“ This rewarding opportunity has expanded my comprehension of global constitutional law and fostered a multicultural outlook.”
—Karen Dayana Mosquera Palacios ’23
at the United Nations’ International Law Commission (ILC) in Geneva, Switzerland. Professor Grossman’s membership in the ILC provides students with unprecedented access to the Draſting Committee, where they contribute to the development of new norms and standards in international law, applying their classroom theories to real-world scenarios.
Marta Treviño Leyva ’23 of Mexico expressed how participating in practicum classes with Professor Grossman was a life- changing experience.
“Taking the UN-ILC Practicum opened my eyes to a whole new world of practice opportunities and community impact,” she said. “Also, working on the International and Constitutional Law Project has been a fantastic way of learning the interaction of international law principles in domestic legislation.”
Reflecting on her participation in the International Law Commission, Natalie Landau from South Africa described it as a transformative experience as she witnessed the development of international law behind closed doors, explored global diplomacy, and engaged with eminent international experts and policymakers.
The Kovler Project Against Torture is dedicated to combating torture and advocating for human rights. Students working on this project collaborate closely with leading experts, members of the United Nations Committee Against Torture (UN CAT), and international organizations. Under Professor Grossman’s guidance, they research, document, and develop strategies to prevent and respond to torture from an international perspective, equipping themselves with the skills and knowledge necessary to become advocates for change.
“Thank you for making UN CAT such a great experience and allowing me to participate in this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” James Ollen-Smith ’11 said in a message to Professor Grossman.
“I hope to carry on the mission you instilled in all of us, and to draw more people to the cause.”
The International and Constitutional Law Experience offers students a comprehensive understanding of the interplay between international and constitutional law. Professor Grossman created the project aſter being elected as vice president of the Comite de Admisibilidad—a 14-member type of Constitutional Court in Chile responsible for determining whether draſt articles to be submitted to a referendum comply with one or more of the 12 democratic principles.
International student Karen Dayana Mosquera Palacios ’23 from Colombia emphasized the enlightening experience of being a research assistant for Professor Grossman in the Constitutional and International Comparative Law project.
“This rewarding opportunity has expanded my comprehension of global constitutional law and fostered a multicultural outlook,” she said. “It has further ignited my passion for the field, shaping my trajectory as a student and future legal professional.” “Working on the international and comparative constitutional law project with Professor Grossman and the Center for Human Rights and Humanitarian Law was an honor,” said Nicole Ledesma ’23 who served as project manager for the Chilean project. “This project provides students with a unique and hands- on opportunity to delve into international law and work on a tangible output that will be used by experts in the field. Professor Grossman’s enthusiasm in involving WCL students in creative and substantive ways is a true asset!”
AUWCL’s programs attract a diverse group of students from various cultural, educational, and professional backgrounds, fostering a vibrant learning community where lively debates challenge conventional thinking.
“The significance of these programs lies in their ability for students to become agents of change in a pluralistic environment,” Grossman said. “Through real-world opportunities, students enhance their legal skills while cultivating empathy, resilience, and a deep understanding of human rights and constitutional principles. They graduate equipped with the knowledge and tools to make a real difference in the lives of individuals affected by torture, human rights abuses, and constitutional challenges.”
AMERICAN UNIVERSITY WASHINGTON COLLEGE OF LAW 33
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