Kailyn Lane '26

My summer at the United States Attorney's Office for the Western District of New York was the best experience I could have hoped for. I worked on many types of research projects for various Assistant United States Attorneys (AUSAs), assisted in drafting legal memoranda, and sat in on various federal court proceedings and depositions. While originally assigned to the Narcotics Division and Civil Division, I was able to do work for the Asset Recovery Division. Being able to complete assignments for the different divisions allowed me to learn about various areas of law. In addition to the work aspect, I went on a plethora of trips visiting locations like the Rainbow Bridge, the Batavia Federal Detention Facility (I.C.E.), and Erie County S.W.A.T. At each of these locations, we learned about their operational aspects, as well as their work with the USAO.

The most impactful aspect of my summer was getting to talk with and learn from Assistant U.S. Attorneys. I learned so much and will carry all that knowledge with me for the entirety of my legal career. I loved to see how ideas popped into their head, how they were quick on their feet in court, and how they broke down complex legal issues. Also, all of them were willing to discuss their different pathways in the profession and the challenges they have faced. Many of the AUSAs I worked with have become mentors to me.

I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Douglas W. Dimitroff '89 & Dr. Grace D. Dimitroff. Their assistance made my experience at the United States Attorney's Office possible. Thanks to this fellowship, I was able to solely focus on my work at the USAO to ensure I had the most productive summer.