Snell & Wilmer Announces New Fellows for Fellowship for Advancement and Resources (FAR) Program

PHOENIX – Snell & Wilmer’s Committee on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion is pleased to announce its 2024 Fellowship for Advancement and Resources (FAR) Fellows. Established in 2009, FAR is a holistic pipeline initiative demonstrating Snell & Wilmer’s persistent and unwavering commitment to inclusion and belonging in the workplace and legal profession. The FAR Fellowship provides LSAT preparation assistance, guidance, and mentorship to help undergraduates from unique backgrounds and experiences pursue and succeed in law school.

The six participants selected for the 2024 program are Morsell Arghandiwal, Clifford Ayres-Brown, Treeya Desai, Daniela Meneses, Quetzalli Ortiz, and Poorva Sharma.

Morsell Arghandiwal is a rising senior at the University of California, Davis, majoring in Political Science Public Service and Sociology. During her senior year, Arghandiwal will spend her time as a Learning Assistant for the Origins of Modern Sociological Theory and complete a research-based honors thesis on immigrant mothers in the United States. When she is not studying for her classes, Arghandiwal participates in experimental learning through her role as a student volunteer for JusticeCorps to support low-income families seeking legal support.

Arghandiwal is the proud daughter of two Afghans and an auntie to two nephews. She plans on attending law school to develop her professional skills and pursue a humanitarian-based legal career. In her free time, Arghandiwal advocates and creates a safe space for juveniles and immigrants in her community. Arghandiwal is incredibly thankful to have the support, knowledge, and guidance of the FAR program because she is now one step closer to fulfilling her dreams. Fun Fact: Arghandiwal was awarded with the Picasso Prodigy and Most Likely to Paint Happy Little Trees by Concord High’s Class of 2021.

Clifford Ayres-Brown is a rising senior at Howard University, majoring in Economics with a minor in Political Science. Ayres-Brown chose these fields because they are social sciences that allow him to understand the societal implications of wants, needs, and demands within a political system. Originally from Charlottesville, Virginia, Ayres-Brown is eager to begin the process of applying to law school, with this fellowship providing the essential groundwork and support he needs. Ayres-Brown’s passion for law stems from his family’s deep roots in public service, and he views the legal profession as one that prioritizes the public good.

Ayres-Brown actively contributes to his community by volunteering and regularly donating blood. To stay active, he enjoys running and reading. Ayres-Brown has had the honor of interning at the United States Attorney’s Office in D.C. and teaching at Albemarle High School for a summer enrichment program. These experiences have strengthened Ayres-Brown’s resolve to pursue a career in law, dedicated to serving and uplifting others.

Treeya Desai graduated, magna cum laude, from the University of Arizona (UofA) with a bachelor’s degree in political science and public policy & management, and minors in Spanish and economics. During her time at the UofA, Desai was actively involved in Phi Alpha Delta, a pre-law fraternity; Alpha Delta Pi where she served as Director of New Membership Experience; and President of the Indian Students Association. Additionally, Desai was a member of the Order of Omega and Women in Econ as well as contributed to the Wildcat Women Teach Economics program, where they taught elementary students basic economics concepts. Desai gained practical experience interning with the American Bar Association through the organization’s Detention and LOP hotline, and with the United State District Court, District of Arizona’s Pretrial Services.

Desai’s passion for the legal field is never-ending, and she is thrilled about the FAR Fellowship’s ability to support her law school journey and connect her to opportunities that will positively influence her future career. Fun Fact: Desai has visited about 20 countries, and she is only 22 years old!

Daniela Meneses is a first-generation college student and driven Los Angeles native on the brink of completing her undergraduate degree one year ahead of schedule at California State University, Los Angeles (Cal State LA), where she is studying history. As Meneses enters her senior year, she excels academically and actively contributes to her campus community as the Secretary of the Cal State LA Pre-Law Society. Beyond her studies, Meneses dedicates her time as a Clerical Assistant with the Cal State LA Office of Alumni Relations, showcasing her commitment to her education and professional development.

Meneses enjoys reading, spending time with friends and family in her free time, and following women’s sports. As a participant in the Snell & Wilmer FAR program, Meneses aims to use the support offered to smoothly navigate the LSAT and the complexities of law school applications. With a sincere desire to promote diversity within the legal profession, Meneses sees this opportunity as a personal achievement and a means to pave the way for underrepresented voices in law as she learns and grows under the guidance of those at Snell & Wilmer.

Quetzalli Ortiz is the first in her family to attend college and obtain a bachelor’s degree. Ortiz studied criminal justice at San Diego State University, where she developed a passion and interest for law. She had the privilege of interning at a non-profit organization in San Diego that provides pro bono services to local unrepresented communities throughout the immigration process. One of Ortiz’s biggest passions is assisting those who feel lost or unheard in a legal process. Ortiz is beyond grateful for the opportunity to be part of the FAR program, which will support her throughout her law school journey.

Poorva Sharma moved from her home in Ramgarh, Rajasthan, India, to the United States at age five, and recently graduated from Arizona State University with a B.A. in Business (Law), a minor in Justice Studies, and a Certificate in Socio-Legal Studies, earning the Mensch Prize for Humanities for her honors thesis on uniformity in the court-appointed attorney process at Tempe Municipal Court. At ASU, Sharma served as President of the Pre-Law Society, the United Nations Association, and the Restorative Justice Advocates. Poorva also utilized conflict resolution techniques to address disputes between consumers and businesses.

As a first-generation immigrant and the first female in her family to enter the workforce, Sharma is set to become the first lawyer in her family. Additionally, Sharma is dedicated to supporting vulnerable communities and businesses. Currently an intern with the Civil Department at the Judicial Branch of Arizona, Sharma aims for a career in International Business Law. In her free time, Sharma enjoys sewing and Bollywood dancing. Sharma is excited to utilize the FAR Fellowship’s support for a successful entrance into law school and a future legal career. Sharma looks forward to connecting with and learning from attorneys at Snell & Wilmer to become a successful attorney herself.