Summer Public Interest Fellows 2025

How would you describe your experience?

Spending my summer in the Felony Trials Bureau of the Erie County District Attorney's Office has been an incredible learning experience. I've had the invaluable opportunity to observe a wide range of felony trials and hearings, which gave me firsthand insight into courtroom strategy, evidentiary issues, and trial advocacy. Being able to assist skilled prosecutors gave me a better understanding of the nuances of criminal litigation and the realities of practicing law in a high-stress environment.

What impacted you the most?

The most impactful part of my summer was observing how much work goes into each case before there is a trial. I learned about the many responsibilities prosecutors have outside of trial work. I've learned that initiatives like diversion programs, working with victims and law enforcement, and negotiating pleas are all just as important as a strong presence in the courtroom. Seeing another side to the criminal process has deepened my appreciation for the work that the District Attorney's Office is doing and reinforced my desire to pursue a career where I can contribute meaningfully to the public good, inside and outside the courtroom.

What would you like to share with our donors?

I'm sincerely grateful to Fran and Cindy Letro, who made this fellowship possible. Because of their support, I was able to dedicate myself to this internship and explore a side of legal practice I had only studied in the classroom. This experience has helped me shape my goals and allowed me to use the skills I am developing in law school to contribute to the public good. This experience would not have been possible for me had it not been for this fellowship and I am extremely grateful.