Stella Reyter
Summer 2007

Education:
Stella recently received a Masters Degree in Social Work from New York University. Beginning in August 2007, she will be pursing a law degree at CUNY School of Law in Queens.

Objective:
Her goal is to represent victims of domestic violence in divorce, child support, and custody proceedings.   She also wants to work on policies aimed at improving immigrants' access to court services. She is proud to be a part of a project designed to enhance the administration of justice in our courts.

What she has learned from her internship at CJP:
Although many jurors are initially reluctant to participate in jury service, those who are actually chosen to sit on a jury overwhelmingly express appreciation for our legal process.   Stella also has discovered that many jurors appreciate the interest in their feedback and are eager to contribute

Sheila Raj
Spring, Summer, Fall 2006

Education:
She is currently a graduate student at the University of Connecticut. She will be receiving a Masters in Public Administration in Fall of 2007.

Objective:
“Ideally, would like to work in the non profit field. Legal research, advocacy, and development are all positions I would like to pursue."

What she has learned from her internship at CJP:
“Unfortunately, we can face obstacles even when fulfilling our civic duty: receiving directions, time constraints, lack of information, etc. No question asked of me was too small, and no concern expressed was too great to address. It is my opinion that the entire voir dire process can in some ways affect the verdict of a case. I hope I was able to offer some comfort and answers to all the potential jurors I happened to come across.”

David Pengel
Fall 2006
Spring, Summer 2007

David joined the Citizens' Jury Project in September 2006. He has been assisting jurors in Manhattan, Brooklyn and Staten Island since he joined. David received a bachelor's degree in political science from Adelphi University in May 2006 and a recipient of departmental honors by the time he graduated.

Since his commencement in May, David has maintained a growing interest in New York City's government and history and hopes to serve the public interest in his future.

Joanna A. Sorocki
Fall 2006

Education:
Joanna A. Sorocki is a graduate of Long Island University and graduated summa cum laude with a BA in Journalism. She is currently a second year law student at Brooklyn Law School.

Objective:
Her objective is to learn more about the court system in general and to gain a better understanding of the jury process. This will help her to be a more understanding litigator. She is also very excited to be part of a team that is making a difference within the courts.

What she has learned from her internship at CJP:
Although Joanna grew up in New York City, she is amazed at the diversity and dedication of citizens. Most people, although they are concerned about the time jury duty takes and having to deal with their own lives, are willing to serve.