Ayah Manalastas

Hometown: Washington, D.C.
Email: apm7085@psu.edu
Schedule a meeting with Ayah!

Legal Areas of Interest:
Litigation, energy, appellate advocacy, LGBTQ+ rights, immigration

Undergraduate Study:
B.S. in Commerce from the University of Virginia (McIntire School of Commerce) with dual concentrations in Marketing and IT, track in Business Analytics

Campus and Community Involvement:
President of Women’s Law Caucus,  Secretary of OutLaw, Volunteer for Name Change Clinic, and Legal Analysis & Writing Teaching Assistant

Life Before Dickinson Law:
I worked as a paralegal for several years before going to law school, which provided great practical experience and solidified my decision to pursue a J.D. As a result, I honed my legal writing and research skills early on while I learned the ins and outs of working in a law firm.

A Dickinson Law Favorite:
Curtilage Comebacks! I love the community aspect and how each organization makes the event their own.

Why Dickinson Law?:
I was primarily drawn to the small class sizes and tight-knit community. I am also excited to participate in the Semester in D.C. program.

Externship:
I was a summer associate/law clerk at Wright & Talisman, where I worked on regulatory issues affecting the electric and oil/gas industries related to matters before the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and federal appellate courts. I will be working at Thompson Coburn LLP as a 2025 summer associate.

Favorite Course:
Legal Writing with Prof. Martin!

Advice for Prospective Law Students:
When studying, do what works for you and avoid comparing yourself to others. Try to find work-life balance. Remember, there is more to life than law school!

Something You Love About Carlisle:
The local shops and restaurants downtown such as Georgie Lou’s candy shop, One13 Social, Hungry Run Distillery, and Nonna Ilva to name a few.

On Choosing A Law School:
I suggest choosing based on fit, employment rates, financial considerations, and other important factors instead of chasing prestige/rankings. Law school will be your home for three years so make sure you do your research. 

You’d Never Guess That… :
When I was in high school, I was the shortest player on the varsity basketball team.

Favorite Book:
Hard to pick a favorite, but I am a fan of the Harry Potter series.