From L to R: Victoria Aghamalian, Jennifer Rodriguez, Waseem Qahoush, Alexa Rivas, and Isabella Santiago

Catholic Law students Victoria Aghamalian (2L), Jennifer Rodriguez (1L), Waseem Qahoush (2L), Alexa Rivas (2L), and Isabella Santiago (2L) participated in the second Migrant Solidarity Mutual Aid (MSMA) Network Legal Aid Immigration clinic held at the law school on Saturday, October 19. This clinic assists individuals facing Asylum and Temporary Protected Status (TPS) issues while providing students with the opportunity to refine their lawyering and interviewing skills under the guidance of experienced volunteers and a supervising attorney, specifically in completing Form I-589 and Form I-821. 

The students found the experience both rewarding and profoundly meaningful. For instance, Alexa Rivas assisted an asylum seeker by translating and completing necessary paperwork. She noted, “Many of the concepts I’ve been learning in law school, such as statutory interpretation and administrative procedure, were directly applicable. This experience reinforced the significance of clear communication and advocacy, particularly when representing vulnerable populations.” 

Similarly, 1L Jennifer Rodriguez aided an immigrant in filling out their asylum application. She reflected, “This experience made me realize how crucial it is to provide assistance to those in need of legal help who cannot afford it. It allowed me to view people through a lens of greater compassion and empathy. Additionally, I gained valuable insights into immigration law and the system itself.”

Students interested in getting involved in pro bono work at Catholic Law School can learn more here or reach out to Rachel Lawrence, Catholic Law’s Associate Director for Pro Bono & Public Interest Career Development, at lawrencera@cua.edu.