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Member Monday Profile: Noeli Serna

Sidley Austin LLP // Global Finance Associate

As a new Associate, I am primarily learning the foundations of both lending and securitization transactions. Sidley’s finance practice includes a wide variety of deals ranging from asset-based lending arrangements, term asset-backed and mortgage-backed securitizations to representing lenders, investors and borrowers in financing transactions in the entertainment and media industry.

Why you are a member of the WBAI?

I am a member of the WBAI because I truly believe in the power of collaboration, especially among women. As a young attorney, I have many questions and insecurities as I transition from law school to a law firm. The small steps I have taken to make myself comfortable in my new environment are products of conversations I have had with other (typically female) attorneys. Their experiences and wisdom have been invaluable to me, and I want to make sure and continue this dialogue as I delve deeper into my practice. The WBAI creates an amazing space that helps facilitate these conversations among female attorneys.

What you are most looking forward to this fall?

This fall I am most looking forward to finding a new rhythm in my life as I learn to balance work, family, friends and my own personal interests. I am also excited to finally delve into my work and put my intellect into practice.

Tell us a fun fact about you.

My parents immigrated from Mexico, so I am a first generation U.S.-born citizen. I am fluent in Spanish and am the first in my immediate family to graduate from college and now law school. I look forward to seeing my family continue to succeed in their professional endeavors.