Administrator Spotlight: Jessica Shah

Human Resources Manager

Tell us the story of how you came to work at NYU Law. Were you always in your current position?

I was a student in the HR Management master's degree program at NYU and also a student worker in the HR department of the NYU Bobst Library. I saw a full-time HR assistant position available at NYU Law, and the director of Libraries HR had encouraged me to apply.  It has been history ever since! One of the wonderful things about NYU Law is that we recognize talent and often promote from within. I appreciated the encouragement to apply to various promotional opportunities as they arose, which allowed me to move up to my current position as HR manager.

What’s a typical day for you like? 

My typical day involves recruitment tasks—editing and posting jobs, screening resumes, interviewing candidates, checking references, and sending offer letters—and also new-hire orientations and separation meetings, HRIS transactions, creating reports, answering various questions, and liaising with NYU HR, Benefits and Payroll. Depending on the time of year, I also work on special events and projects. 

What’s the most challenging thing about what you do? And what’s the most rewarding? 

What is most challenging is keeping up with employment laws and regulations as well as NYU policies, which can change frequently. Double checking is key! Filling vacancies for departments so they can fully function, meeting new hires and helping create a smooth onboarding experience, organizing our Annual Staff Brunch and catching up with staff, and generally resolving employee and student worker issues all give me a great sense of fulfillment.

What do you wish you’d known about the Law School on your first day of working here? 

That no two days are the same and to never make assumptions. New issues/tasks often come up that are unfamiliar and throw me out of my comfort zone. This may cause me stress, and being an introvert doesn't help either. That said, I truly want to do my best every day. I've learned that collaborating and building connections is so important in my work and that I should not be hesitant to reach out to anyone if I have any questions. Everyone is friendly, understanding, and willing to help!

What is your favorite spot on campus, and why? 

In the summer, I like to take a quick stroll across Washington Mews. It's a cobblestone block lined with historic buildings, each building with its own personality. It's a charming little street!

Posted November 2, 2023