Touro College 2013 commencement

Number of graduates

240 graduates were awarded degrees at the Touro College Jacob D. Fuchsberg Law Center

Law Dean Patricia E. Salkin

"We expect that the world would be a better place because how each of you choose to use the skills and credentials you are acquiring today."

Commencement speaker

Victoria A. Graffeo, associate judge of New York State Court of Appeals, said, "As you begin to practice law, people will depend on your abilities and good judgment for advice and assistance. Always keep in mind that what attracted you to this calling was to be of service to others."

Class speaker

Tiffany D. Frigenti, valedictorian of the full-time division, said, "Law school has not only been an academic preparation for the careers that we will one day have, but more importantly, it has taught us to be the formidable individuals and attorneys all of us will undoubtedly be."

Students react

Lisa Belrose, 29, of Oakdale

"I'm studying for the bar exam. I also have a job with Sterling Risk as a legal analyst."

Greg Desire, 30, of Queens

"Right now, I'm just studying for the bar," said the graduate, who may take a legal job in New York City. "In the future, I want to be a prosecutor and a bureau chief."

Adam Tavares, 27, of Queens

Tavares said he has accepted a job with a Long Island immigration firm. "I'll be admitted as a paralegal, but once I pass the bar, I'll be an associate."

Biana Mashevich, 26, of Brooklyn

"Hopefully, I can find a job and start working. I like criminal defense and elder law, helping senior citizens who have legal issues."

Julianne Rodriguez, 24, of Bayport

"I'm going to get a master's degree in international business law from Queen Mary [college] at the University of London."