2025 Summer Public Interest Fellow
Volunteer Organization
Hon. John L. Sinatra, Jr., United States District Court for the Western District of New York, Buffalo, NY
Brooke Conly '27
Class of 1979 1L Summer Public Interest Award
How would you describe your experience?
As a judicial intern for Judge Sinatra, I had the invaluable opportunity to gain first-hand exposure to the federal court system. In chambers, I conducted legal research, contributed to writing a Social Security Appeal opinion, and discussed the cases and proceedings with Judge Sinatra and his clerks. This was a great way to gain a deeper understanding of the inner workings of the federal court system while becoming more familiar with the litigation process. The opportunity to observe various court proceedings, including Plea Hearings, Sentencings, Motion Hearings, and a Jury Trial revealed the importance of diligent, fervent advocacy. This internship has provided me with valuable insight, in and out of the courtroom, that will continue to influence my legal career for years to come.
What impacted you the most?
The most impactful part of this internship was witnessing the strong influence that the court system has on individuals and the community. Watching numerous attorneys in the courtroom revealed the importance of conducting thorough legal research and diligently advocating for every client. Observing court proceedings daily allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of the law's application in various civil and criminal matters. I also found it incredibly valuable to speak with and learn from Judge Sinatra and his law clerks. Gaining insight into the judicial process and the careful, balanced deliberation that goes into each decision has shaped the way I will frame and engage with legal matters in the future.
What would you like to share with our donors?
I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the donor of the Mary J. Dowd Fellowship. My invaluable experience as a judicial intern was made possible by your support and generosity. I look forward to applying the skills and knowledge I gained this summer throughout my legal career. Thank you for allowing me to gain this federal court experience and for making this challenging, enlightening summer possible.