September 02, 2025

ASU Law alum selected for prestigious clerkship at the Court of Justice of the European Union

This fall, ASU Law alum Samantha Hollinshead (JD '25) will head to Luxembourg to serve as a clerk for Judge Kecsmár at the Court of Justice of the European Union. She was selected through the Dean Acheson Legal Scholar Program, one of the most competitive international clerkship opportunities for U.S. law students. Each year, only two to three American students are chosen.

 

“Raised in a family dedicated to civil rights and public service, I have always embraced the principle of being ‘the one who speaks up’ against injustice,” Hollinshead said. “This profound influence has shaped my understanding of law and policy, driving my commitment to advancing the rule of law.”

 

In her role, Hollinshead will conduct legal research, analyze cases, draft opinions and interpret EU treaties and legislation. Her work will support judicial deliberations on cases brought by individuals, companies and Member States concerning EU actions and regulations.

 

“This experience will provide me with invaluable insights into the interpretation and application of EU law within one of the world’s most influential courts,” she said. “It aligns perfectly with my long-term career aspirations in international law and policy, particularly in fostering dialogue between U.S. and European legal systems.”

 

Hollinshead’s journey to Luxembourg was shaped by academic and professional experiences that built her expertise in international law. During an exchange program at Bocconi University in Milan, she studied EU legal principles and governance structures, focusing on case studies that mirror the work she will take on as a clerk.

 

She also gained hands-on experience through internships with Civitas Maxima and the International Institute for Justice and the Rule of Law in Malta, where she researched international legal issues and saw the importance of collaboration in addressing transnational crimes.

 

At ASU Law, Hollinshead deepened her commitment to the field through the International Rule of Law and Security Fellowship, the International Law Society, and mentorship from faculty and staff.

 

“Through the Center for Law and Global Affairs, Andrea Cayley has been an invaluable mentor to me, helping me chart my path in international law and continuously offering advice,” she said.

 

Looking ahead, she encourages other students to pursue nontraditional opportunities. “Law school can often feel like it funnels you into one track, but embracing opportunities that nurture your interests can open doors you might not even know exist,” Hollinshead said.

 

She also stressed the value of mentorship, crediting her externship supervisor at Civitas Maxima, Kristina Hon, as an example. “Some of the most impactful moments in my law school journey have come from these connections,” she said. “These kinds of relationships will remain with you well beyond your time in law school.”

 

For Hollinshead, the clerkship is both a milestone and a chance to contribute to the values that have guided her since childhood. “Through this clerkship, I am committed to advancing my career in international law, believing it will provide a global perspective that builds upon my previous experiences and empowers me to make meaningful contributions to the field.”

Written by Andrea Estrada