Sarah Vroegop
Summer 2018, Summer 2019
My name is Sarah, and I’m an undergraduate student at Calvin University, studying International Relations and Writing. I’ve been passionate about immigration and refugee issues for a long time, and I stumbled across MIRC’s summer internship opportunity online. I applied on a whim; I’m fortunate I did.
As an summer intern, I was able to complete several administrative tasks around the office, such as compiling briefs for attorneys, filing, contact with caseworkers, and updating of case notes. All these tasks taught me a lot of the nitty-gritty work that goes on behind the scenes in immigration law practice.
At the same time, the attorneys at the office gave me opportunities to get involved in cases. I did in-depth research, completed first drafts of documents, organized parts of clients’ cases, and had the chance to meet some clients and hear their stories. I continue to appreciate the passion that the attorneys at MIRC show for their clients, and I appreciate their willingness to welcome new learners like myself into the office environment.
I echo Emma when I say that interning at MIRC was a great experience for me. Not only did I learn a ridiculous amount about immigration law, but I feel as though my understanding of our culture and social justice expanded. This was purely because the attorneys and staff gave me chances to grow, and I got to work alongside a fantastic group of fellow interns.
I think the work MIRC does for the Michigan community is invaluable. The dedication the staff at MIRC has towards an often overlooked, neglected, or outright persecuted population gives me hope that more justice can be realized in Michigan everyday, for everyone. For anyone interested in learning the ins and outs of immigration law, or for anyone who cares about the rights of immigrants and refugees, I’d recommend an internship at MIRC.
