Ali Gennaro
Current Employer/Organisation Name
New Hampshire Superior Courts
What have you been doing since leaving Exeter, and what are you doing now?
I am a licensed attorney practicing in the state of New Hampshire in the United States. I currently work one on one with the judges of the felony and civil trial court of the state to conduct research and draft Orders on pending litigation. After I finish my contract here, I will be moving on to the New Hampshire Supreme Court to serve as a judicial clerk there. the New Hampshire Supreme Court is the highest court in the state. It serves as appellate review and interprets and settles law for the state.
Why did you choose this career? And what do you enjoy most about your work?
I decided I wanted to become an attorney while completing my M.A. in Classics at Exeter. I wanted a career where I could balance intellectual pursuits, like research and nuanced critical thinking, with a career that had real world impact and could help people. I love that the work that I do is both intellectually stimulating and really helps people.
Please tell us if you were a member of any societies, groups or sports clubs?
As a Master’s student, I was a proud member of the Exeter University Women’s Rugby First Team in 2013/2014 under the leadership of the incomparable Jo Yapp.
What did you enjoy most about your programme and what was the biggest highlight?
The Professors. Hands down. They were the most amazing faculty I have ever had the opportunity to work with. Every one of them was an expert in their respective fields of study and all of them were equal parts supportive, challenging, and engaging. I especially enjoyed my time working with Elena Isayev, John Wilkinson, and David Leith.
What did you enjoy most about studying here?
Everything. The community, the access to incredible opportunities like doing an independent study with John Wilkinson and studying in Rome for 2 months. I loved every minute of my time at Exeter.
Why did you choose to study at Exeter?
I chose to study at Exeter because of my interest in Roman medicine and archaeology. At the time, Exeter had two of the world’s experts in the field, and I was beyond fortunate enough to be able to work with both of them.
What skills and experiences have been most useful for your career?
The research, writing, and critical analysis skills I honed while at Exeter have been invaluable in my chosen field.
What advice would you give to a current student who wishes to pursue your career?
Major in Classics. If you want to be a lawyer, study the classics. The writing and analytical skills you will develop will put you far ahead of others in your field.
What are your plans for the future?
I will spend the next two years at the New Hampshire Supreme Court. After that, I intend to work in criminal law before ultimately pursuing a career in government.
