2025 Summer Public Interest Fellow

How would you describe your experience?

My experience has been truly eye-opening. I've gained a much deeper understanding of just how complex and challenging the legal system can be-especially for those who are incarcerated and seeking a second chance. Representing clients in parole and resentencing matters under laws like the Domestic Violence Survivors Justice Act has shown me how difficult it is to navigate the system and advocate effectively, even when the law is on your side. I've seen firsthand how much time, care, and strategy goes into every step of this work. The clinic also pushed me to think critically about how the law functions in practice and how advocacy extends far beyond legal analysis. I don't believe I would have had this level of responsibility through any other internship. It's been a humbling and powerful experience that has deepened my commitment to criminal justice reform.

What impacted you the most?

What impacted me the most was hearing the stories of my clients and learning about the circumstances that led to their incarceration. It reinforced the reality that every case file represents a person whose life has been shaped by complex, often unseen factors. Too often, the public forms opinions based solely on the crime without understanding the underlying context, which can lead to unfair stigma and judgment. Many of these individuals have experienced significant trauma and hardship and deserve to be seen with compassion and dignity. The trust our clients placed in us, despite feeling unheard for so long, was very impactful and motivating. Being able to offer not only legal advocacy, but also a sense of hope that someone was finally listening and fighting for them, made the experience meaningful. It reminded me that legal work can be a powerful force of healing and restoration when it centers the humanity of those we serve.

What would you like to share with our donors?

I would like to thank the donors to the Clarence J. Sundram Fellowship for making this experience possible. I truly don't believe I would have had the opportunity to engage in such meaningful, hands-on work through any other internship. This clinic offers a unique experience that not many students or aspiring attorneys get to have. With your support, we aren't just learning the law, we are applying it directly in service of people whose voices are often silenced or ignored. There are few clinics or programs that offer this kind of work, and it is all possible because of our donors. By funding this work, they are driving real change within the legal system, helping it adapt to better serve marginalized communities, and promote reforms that create second chances for those who have been overlooked. Because of them, I was able to grow personally and professionally, and I'm incredibly grateful for the support that made this work possible.