Tuesday in the Criminal Law & Trial Internship

Today the interns woke up bright and early as the staff walked through the halls in silly costumes to greet them. The interns had a delicious breakfast and some even went on a Starbucks run! After eating, everyone gathered in the hallway to walk over to meet the client they would be working with. The interns had the opportunity to review case files, examine legal documents, and practice witness preparation as they asked their client questions about themselves and the incident. Together, the interns then created a timeline of events using the case files and answers the client gave to their questions. Everyone was eager to contribute to the conversation, with a sea of hands raised and unique perspectives on the case.

Leavey Hall was filled with booming laughter and smiles as the interns enjoyed their lunches and spoke with their new friends. Dr. Talisa Carter then challenged the interns to think deeper about framing of contributions and how crime is born with her lecture on an Introduction to Criminology. Many of the interns also had the opportunity to ask questions about what prison is like as Dr. Talisa Carter spent some time working as a Corrections Officer before becoming tenured at American University. 

Art Smith then discussed the fundamentals of public speaking, even demonstrating himself how to adapt a story to your audience. The interns then had the opportunity to collaborate in groups and present their own passionate speeches to each other, using all of the tips that they learned within the lecture. 

Capitol Hill preparations began after this as the interns met their group members that they would be attending a congressional meeting with in order to advocate for a bill of their choice. The room lit up with smiles and energy as everyone was eager to get to know each other and determine which bills interested them the most. 

The interns were torn away from their congressional work as they walked to Leavey to eat their delectable dinners. And after this, the interns had the opportunity to hear from the United States Attorney’s Office as a prosecutor discussed the career path of an attorney for the Department of Justice. Everyone was on the edge of their seats and many of them even stayed after the lecture to ask more questions and speak with Gerald Collins.

After this, the interns then scattered off to Georgetown Exploration where they enjoyed Insomnia Cookies, boba tea, ice cream, or a trip to CVS. Everyone came back to the dorms grinning with happy memories and fell right asleep to prepare for the next day ahead.