Securing summer internships can always be a source of stress and anxiety for college students. Luckily, Princeton has specific programs and resources dedicated to facilitating students in the internship acquisition process. This summer, I had the privilege of interning for two Miami judges through Princeton’s PICS program. PICS (Princeton Internships in Civic Service) is a program through the Pace Center for Civic Engagement that pairs students with summer internships for non-profit organizations. As an intended pre-law student, I have a vested interest in civic service In May, I excitedly embarked to Miami for my internship with the Eleventh Judicial Circuit.
My ten-week internship involved work for two judges in the complex business litigation division of civil court and in criminal court. Over the course of my internship, I conducted legal research, sat in on hearings and trials, and drafted legal memos. I worked alongside other judicial interns in graduate school and law school. There was never a dull moment at work, especially when an arraignment of former President Trump took place at the federal courthouse a block away from my work building.
During the course of my internship, I was living at the University of Miami, surrounded by a vibrant community of other student interns from all over the world. I spent my weekends exploring the area, visiting the beaches, and tasting the delicious Cuban food of Little Havana. Over time, I formed a close-knit community with my coworkers and living partners.
Judicial internships for undergraduate students are challenging to come by, and I am extremely grateful to Princeton alumni and programs that made this experience possible for me. I was able to gain valuable perspectives into the work of judges, formed lasting connections and friendships with the wonderful people I met this summer.