From March 9–13, three law students spent their spring break interning with the Catholic Charities Immigration Team. Throughout the week, they engaged in client work, legal research and the day-to-day realities of practicing immigration law. Their time in Denver offered each student a meaningful look at both the legal processes involved and the human stories behind every case.
Vanessa, a student from St. Mary’s University School of Law in Texas, shared how much she appreciated the warm, supportive environment created by the staff.“The team here is very nice. They’re very welcoming. They are very much willing to help us out if we have any questions. Just going over the process of naturalization and how work permits work for immigrants or refugees that are coming here to America.”
Sofia, who also attends St. Mary’s School of Law, began the week unsure of what to expect but quickly saw the depth of the work involved. “I’m learning a lot. I had no idea what to expect when I came to immigration refugee work. Just going through the caseload and seeing everybody’s stories has been very eye-opening to the process.” As the week went on, she said the experience only deepened. “It’s been amazing… I’m just happy to learn more. I really appreciate all the work that Tracy and everybody here has been giving us and letting us sit in on meetings.”
Tracy Harper is an attorney on the Catholic Charites Immigration team. She helped guide the interns throughout their time with the ministry. Tracy’s involvement made this year especially meaningful. She typically hosts one intern annually from her alma mater, Roger Williams University School of Law in Rhode Island, so welcoming Arianna felt like continuing a tradition she values. This year became unique when two students from St. Mary’s reached out directly to Catholic Charities volunteer coordinator asking if they could join as well. With that request, the team expanded the opportunity and welcomed all three students for a full week of hands-on learning.
Arianna, the student from Roger Williams, said the experience came alive the moment she met with clients. “It’s really great to sit in on client consultations and see how their experiences are different from one another and to see the files come to life.”
Learning alongside an attorney who attended the same university also added a meaningful personal connection to her week.
By the end of the internship, all three students said they truly enjoyed their time with Catholic Charities Immigration Ministry and would recommend the experience to others.
To learn more about Catholic Charities Immigration ministry or support their mission, click here. To learn more about volunteer opportunities at across Catholic Charities ministries, click here.