Digital Scholar Spotlight: Arianna Roberts
Arianna Roberts is a second-year law student at New York Law School with a strong interest in corporate, commercial, and privacy law. Arianna was drawn to law school when she developed an interest in how legal frameworks shape businesses, technology, and infrastructure while pursuing her undergrad degree. This has led to her completing various law related coursework at Baruch University such as Business Law and Antitrust Law. Arianna’s goal is to use her acquired legal skills to navigate complex regulatory environments and drive impactful changes in the business sectors.
Q&A
What bought you to law school?
My journey to law school was driven by a passion for problem-solving and an interest in the legal and regulatory structures that underpin industries. Before deciding to pursue law, I was particularly fascinated by how businesses and governments interact through regulation, compliance, and policymaking. I wanted to be in a profession that allows me to work at the intersection of law, business, and public policy—where legal expertise directly influences how industries operate and evolve. As I progressed in my legal education, I became increasingly drawn to highly regulated sectors, such as privacy and technology.
What interested you in the Digital Scholars Program?
I chose the Digital Scholars program for multiple reasons. I wanted to explore privacy law and how broadband access intersects with technology, policy, and equity. The program offers a unique opportunity to explore these issues while developing practical legal and analytical skills. Additionally, the program will aid me in sharpening my legal writing with the guidance and mentorship of the program director, Michael Santorelli. Being part of this blog allows me to engage with these issues critically, contribute to meaningful discussions, and deepen my understanding of the legal frameworks that govern this essential industry. The program offers a unique opportunity to explore these issues while developing practical legal and analytical skills. By joining this program, I saw an opportunity to combine my legal education with my interest in technology and regulatory frameworks, while also honing my research and writing skills on issues that have real-world impact.
What have you learned so far about broadband? And what do you want to learn about next?
The ever-evolving landscape of telecommunications and broadband regulation presents unique legal challenges that shape how we connect and communicate. From issues surrounding digital equity and the digital divide, I’ve come to appreciate how legal and policy decisions directly impact accessibility, competition, and innovation in the telecom sector. The intersection of federal, state, and international regulatory frameworks also makes this field particularly dynamic and multifaceted. I look forward to learning more about legal and policy solutions to expand access and affordability, particularly in underserved communities. The rapid expansion of broadband, the challenges of closing the digital divide, and the ongoing debates around net neutrality and competition in the telecom sector make this an exciting and evolving field!
What kind of law would you like to practice after you graduate?
Upon graduation, I hope to pursue a career in regulatory and corporate law, focusing on industries that require a deep understanding of legal compliance, government policy, and infrastructure development. Whether in telecommunications, finance, or another highly regulated sector, I aim to help businesses navigate legal complexities while shaping policies that promote innovation and accessibility. My experience with the Digital Scholars Program at the center for Advanced Communications Law & Policy Institute (ACLP) has reinforced my enthusiasm for this field, and I look forward to continuing my engagement with regulatory law and policy.