Internship Location: Washington DC
Organization Type: Nonprofit
Policy Areas: Social Justice, Justice System policy
I interned at DC Witness, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting transparency in the legal system, for a semester. It was an enriching experience that provided deep insights into the workings of the judicial process. My primary role involved attending daily court proceedings, reporting on cases, and writing factual, unbiased articles. This internship offered the perfect opportunity to apply the skills I developed in my courses, particularly in objective reporting and data management. The flexibility of the role, which included time spent both in the courthouse and writing back at the office, was a refreshing change from a typical 9-5 job. I found the commitment to impartiality and transparency in the legal system inspiring, and I appreciated the variety of tasks that kept the work engaging. The experience also clarified my career aspirations. While I am passionate about law, I realized that I do not want to focus solely on litigation. Instead, I am drawn to roles that offer a blend of fieldwork and office work. The diverse career paths I was exposed to, including defense lawyers, prosecutors, judges, and law clerks, provided valuable insights into the legal field. I highly recommend this internship to anyone interested in legal reporting and promoting transparency in the judicial system. The team at DC Witness is dedicated and supportive, offering a valuable and impactful experience. If you are proactive and show your interest, the organization will provide opportunities to deepen your understanding and take on more responsibilities, enhancing your overall experience.