by Jodyann Galvin, Erin reflects on her decision to attend the University at Buffalo (UB) School of Law, motivated by a commitment to public service and pragmatic financial considerations. She details the self-doubt and challenges she faced as a first-generation graduate student, as well as the pivotal moments that helped her gain confidence, such as her involvement in UB's Domestic Violence Legal Clinic. Barclay also shares memories of her transformative summer in Poland, working on international women's human rights, and the enduring mentorship of Professor Isabelle Marcus, whose guidance influenced her professional path. Barclay emphasizes the importance of community, mentorship, and perseverance in shaping a meaningful legal career dedicated to public service.

Keywords: Caliber of Students; Career / Gender; Choosing UB Law School; Class Composition; Faculty / Professors; Mentors; Moot Court; Reputation; Service; Choice of Law

Subjects: CAREER: LEGAL; PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE; UB LAW AS STUDENT

Segment Synopsis: In the continuation of her interview with Jodyann Galvin, Erin Barclay delves into the profound sense of family and camaraderie she experienced during her time at the University at Buffalo (UB) School of Law. She recounts how forming close-knit relationships with peers provided essential support and fostered both personal and professional growth. Erin highlights her favorite law school courses, including family law, criminal law, and moot court, explaining how these classes honed her skills in public service and conflict resolution.

Transitioning to her illustrious career at the State Department, Erin shares significant milestones such as leading the coordination of private evacuation flights that safely relocated 2,500 at-risk Afghan civilians in August 2021 during the US withdrawal from Afghanistan. She also discusses her pivotal role in the United Nations' first resolution focused on LGBTIQ+ rights in 2016, emphasizing the real-world impact of her work on marginalized communities.

Erin attributes much of her success to the mentorship and community she found at UB, particularly the influence of Professor Isabelle Marcus. She offers valuable advice to current law students, encouraging them to follow their passions and utilize the resources and relationships available to them at UB. Erin's narrative underscores the lasting impact of her law school experience on her dedicated career in international women's human rights and public service, highlighting the importance of perseverance, community, and purposeful action in making meaningful societal contributions.

Keywords: Accomplishments; Advice; Caliber of Students; Career / Professional Experience; Classes; Expectations; Experience as Student; Gender; Government jobs; Law Faculty; Moot Court; Significant Cases; UB Preparation; Fondest Memory

Subjects: CAREER: GENDER; GENDER; PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE; UB LAW AS STUDENT; UB LAW FACULTY; CAREER: LEGAL