Samantha van der Sommen

A law student at Florida State University, Samantha van der Sommen is committed to using her legal education to support vulnerable communities and advance human rights. Originally from Oneonta, New York, she first interned with the Center for the Advancement of Human Rights as an undergraduate and returned to complete her FSU law pro bono hours after finding the experience deeply rewarding. Samantha believes that being born in the United States comes with privilege and sees it as her responsibility to use her education and resources to help individuals seeking safety and stability. She is inspired by her friend and fellow FSU law student Sara Boles for her dedication to immigration advocacy. While she is still exploring which area of law she wants to pursue, Samantha hopes to build a future in litigation. Outside of law school, she enjoys playing tennis and volleyball and spending time at local favorites like RedEye Coffee.