Rising 2L will spend 10 weeks interning for Boston Public Schools
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Emily Philbrook, a rising 2L at the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth's School of Law (UMass Law), has been selected as a 2025 Rappaport Fellow in Law and Public Policy. She is the 11th student from UMass Law to earn this prestigious fellowship.
"I am profoundly grateful to the Rappaport Center for the opportunity to explore my passion for public policy and to connect it with my developing knowledge as a law student," said Philbrook. "This fellowship seamlessly blends both my humanitarian optimism and legal pragmatism in working towards my goal as a leader for social change."
The Rappaport Fellowship offers outstanding law students the opportunity to engage with the complexities and rewards of public service at the highest levels of state and municipal government. Each year, 12 fellows are chosen from a competitive application and interview process. Fellows receive a $10,000 stipend and complete impactful summer internships in government.
This summer, Philbrook will work in the Office of the Legal Advisor for Boston Public Schools. Working as a sixth-grade English teacher between undergrad and law school, she advocated for an increased focus on minimizing knowledge gaps in literacy and student voice in the learning process.
Now, she's applying that same student-centered mindset to her legal work.
"I want to make meaningful contributions to the conversations happening in urban public education while applying the practical and technical legal skills I have developed during my 1L year," she said. "I hope to make lasting connections with my mentors and peers to support growing a broad network of like-minded individuals working towards a better way forward."
Philbrook sees the law as a powerful tool for equity—particularly when combined with education. Her decision to attend UMass Law was rooted in a commitment to public service and access to opportunity.
"I chose to go to law school during a time of unprecedented change in public institutions to contribute to a society which prioritizes equity, justice, and human rights for all," she said. "UMass Law, as the only public law school in Massachusetts, is a pillar of my strongest belief in making education affordable and accessible for everyone. I believe education can be a tool to uplift communities and individuals, and to me, that is pursuing a more just world."
UMass Law Dean Sam Panarella praised Philbrook’s drive and outlook, noting the unique value she brings to the field.
"Emily brings both heart and intellect to her work, and her background as an educator gives her a unique perspective on law and policy," said Panarella. "She is the kind of thoughtful, community-minded advocate we aim to develop at UMass Law, and we're incredibly proud of her."
The Rappaport Center will visit UMass Law for an information session on Wednesday, November 5 from 12-1pm. Learn more about the Rappaport Fellowship.