2025 Summer Public Interest Fellow

How would you describe your experience?

This summer, I worked as an intern with the Erie County District Attorney's Office, where I participated in a dynamic and well-rounded program that extended far beyond the traditional office setting. While based primarily at Buffalo City Court, I worked closely with Assistant District Attorneys to file legal documents, conduct legal research, and attend arraignments and hearings. I also had the opportunity to observe several trials in Erie County Court, including cases involving charges such as sexual assault, rape, and homicide. Watching these trials-some from start to finish-significantly deepened mine and my co-interns understanding of the criminal justice process. Beyond the courtroom, the internship included presentations and site visits that broadened our perspective on the criminal legal system. As a group, we visited the Erie County Crime Lab, the Erie County Holding Center, and the grand jury chambers, gaining valuable insight into the various stages of investigation and prosecution.

What impacted you the most?

During my time at the Erie County District Attorney's Office, I was most deeply impacted by the individuals we served. When I began this internship, I didn't fully appreciate the vital role prosecutors play in the justice system. Victims often come to the office during some of the most difficult moments of their lives, and it is the prosecution's responsibility to not only advocate for justice but to do so with empathy and sensitivity. I came to understand how profoundly a single charging decision can affect someone's life and how essential it is that prosecutors approach each case with compassion and care. Watching victims receive justice-and witnessing the beginning of their healing process-was one of the most powerful experiences of my legal education so far. Having the opportunity to speak directly with victims and hear their stories deepened my commitment to the work and made me more motivated to show up each day with purpose. Additionally, I was inspired by the young attorneys in the office, who performed their demanding roles with competence, resilience, and humor. Working alongside professionals who were both encouraging and eager to mentor was an incredibly rewarding aspect of my internship.

What would you like to share with our donors?

I can only say thank you. I am truly honored to have been selected as a recipient of the Garry Graber '78 Fellowship. This generous support allowed me to spend my summer working in a public interest position where I felt I was making a real difference in people's lives. Choosing to pursue public interest work was not an easy decision, but the Buffalo Public Interest Law Program gave me the resources and encouragement to follow my passion-serving the public directly and meaningfully. I am so glad I trusted my instincts and accepted this opportunity, which has affirmed my commitment to a career rooted in advocacy and service. I am incredibly grateful to those who make this fellowship possible and who continue to invest in students like me who are eager to use the law for the public good. I know that not only myself, but several of my peers were incredibly grateful and honored to receive a fellowship this summer.