Diana Segovia-Granillo

“I loved that the Political Science Department gave me the opportunity to express my thoughts and feelings about different topics; I learned how to give and receive positive feedback. I expanded my knowledge and immersed myself in learning about different cultures and languages.

Diana Segovia-Granillo ’22 is a senior paralegal and main interpreter at the law office of Craig Relles, an immigration law attorney in White Plains.

She’s studying to take the LSAT exam to attend law school and become an attorney.

Diana’s Story in Her Own Words

“I am a Hispanic/ Latina who left her country at only 16 years of age. When I walked to get to this country, the only things I brought with me were hopes and a dream. It was the most challenging experience I will ever go through.

“I did not have a Lawful Permanent Status nor was I a citizen of this country. However, I did have “a work authorization card,” which allowed me to work all throughout my high school years.

“I had to have discipline because I have those hopes and dreams that carried throughout my journey to the U.S. Because I was a first-generation student, I was able to apply for the EOP program, which would cover half of my tuition. I wanted to do something with law, so my plan was to become a sponge and absorb everything that came my way.

“It was difficult, but for sure I couldn’t have done it without all my professors and advisors. During my last semester at Purchase, I started looking for a job as a secretary or something that could get my foot in the door, and I found the law office of Craig Relles, my current home.

“I spent my last semester not only being a full-time student working on my senior thesis but also working at the firm as a secretary. Three months in, I was offered a higher position as a paralegal. At first, I was scared because I knew it came with a lot of responsibility, since now I will be dealing with people’s futures.

“Now, after one year and seven months, I have become the Senior Paralegal and Main Interpreter at the firm, and so far, I have changed so many lives. It feels like I am currently living in a dream that once upon a time I did not think I could achieve. I know I can do more, and I will.”