As a student pursuing a career in environmental law, this experience was an ideal opportunity for me to gain exposure to the environmental law field. I am also an Indiana native, so CLC is especially significant to me being the only pro bono public interest law firm dedicated to conservation law in Indiana. Being able to witness CLC’s dedication to protecting and preserving the state of Indiana and beyond was truly inspiring. Every single person at CLC is deeply motivated by this shared goal, and it is palpable.
During my summer spent with CLC, I was able to advance support and systems development while also gaining experience with legal case management systems and operational designs. I also continued to develop my legal research and writing skills by translating CLC’s legal work into accessible, engaging content for broad audiences. This experience also provided me with insight into nonprofit fundraising and communications strategy, showing me the value of a legal degree in a variety of areas. The mentorship, guidance, and advice I received throughout helped me gain confidence and develop my skills for the legal world.
Some of my favorite moments from this summer with CLC were meeting some of the people within the Sentinel Landscape Partnership and learning about the impressive Southern Indiana Sentinel Landscape during the fourth annual site visit. Translating CLC’s legal work and pertinent legal topics was challenging but also rewarding as I learned and developed these skills. I also enjoyed partaking in planning and preparing for CLC’s retreat at the end of July. During the retreat I was able to reflect on my work with CLC over the summer and saw just how united this team is toward conservation efforts.
This summer left me eager and energized to come back as a student in the Conservation Law Clinic this school year, where I will continue to develop real-world experience in environmental and conservation law.
