Student Spotlight: Charlotte Kahan ’25

2024–25 Student Researcher, Reiss Center on Law and Security
Finalist of the Orison S. Marden Moot Court Competition
Senior Editor, Journal of Legislation and Public Policy

Before coming to NYU Law, you were a teacher in the Bronx. How did that experience shape your perspective on law school?

My experience as a teacher was a real eye-opener for me when I was in law school. It’s easy to lose your bearings in the heady, sometimes “ivory tower” atmosphere of law school. Working with children keeps you grounded. They remind you of what’s important and ensure that you never take yourself too seriously.

More substantively, my time teaching at the height of the pandemic in one of the poorest congressional districts in the country reminded me of the needs of the communities that benefit—or lose—the most from the power of the law. Regardless of where my career takes me, I remain motivated to put my legal education in service to those communities.

You have taught debate and were a finalist in the Marden Moot Court. Was it your talent for debate that led you to study law?

I have enjoyed reading, writing, and debating since high school. The process of developing unique and compelling arguments on important issues has thrilled me, and I have always had a certain competitive spirit—an innate will to win—that now seems very well suited to a career in law. I am fortunate to be surrounded by incredibly talented people now at NYU Law, from whom I have learned a great deal about effective oral defense and who inspire me to continue to improve my skills.

Which courses and professors had the biggest influence on you at NYU Law?

I particularly enjoyed the constitutional law course with Professor [Kenji] Yoshino. On the first day, he explained that his teaching philosophy was “the pedagogy of joy,” and I felt that in every single class. He is a very special professor and made sure that the course content was deeply relevant and important.

I also enjoyed the course “Criminal Law and Evidence” with Professor [Erin] Murphy, whose enthusiasm for the content was palpable.

What’s your favorite thing to do *outside* of class? What’s your favorite way to spend a day in New York City?

I love long walks, especially along the Hudson River or in Central Park. Sometimes there are great free activities like kayaking on the Hudson or playing impromptu soccer. A fresh New York bagel is also a great way to start the day.

Have you read any books or listened to any podcasts recently that you would recommend?

I often listen to Pod Save America and Pod Save the World – I find they provide insightful and often humorous commentary on current national and global events. I also listen to Strict Scrutiny, co-hosted by NYU Law professor Melissa Murray, who keeps me up to date on current legal news.

Most of my reading is done for pleasure in the summer. Last summer I read a few books by David Sedaris, as well as Joan Didion’s The year of magical thinkingwhich I recommend.

Posted September 20, 2024