December 10, 2024

ASU Law student shifts focus to help shape a sustainable future

Editor’s note: This story is part of a series of profiles of notable fall 2024 graduates.

Mohamed Magazuba is ready to open the doors of his career and explore the many opportunities surrounding sustainability issues. This fall, he is receiving his Master of Legal Studies with a specialization in sustainability law from the Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law at Arizona State University.

Magazuba said his time at ASU Law has given him a deep understanding of how law and policy intersect with global sustainability challenges. Through this program, he has learned about the harmful impacts of current global production and consumption patterns on both the environment and communities. He’s also developed the skills to analyze and communicate complex global sustainability issues that will prepare him for a career in this growing field.

As a father and husband, Magazuba thanks his family for being there every step of the way. He came to the United States only three years ago hoping to do something involving federal prosecution of international crimes. However, that changed after a few sustainability-focused courses showed him how global energy law was feeding into all of the other areas of his studies.

What he’s most excited about, though, is being able to have more time for his wife and kids.

Read on to learn more about Magazuba's ASU journey and where his path is leading.

Note: Answers may have been lightly edited for length and/or clarity.

Question: What is an interesting moment, story or accomplishment from your ASU Law career?

A: The totality of my experience in ASU Law that is most intriguing is a combination of my understanding of the convergence of law and policy and its contribution to global peace, security and development. Typically, law is considered a courtroom career. ASU Law has changed that perspective for me to understand that law and policy are integrated in a way that spans beyond the corridors of the courtroom, thus contributing significantly to shaping global peace, security and development.

Q: What was your “aha” moment when you realized you wanted to study the field you majored in?

A: My “aha” moment in ASU Law was discovering the possibility of studying in Washington, D.C., as part of my program's study requirement. That experience was fulfilling. The opportunity to study in Washington, D.C., brought several amazing experiences from various perspectives. The seminars from officials from state departments, professors working on U.S. foreign missions — particularly in Ukraine — and perspectives drawn from U.S. foreign relations, the work of the United Nations and its various organs and missions and other international and regional bodies enriched my understanding of international rule of law and security, which is my study focus at ASU Law.

Q: What’s something you learned while at ASU Law — in the classroom or otherwise — that surprised you or changed your perspective?

A: Academically, energy law and policy is one of the courses currently influencing my career interest. Prior to ASU Law, I had limited or no understanding of energy law and policy. Within one semester, ASU Law enhanced my understanding. Energy law and policy is now an influence on a new career path interest for me.

Essentially, I have been reorientated in my understanding of global peace and security. Meaning, thinking of global peace and security as the "silence of guns" is only a tiny fraction of the concept of peace and security on our planet today. Several issues worth considering for peace and security include, but are not limited to, the environment, immigration, energy and social reforms that inform law and policy.

Q: Why did you choose ASU Law?

A: After looking for a law school in and around Arizona, ASU Law caught my interest because of the global outlook of its study programs. I found in ASU Law a career program I have always dreamt of: international rule of law and security.

Q: Which professor taught you the most important lesson at ASU Law?

A: After going through the entire program, I have developed more interest in global energy law and policy, as it feeds into almost all other areas I have studied at ASU Law. Professor Troy Rule is the one to thank for that.

Q: What’s the best piece of advice you’d give to those still in school?

A: I recognize that each student’s context may be different, just as mine was. As a husband and father of two, my passion and commitment were a major driving force. That strength came from the fact that my study area was a choice that matched my career goal. To succeed at ASU Law, one must be curious and cultivate time management skills.

Q: What are your plans after graduation?

A: My plan after graduation is to seek a place in society where I can contribute to efforts promoting global security from a socio-legal point of view through efforts in promoting sustainable energy mechanisms and protecting the environment.

Q: If someone gave you $40 million to solve one problem on our planet, what would you tackle?

A: I will invest in renewable energy generation.

Written by Crystal Jimenez