First Reflections—The Season for Gratitude and Giving

• November 01, 2024

• Asha Scielzo , American University Washington College of Law

Fall is my favorite season. Beyond the crisp weather and colorful foliage, I love the whirlwind of the holidays. My family celebrates both Diwali and Christmas, honoring the blend of different cultures and religions that have shaped my multicultural and spiritual identity. I also appreciate this time of year for our intentionality around gratitude and giving. I am grateful for my personal blessings of family, friends, and (generally) good health. As I also reflect on my career and abiding passion for health law, I realize how much our association has given me by serving as my professional home for nearly 25 years. Through AHLA, I have developed substantial knowledge and skills, cultivated purpose and a sense of belonging, and made lifelong friends. This has given me the confidence to be proactive in shaping my career to suit my needs and interests, while also enabling me to help pave the way for others to do the same.