Five months away from home, dedicating my second-to-last semester in Washington, DC, before graduating in May 2025, has been an incredible journey. I’ve learned a lot and feel deeply honored to be a SUNY Washington alum. Along the way, I have made lasting friendships, tried new foods, and visited places I never thought I would have the chance to see.
I was deeply grateful for the opportunity to intern with the Office of the Attorney General (OAG) in Washington, DC, serving as a mediator in the Office of Consumer Protection (OCP). My work primarily focused on addressing unfair housing practices, helping individuals escape unsanitary living conditions, and advocating for equal justice for residents of underserved communities. I mediated disputes between landlords and tenants, businesses to businesses and assisted the Assistant Attorneys General in trial preparation. While my primary role was in consumer protection, I was fortunate to work with various divisions across the Office. I also actively managed weekly mediation outreach programs, where we visited local Department of Human Services offices to educate the public on how the OAG can advocate for their rights.
Working alongside dedicated legal professionals, I better understood systemic issues, particularly housing inequality. Contributing to cases like the District of Columbia v. Foster House, I had the chance to engage in investigative work and collaborate on preparing trial materials while witnessing the crucial intersection of law and social justice. The team I worked with humbled me daily with their wisdom, laughter, and the simple pleasure of shared morning coffee runs—memories I will cherish forever.
Dr. Powell and Casey Cappelletti played essential roles in helping all the students adjust, ensuring we felt safe and supported, which was helpful for me since this was my first extended time away from home. Throughout my time in DC, I went to different class outings every Friday with my classmates, which included CNN, the DC Superior Court, the Capitol building, and many more, gaining insightful life lessons from various speakers. These experiences helped me build a strong network.
One of my favorite moments was our conversation with Associate Judge Heidi Pasichow, who presides over Criminal Court at the DC Superior Court and is a humble and kind woman whose words impacted me. She said, “A woman once asked me what I do for a living, and I answered community service.” These words remind me that every role, regardless of scope, is an opportunity to serve and contribute to the greater good.
I am genuinely grateful for the opportunity to intern with the Office of the Attorney General. This experience allowed me to explore a new city, connect with incredible people, and deepen my understanding of policy work. Through the SUNY Washington Internship Program, I learned that sometimes stepping out of your comfort zone isn’t just necessary; it’s life changing. It reminded me that growth often comes from the most unexpected places, and this journey has become a cherished part of my story.