Celebrating Muslim Heritage: ODEIB Feature
Nabil Hamka, 2L, did not know many attorneys going up. A first-generation law student, his father was able to introduce him to a few metro-Detroit attorneys. “Once I analyzed my strengths, I felt both a moral and a religious obligation to choose a career in with I can make a difference,” he explained.
Hamka’s first application to Detroit Mercy Law resulted in a waitlist decision, and when a seat didn’t become available for him, he had to decide if he wanted to reapply the next year. “During a pilgrimage taken during the year between my first and second application, I followed the message from God to wait and apply again for the next admissions cycle,” he said.
Hamka is currently the president of the Muslim Law Student Association (MLSA). MLSA is open to all students, with the goal of providing a supportive environment for those committed to their religion. Upcoming events include the Muslim Women in the Law event, and Iftar dinner for all law school students. “I believe hosting these events for the whole school is important. Having different stories, different perspectives that people bring to the table, that's how you get things done.”
Zaineb-Stalene Al-Dhalimi, 2L, is a first-generation Muslim American. She did not know any Muslim attorney’s growing up, however she decided to pursue a career in law, after watching her father’s success in real estate and his support from his attorney.
Being raised by both an Immigrant and a parent from the foster-care system taught her the importance of dedication and hard work. “I wanted to pursue a career in law to make a positive impact on low-income communities. I learned an immense amount from my dad, including that hard work pays off. He always said that working hard proves you are meant to be in spaces others say you might not belong.”
Al-Dhalimi says her father’s words drove her to network and use her connections to get an interview for her first internship in a law office. “They’ve also carried me through my time at Detroit Mercy Law, especially my involvement in the Muslim Law Student Association,” she explained. “My religious beliefs have taught me to stay on path even when it’s hard.” Al-Dhalimi currently serves as the Vice President of the Muslim Law Student Association (MLSA).