Welcome to the Office of Student Affairs

The Office of Student Affairs (OSA) welcomes you to another safe space at the Louis D. Brandeis School of Law. We believe in transparency, authentic individuality, academic excellence and overall well-being. We embrace the changes that allow us to think of innovative ways to engage our students. The OSA supports the mission, vision and principles set forth by the University of Louisville.

This office is dedicated to helping students develop a strong platform for student success and wellness. We offer support, organizational leadership opportunities and guidance while facilitating meaningful relationships among students, faculty, and staff.

Image: Signature, Crystal Coel
Crystal Rae Coel, Esq., M.A.

Assistant Dean for Student Affairs

Student Spotlights

	TJ Hensley SBA President Class of 2026 Hometown: Harlan County, Kentucky What you love about Brandeis: I will forever be indebted to Brandeis for bringing me into a beloved community. People from all walks of life and almost any place one could think of, each with our own ideas, passions, and callings, but all of whom are committed to making the world a better place and using our talents to make that happen. These are friendships that will last a lifetime and beyond, and I owe them to this place. Career goal: After graduation, I hope to work in government and politics to some degree. But no matter what form that takes, I will do everything in my power to bring justice to the working people of eastern Kentucky, and beyond. Biggest influence: More than anyone else, my parents, Todd and Billie, and my siblings, Gracie and Toby, have profoundly influenced me. They inspire me every day to do the best that I can, and to not give up when things get tough. They have each done so much to support me, and without their unconditional love, I could not have made it this far. Favorite quote: “Do not pray for easy lives. Pray to be stronger.” – President John F. Kennedy
	Jess D’Ambrosio SBA Executive Vice President Class of 2026 Hometown: Melbourne, Florida What you love about Brandeis: My favorite thing about law school is that I am almost done with law school. Kidding! I love the Brandeis community. Everyone you meet genuinely wants you to succeed. I've made friendships that I know will last a lifetime, and I've built professional relationships that I hope will last the same. Career goal: I want to continue doing plaintiff's side employment law. It's what I came to law school for, and I currently work at Atlas Law Group and truly enjoy what I do. (Shout out to Professor Levinson for the job hookup!) Biggest influence: My husband and biggest supporter, Thomas. He is always there to give me the push I need (and the reminder to take a deep breath). Without him, I absolutely would not be the person I am today. Favorite quotes: “Cs get degrees.” & “Fake it 'til you make it. Even if you don't think you belong here, you do!”
	Prabha Rajasekaran Class of 2026 Hometown: Pollachi, Tamil Nadu, India What you love about Brandeis: The law school experience has been as intellectually stimulating as I had hoped. But Brandeis is markedly special because of how well the school mentors and guides students, particularly first-generation students like me. Although I hail from a different country, I never once felt out of place at this institution, which inculcates integrity, camaraderie, and a love for public service. Brandeis also offers an incredible support system unlike anywhere else. The faculty and staff genuinely care about our professional growth and personal wellbeing and are always eager to help. Career goal: After graduation, I would like to practice corporate law while also serving the community through pro bono work. Biggest influence: My mother, Kamalam, who grew up in a quiet village and progressed through education and hard work to become a university professor in a bustling metropolis, has been the single most influential person in my life. Her life speaks volumes of remarkable grit and determination, and her selflessness toward her family is inspiring. I strive to emulate her qualities, and my adaptability, work ethic, and discipline are a testament to that. Favorite quote: “It takes a lot of courage to show your dreams to someone else.” – Erma Bombeck
	Meg Stein Class of 2026 Hometown: Youngstown, Ohio What you love about Brandeis: I really appreciate Brandeis’s commitment to mental health. The legal field in general has a reputation for being emotionally taxing and high-pressure. This can take a toll both during school and throughout a legal career. It means a lot to see the school take the time to check in with us and encourage healthy habits, not just to help us succeed academically but also to support our growth into strong, emotionally resilient lawyers. Career goal: After graduation, I hope to pursue a career in personal injury law, with a particular focus on medical malpractice and equine advocacy. I originally wanted to go to law school because I’ve always felt strongly about standing up for people whose voices often go unheard. I am excited to carry that passion into my career and fight for those who need a strong advocate in their corner. Biggest influence: My parents have influenced me the most. Moving to Kentucky and being six hours away from home was a big adjustment, especially as a first-generation law student. Even though they may not always fully understand the day-to-day challenges I face, they have always been my biggest cheerleaders, encouraging me to keep pushing forward even when things get tough. Their belief in my potential has given me the confidence to pursue my goals and means everything to me. Favorite quote: “I don't know where I'm going from here, but I promise it won't be boring!” – David Bowie
	Jessica Valiani Class of 2026 Hometown: Richmond, Virginia What you love about Brandeis: At Brandeis, support comes from every direction—faculty, staff, and fellow students. While some law schools can feel cutthroat, Brandeis fosters a collaborative environment. Students genuinely want to see each other succeed, and professors are equally invested in helping us reach our goals. Career goal: I am honored to have received an Early Decision acceptance from the U.S. Army JAG Corps. I plan to build my career as a Judge Advocate in the Army. Biggest influence: My dad has been the most significant influence in my life. He has supported my dreams unconditionally and stood by me every step of the way. I can only hope to become even half the attorney that he is. Favorite quote: “Even darkness must pass. A new day will come. And when the sun shines, it’ll shine out the clearer.” – Samwise Gamgee (Lord of the Rings)
	Alexis Self Class of 2026 Hometown: Louisville, Kentucky What you love about Brandeis: My favorite thing about Brandeis is there is always someone willing to be a helping hand. There's always that stigma of law schools being super competitive, and not that students aren’t dedicated to doing well—it’s just that everyone wants everyone to succeed. Career goal: Throughout law school, I have maintained an open mind about the different paths a legal career can offer. The law deeply fascinates me, and there are several practice areas I am eager to explore further such as business litigation and criminal defense work. As I enter my 3L year, I hope that continued learning, meaningful networking, and hands-on opportunities will help determine the direction I am most passionate about pursuing. Biggest influence: The person who has had the greatest influence on my life is my husband, Skyler. At every stage, he has been my unwavering source of support—through the pursuit of multiple degrees, the challenges of pregnancy, and now as we navigate parenthood while in school. His tireless work ethic not only inspires me daily but also provides the foundation that enables my own success in law school. Favorite quote: "A woman is like a tea bag; you never know how strong it is until it’s in hot water.” – Eleanor Roosevelt
	Grace Jelkin Class of 2026 Hometown: Columbus, Ohio What you love about Brandeis: What I love about Brandeis is the culture and availability of the faculty. Career goal: After graduating law school, I will be pursuing litigation, either in business litigation or labor and employment. Biggest influence: My biggest influence is my mother, a special education and civil rights attorney for a public school district. Growing up watching her advocate for those who are vulnerable to inequalities and underrepresentation in K–12 public schools was inspiring and valuable at both a personal and professional level. Before entering middle school, I knew law school was the path for me! Favorite quote: “Life's most persistent and urgent question is, 'What are you doing for others?'” – Martin Luther King Jr.
	Tyece Shelton Class of 2026 Hometown: Louisville, Kentucky What you love about Brandeis: The fact that you can feel the level of care and dedication both the faculty and staff have towards the well-being and success of the students. Career goal: I'd like to go into personal injury, criminal defense, or civil rights law. Biggest influence: My father, who inspired me to be an attorney at a very young age! Favorite quote: “Sometimes I go about in pity for myself, and all the while a great wind carries me across the sky…” – The Sopranos