Hometown: Huntington Beach, CA

Major: Political Science & Philosophy

Minor: History of Law & Policy

Internship placement: Investigative Intern for the Special Litigation Division at the Public Defender Service for the District of Columbia

Why did you decide to do Michigan in Washington?

I decided to do the Michigan in Washington program to gain hands-on, legal work experience before graduation. The opportunity to directly work and network with bright legal professionals who are passionate about public service and criminal justice reform has been an invaluable part of my college career as a Wolverine.

What do you do during a typical day at your internship?

I assist with post-conviction appeals cases by conducting interviews with clients and people of interest, researching and drafting memos on poor prison conditions, studying legal settlements, and helping craft mitigation reports and appeals motions that are used in court.

What’s something that you’re proud of that you’ve done at your internship so far?

While at my internship, my proudest accomplishment has been my successful effort to help my legal team get an incarcerated client transferred out of the high-security federal penitentiary system. The client is now being housed at the DC Jail, where they are able to meet with their friends, family members, and attorneys on a more regular basis.

How has your skillset evolved or changed since you began working on this internship? Is your internship in person? How do you think it has changed ever since the pandemic began?

This internship has pushed me to become a clearer legal writer, a more effective communicator, and someone who can flexibly respond to a variety of issues on a moment’s notice. Learning how to work with a diverse range of teammates in a cohesive manner has been one of my greatest takeaways from my time in Washington. My internship has a hybrid format which has allowed me to participate in trials, attend disciplinary hearings for the police, visit clients in prison, and connect with members of the community through in-depth interviews.

What advice would you give to a student interested in Michigan in Washington?

I strongly recommend applying to the program to give yourself the opportunity to expand your professional horizons. No matter what field or topic you are interested in, Washington has no shortage of valuable opportunities and resources that will allow you to take the next step in your career.