Graduate Spotlight Sam Bifulco

FlexTime program graduate Samuel Bifulco's advanced writing requirement was published in New York Zoning Law and Practice Report. He worked full-time while attending law school in the FlexTime Program and looks forward to a bright future making a difference in the lives of others.

Why did you decide to go to law school?
Public service has always been important to me. Having experience in local government administration and civic leadership in roles like Board Member on the Centereach Civic Association, I pride myself on giving back to our Long Island community and improving the lives of those around me. It was this foundation that inspired me to attend law school with the long-term goal of continued service to our local communities.

Why did you choose the FlexTime program? How do you maintain balance in your life?
The FlexTime J.D. Program at Touro Law Center is a cutting-edge legal program that allows students to complete their juris doctor in just under four years. The program, geared towards working people and those with families, administers the material through an in-person, online hybrid model. In addition to providing maximum flexibility, FlexTime students have ample professional and extracurricular opportunities while completing their studies. The structure of the program has allowed me to stay extremely organized which has been the key to maintaining personal, academic, and professional balance. For these reasons, I chose the FlexTime J.D. program, and could not be more pleased with the decision I made.

Do you have a part- or full-time job?
I work full-time for one of New York's largest Townships as the Executive Assistant in the Brookhaven Town Law Department. In this capacity, I have the opportunity to oversee the Town's unsafe structure program with the mission of improving the quality of life for all those who live, work, and enjoy all our Town has to offer.

Your AWR was recently published! Tell us about the article.
I recently had the opportunity to publish Drones and Zoning Enforcement: Will it Fly? in the New York Zoning Law and Practice Report. I chose to write about drones and zoning enforcement given my passion for technology, municipal, zoning, and planning law. Our increasingly interconnected and technologically driven society calls for us to evaluate and determine appropriate uses for technology in local government. While there is certainly a place for drone use in the municipal space, it is imperative we balance the use of technology with individual privacy and property rights.

What are your plans now that you have graduated?
I am eager to use my skill set to make a difference. I look forward to putting my passion and commitment to excellence to work on behalf of our community, whether that be continued public service or practicing privately in an area of interest.

What advice would you give prospective or current students?
Never allow someone to put you in a box. Work tirelessly in pursuit of your hopes, goals, and dreams despite those who may want to confine you to a predetermined future. With passion, perseverance, and a lot of hard work, you can accomplish whatever you set your mind to!

Check out the article here.