Every summer, Catholic Law students immerse themselves in a range of hands-on professional experiences, enhancing their understanding of the law and honing practical skills through externships. To support students pursuing public service or pro bono placements—often unpaid yet immensely valuable—Catholic Law offers summer stipends. The summer of 2024 was no exception, with students sharing their insightful experiences below.
O'Brien Summer Fellowship
Joseph Bedortha '25
This past summer, I had the incredible opportunity to intern with the Attorney General of Maryland. Working directly under a Deputy Attorney General, I contributed to a range of projects, including housing voucher programs, eminent domain policy, and the newly established Department of Just Communities, which aims to address past discrimination in Maryland's housing sector.
The stipend I received served as a stabilizing force throughout the summer, allowing me to work passionately with the assurance of financial security. This support enabled me to cultivate a well-rounded life outside of my internship, affording me the time to pursue personal projects, hobbies, and responsibilities without the stress of seeking supplemental income. Most importantly, the stipend allowed me to fully immerse myself in my work, enabling me to concentrate on research projects and drafting assignments that directly benefited Maryland’s communities.
Amal Berrada '26
Over the course of two months, I collaborated closely with two parental defense attorneys. The first attorney I worked with specializes in cases involving infants and young children, which aligns perfectly with my area of interest. Through this experience, I gained valuable insights into parental defense by engaging in discovery, filing pre-trial motions, and attending various adjudication and disposition hearings.
As I familiarized myself with the pertinent family law, I observed that the ambiguous legal standard of "protecting the best interest of children" in "child in need of assistance" cases often became obscured during trials, influenced by arbitrary factors. In response, I developed a guiding legal memorandum for our office that highlighted the importance and benefits of reunifying newborns with their mothers, particularly in cases where the mother struggles with substance use disorders. Utilizing existing research and case law, I demonstrated that maintaining a reunification plan fosters faster recovery for both substance-exposed infants and their mothers.
During the latter half of my internship, I attended more complex termination of parental rights trials, which allowed me to increase my client interactions. I took the lead in conducting client interviews, preparing for trials, and contributing to the development of arguments for closing statements.
Trevor Esper '26
This summer, I had the opportunity to work at the Virginia Office of the Attorney General (OAG), where I engaged with various legal issues and deepened my understanding of Virginia's government. During my time at the OAG, I contributed to in-house memos for diverse practice groups, including criminal appeals, major crimes, public safety, and legislation. I also assisted with pre-investigation legal analyses for potential criminal cases, which proved to be a highly rewarding experience. Additionally, I played a role in drafting legislation that will be voted on in the upcoming session.
One of the most fulfilling aspects of my internship was learning from dedicated attorneys who are passionate about helping victims and ensuring justice is served. I truly appreciated the recognition for my contributions. The stipend I received was invaluable for my family and me, especially as we welcomed a newborn this summer, helping to alleviate some of the stress during my wife’s maternity leave. This support enabled me to pursue an internship without financial strain, an opportunity I otherwise might not have had.
Andrea Quinan '26
This summer, I had the privilege of interning at the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) within the Office of the General Counsel, specifically in the General Law Division, Claims and Employment, and the Fiscal, Information, and Procurement Branches. During my tenure, I engaged in legal research and writing across various areas, including medical malpractice, government contracts, and employment law. As I wrap up my internship at HHS, I leave with a renewed passion for government work, particularly in government contracts law and medical malpractice litigation. I also emerged with three writing samples in distinct legal fields and established a valuable network of contacts at HHS who are willing to serve as references for my future endeavors.
I wholeheartedly recommend this internship to all rising 1Ls. I am immensely grateful to Fr. O’Brien and the selection committee for awarding me the O’Brien Fellowship, which made this unpaid opportunity possible. I am confident that my career trajectory has been significantly enhanced as a result.
After my workday, I commenced my fellowship with The Fund for American Studies (TFAS), which proved to be even more demanding than my internship. The TFAS Fellowship consisted of four key components: 1) Peer Networking, 2) Coursework, 3) Professional Development, and 4) Judicial Networking. My experience in the TFAS Fellowship was transformative. The closing ceremony, featuring former Vice President Mike Pence as the guest of honor and keynote speaker, perfectly encapsulated a summer filled with hard work, friendships, and connections that will undoubtedly propel my career further than I ever imagined.
Between my internship at HHS and the TFAS Fellowship, I had a remarkable 1L summer. I gained invaluable insights into Washington, D.C., Originalism, politics, and the legal profession. I sharpened my skills in research, writing, networking, studying, commuting, and balancing work and life commitments. Once again, I am profoundly thankful to the O’Brien Fellowship for funding a summer that has laid a solid foundation for my legal career in public service.
Nikitha Zacharia '25
This summer, I had the privilege of clerking for Judge Robert J. Conrad at the United States District Court for the Western District of North Carolina. Judge Conrad and his exceptional team of clerks curated a diverse range of assignments in administrative, criminal, and civil law for us to tackle. Each day, we had the opportunity to observe court proceedings, attend hearings, and engage with local attorneys. I am deeply grateful for the O'Brien Fellowship, which made it possible for me to pursue this incredible opportunity away from home.
Students for Public Interest Law Stipend
Dylan Celentano '25
This past summer, I had the privilege of working with the Office of the Counsel to the Inspector General (OCIG) at the Social Security Administration Office of the Inspector General (SSA-OIG). As a law clerk at OCIG, I engaged in legal research and drafted memoranda on a diverse range of topics, including fraud, employment, contracts, audits, and other matters related to administrative law. My work encompassed issues such as appropriations, disclosures under the Freedom of Information Act and the Privacy Act, enforcement of civil monetary penalties authorized by the Social Security Act, and whistleblower protection. I am honored to have been awarded the Students for Public Interest Law (SPIL) Stipend, which has greatly enhanced my ability to pursue a career in public service.
Emily Morgan '26
During the summer of 2024, I had the opportunity to intern at the Fairfax Commonwealth Attorney's Office, which handles all misdemeanor and felony prosecutions, as well as juvenile delinquency matters under the Code of Virginia within Fairfax County. I contributed to the preparation of various court appearances in the General District Court, Circuit Court, and Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court. I had the chance to observe a range of proceedings, including bond motions, arraignments, preliminary hearings, sentencing, traffic court, the veterans docket, and even a murder trial. This experience not only allowed me to apply my legal research and writing skills in a practical setting, but it also ensured that no two days were the same. It was a privilege to serve in my hometown and gain insights into the criminal justice system of Fairfax County. My family and I are deeply grateful to SPIL for making this invaluable experience possible.
Alexa Rivas '26
This summer, I had the privilege of serving as a judicial intern for Judge Laura Cordero at the D.C. Superior Court in the Tax and Probate division. This invaluable opportunity, facilitated by the Hispanic Bar Association, provided me with hands-on experience that significantly deepened my understanding of the judicial process.
During my time at the court, I engaged in a variety of tasks, including observing court proceedings, conducting legal research, and drafting orders for the Judge. I even had the chance to draft a motion for summary judgment. These experiences allowed me to witness the delicate balance judges must maintain between applying the law and ensuring fairness and justice, especially in cases that profoundly affect individuals and families.
One of the most enriching aspects of the internship was the opportunity to participate in summer lunches hosted by the Hispanic Bar Association. These gatherings brought together judges from all levels of the judicial system, as well as representatives from law firms and non-profit organizations. Engaging with these professionals enabled me to explore various legal career paths and gain insights from experts in the field. Notable individuals we had the honor of meeting included D.C. Attorney General Brian L. Schwalb, associates from Latham & Watkins, attorneys from the Public Defender’s Office, and Judges Rudolph Contreras and Ana Reyes from the U.S. District Court for D.C., along with Chief Justice Josey-Herring of the D.C. Superior Court.
These interactions underscored the critical role of public interest law in ensuring access to justice for all members of society. Our discussions highlighted how public interest law serves as a vital mechanism for addressing systemic inequalities and safeguarding the rights of marginalized communities. This experience has further solidified my commitment to pursuing a career in public interest law.
I am especially grateful to the Students for Public Interest Law (SPIL) and the stipend I received, which enabled me to remain in D.C. and seize this remarkable internship opportunity. I appreciate the guidance and support from SPIL, and I look forward to continuing my journey in the legal field with a focus on contributing to the public good.
Squire Patton Boggs Foundation Fellowship
Alexa Cahill '26
This summer, I had the remarkable opportunity to serve as a Law Clerk for the United States Senate Budget Committee's Oversight and Investigations Unit. In this role, I conducted extensive research and writing assignments, organized Senate roundtables, and collaborated with a team of attorneys on ongoing investigations and oversight initiatives. I am thrilled to share that the Unit has offered me a fall externship, allowing me to continue learning through new projects and further develop my skills as a legal professional.
Additionally, my position as a Squire Patton Boggs (SPB) Public Policy Fellow alleviated financial burdens, enabling me to focus on my responsibilities. The SPB Foundation fellowship also enriched my internship experience by providing mentorship, facilitating opportunities to share and present my professional work, and connecting me with outstanding legal scholars from across the nation.
Alexa Finkelstein '26
This summer, I had the opportunity to intern at the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office in my home state of New Jersey, where I gained invaluable experience by observing and collaborating with seasoned attorneys. This incredible experience was made possible by the generous support of the Squire Patton Boggs Foundation (SPBF), which enabled me to pursue my dreams in the Public Policy sector and assist crime victims in my local community. SPBF provided not only financial support for this endeavor but also connected me with a remarkable network of fellows from across the nation, allowing us to share our experiences. Additionally, I was paired with two mentors who offered invaluable advice and insights as I prepare for my future career.