Current student, Ananya Gita, spent this past summer interning at NWIRP and shared the following with us about her experience:
How did you find this internship?
In high school, I interned for an immigration lawyer and professor at Seattle University who has remained a strong mentor to me throughout the years. We continue to check in regularly about my career path, and she encouraged me to apply for an internship at NWIRP. She guided me through the preparation process, while I also conducted my own research, and I was very fortunate to be offered the position. I’m incredibly grateful for her support, and that experience reinforced in me the value of mentorship, maintaining a strong network and meaningful connections.
What did you enjoy most about your internship?
As someone interested in law school, public policy, and immigration law, this internship gave me valuable exposure to the kind of work I could see myself pursuing. The most rewarding part of the internship was engaging directly with clients, sponsors, and others connected to cases. I conducted intake interviews, gathered documentation, and researched current immigration policies in the U.S. and abroad to help build stronger cases. These conversations not only strengthened my communication skills but also deepened my understanding of the human side of immigration law. I also worked closely with attorneys on the team, assisting with case preparation and observing how legal strategies are developed in real time. Beyond the legal skills I gained, I valued the opportunity to take on meaningful, hands-on work at such an early stage in my career, which made the experience incredibly impactful.
What did you find challenging?
One of the biggest challenges was balancing the internship with schoolwork and other commitments during the academic year. It forced me to develop strong time management skills, which I’ve continued to use since. Another challenge was learning the legal terminology and practices quickly enough to contribute meaningfully. While overwhelming at first, it ultimately proved rewarding and accelerated my learning.
What advice would you offer to someone who wants to make the most of an internship like yours?
My biggest piece of advice is to manage your time well so you can stay on top of deadlines and be reliable. Equally important is taking initiative even if it feels intimidating at first. Asking for more responsibility, volunteering for tasks and offering up new ideas not only expands your skills but can also help make the most of the opportunity.
