Case by Case, Step by Step: A Journey Through Law and Leadership

The interns woke up energized and eager to dive into another day of hands-on learning and meaningful connection. As they made their way to breakfast, the air was filled with anticipation, friendly chatter, and excitement for what lay ahead.

The morning began with a split session between case groups. Interns assigned to Case A met with Brandi Harden and their team leads to unpack the details of their assigned case, reviewing evidence, posing critical questions, and outlining a working timeline. Meanwhile, Case B participated in a compelling lecture by Art Swift, who spoke about ethics and the vital role professionalism plays in the legal field. Afterward, the groups switched, ensuring everyone had both practical experience and exposure to key legal principles.

Mid-morning, all interns reconvened for an insightful session led by Dr. TaLisa Carter, who introduced the foundations of criminology. Her presentation provided valuable context for the legal system and sparked thoughtful conversation among the students.

After lunch, interns transitioned into their congressional advocacy groups for the first time. These groups began brainstorming topics for Thursday’s lobbying presentations—discussing potential bills, exploring policy challenges, and diving into research. The room buzzed with ideas and energy as teams collaborated and shaped their advocacy goals.

The afternoon continued with a set of enriching lectures. One session focused on public speaking techniques, providing interns with tools to effectively communicate their arguments and ideas. This was followed by presentations from Gerald Collind and Rich Gibson, who drew from their experiences in prosecution to offer real-world perspectives on legal careers and courtroom dynamics.

As the day wound down, interns gathered for a relaxing dinner, sharing laughs, swapping stories, and reflecting on everything they had learned. In the evening, they ventured out for another round of Georgetown Exploration, taking in the neighborhood’s historic charm, grabbing snacks, and enjoying some free time together.

The day ended with a sense of inspiration and momentum. As the interns returned to their dorms and prepared for the next day, they carried with them a deeper understanding of the legal system, stronger connections with their peers, and a growing passion for the work ahead.