BBA Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Summer Fellowship: End of Summer Reflections 2024

This summer, I had the privilege of being a BBA DEI Legal Intern at the Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office, specifically within the Consumer Protection Division. My role primarily involved legal research and writing, complemented by participation in the AGO intern experience, which included various workshops, training sessions, and the opportunity to meet with AG Campbell.

Working as an intern at the Attorney General’s Office was instrumental in advancing my legal career. It provided me with practical, enriching experiences and exposed me to complex legal issues. I had the invaluable opportunity to learn and develop professional skills from seasoned attorneys. As a first-generation law student, I was previously unaware of the vast array of career paths within the legal profession. My time at the AGO introduced me to the world of public interest and government work and the numerous specialized divisions within the office. Additionally, the office offered valuable networking opportunities that allowed us to connect with attorneys across various divisions. Not only was this beneficial in deepening our understanding of the work being done at the AGO, but also showed us the diverse career paths within all areas of law that brought many to the AGO. Through various seminars and workshops, I learned how to take a deposition, explored clerkship opportunities, and even attended a motion hearing where a judge took the time to speak with the interns afterward.

One of my primary goals this summer was to enhance my legal research and writing skills. During my internship, I was entrusted with new and complex issues that my division was addressing. I conducted in-depth legal research and analysis on laws and policies across different states and counties. This experience allowed me to produce memorandums that the attorneys found highly valuable. It was incredibly fulfilling to take on questions in unfamiliar areas of law and produce work that made a meaningful impact on the issues the AGO is actively addressing to protect the public. Being part of this work made me realize that my contributions do matter and that they can have real-life impact, even if the people affected may never be aware of it.

This summer has been an incredibly rewarding experience, and I am deeply grateful to the Boston Bar Association for its commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in the legal profession. Their dedication to providing paid opportunities like this internship program has been instrumental in my growth and development as a first-generation law student.

This summer, I worked in the General Counsel’s Office for the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination (MCAD). The MCAD is an independent state agency committed to eradicating discrimination in the Commonwealth by enforcing Massachusetts’s antidiscrimination laws.

The responsibilities of the General Counsel’s Office include advising the agency on any and all legal matters, prosecuting cases that result in probable cause determinations and proceed to public hearing on behalf of the Commonwealth, promulgating regulations to promote the agency’s ability to carry out its mission, and crafting public-facing materials to promote compliance with the state’s antidiscrimination laws. For example, this summer, the General Counsel’s Office published updated comprehensive guidelines on Harassment in the Workplace. The guidelines lay out the legal rights of Massachusetts employees, define the various forms of workplace harassment, and instruct employers on best practices for complying with the state’s antidiscrimination laws.

Most of my work this summer involved conducting research and drafting memoranda addressing contemporary issues of law and policy facing the agency. For example, I was given the opportunity to research how Massachusetts’s new data equity law, M.G.L. c. 6A, § 109, will inform how the agency collects data on race and ethnicity. I also considered and reported on how these new collection methods might affect the agency’s ability to achieve its mission of eradicating discrimination. In addition, I was tasked with researching the legislative history of M.G.L. c. 151C, Massachusetts’s Fair Educational Practices Law. As part of this process, I was given the opportunity to visit the Massachusetts Archives to review the legislative packet and governor’s file corresponding to the relevant House Bill.

My time at the MCAD allowed me to gain a solid understanding of Massachusetts’s antidiscrimination laws. Moreover, through programming that allowed interns at the MCAD to hear from various agency department heads, I also developed a clear sense of the inner workings of the MCAD and how it fulfills its mandate of advancing the public interest by eliminating discriminatory practices. As an intern in the General Counsel’s Office, I was given the opportunity to participate in additional programming, which included visiting the Massachusetts Appeals Court to observe the final oral arguments of the summer.

In addition, I made countless connections with brilliant, passionate legal professionals that I feel thankful to be taking with me as I move on from my time at the agency. Finally, I feel that interning at the MCAD was a unique experience that enabled me to see the modern manifestations of discrimination and how the victims of discrimination are disproportionately members of historically marginalized communities. This, in turn, has reinforced my passion and commitment to serve such communities.

This summer, I worked for CPCS in YAD in Roxbury. YAD had just moved to the office we were located in a few weeks before we started, so everyone was getting acclimated to the new space, yet they were very welcoming. I worked directly with a single attorney, Rafael Feliciano Cumbas, who was also the attorney tasked with our training.

During our training, we read cases and discussed them. Rafael told us he was giving us a “crash course in crim pro.” After some training, the legal work I was tasked with included writing motions to suppress, motions to reconsider bail, motions in limine, motions to dismiss, and even a discovery motion. I was also able to go to court to watch hearings, sit through client interviews, and see client intake during duty days.

This experience allowed me to see what it meant to be in court constantly and what courtroom attorneys do day-to-day. This experience solidified my desire to be a litigation attorney.

A professional accomplishment I am particularly proud of was drafting motions in limine for a case going to trial. I remember sitting in the courtroom with my supervisor when he handed me the motions that he planned to argue that morning. I was shocked that the motions were the ones I had sent him the week before, with only a few minor changes. As I watched him argue them before the judge, it felt so exciting to hear him use phrases I had written and citing the case law I had poured over in the previous weeks. At that moment, all the work I had completed over the summer felt real. I saw the importance of being well-versed in case law and the facts of your case, and as an intern or young attorney, taking every assignment that you have seriously. It was exciting and scary simultaneously, but at that moment, I felt instilled with the confidence that I had the skills to become a great attorney.

Finally, my work this summer displayed the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion in the legal profession. Most of our clients were Black and Latinx, but most attorneys were white. Seeing how our clients clicked and opened up to my supervisor was inspiring. It felt as if they trusted him a bit more because they genuinely believed that he understood their life experiences. I talked with a client about their goals and what they wanted to do as they got older. They responded by saying, “I could see myself being a lawyer like Rafael. He really advocates for me. I want to do that for other people.” Listening to them talk about how much of an impact Rafael had on their life and how nice it was seeing people who looked like them in these settings reminded me of the importance of having diverse attorneys in the legal field. It encouraged me to continue to be in these spaces and show our clients that they have people who look like them or have similar life experiences advocating for them. It has become abundantly clear to me that being a diverse lawyer benefits not only the legal profession but also our clients, offering them more opportunities to trust us and encouraging them to seek life paths they may not have considered without encountering diverse lawyers in the process.

This summer, I had the privilege of interning with the Committee for Public Counsel Services (CPCS) Youth Advocacy Division, where I gained invaluable experience in the legal field. CPCS youth advocacy division is dedicated to providing legal counsel to economically disadvantaged children, and my time there significantly expanded my knowledge of the disparities in the justice system while also teaching me how to combat those disparities. Throughout my internship, I was responsible for managing client-attorney relationships, working on critical assignments for our clients, and attending court sessions multiple times each week.

One of the most significant experiences during my internship was the opportunity to work on a Mattis parole case. In January 2024, the Supreme Judicial Court issued the Mattis decision, ruling that sentencing a minor to life in prison without the possibility of parole is unconstitutional. I had the privilege of working closely with a Mattis client, and this experience was both professionally and personally rewarding. Our client’s perspective on life, his caring spirit, and his personal growth are stories I will always cherish. The experience taught me the importance of empathy, dedication, and the impact that legal advocacy can have on someone’s life.

As a first-generation law student with limited practical legal experience prior to this summer, I was fortunate to be paired with an experienced attorney, Sara Atlay, as my mentor. Sara was always mindful of my understanding of legal terms, concepts, and their applications. Her guidance and education on criminal procedure have been incredibly beneficial, and I feel more prepared for my upcoming courses, such as Criminal Procedure and Evidence. Sara’s mentorship has had a lasting impact on my legal education, and I am grateful for the knowledge and skills I gained under her guidance.

One of the most important takeaways from this summer was gaining a glimpse into my future as an aspiring public interest attorney. Working with CPCS provided me with valuable insight into what my post-graduation career might entail. I had the chance to observe and participate in critical aspects of public interest work, such as court procedures, zealous client advocacy, and the obligations owed to the court and the office. These experiences have not only deepened my commitment to pursuing a career in public interest law, but have also equipped me with the skills and understanding necessary to excel in this field.

The experiences I gained this summer were invaluable and will have both short-term and long-term benefits. In the short term, they have provided me with a solid foundation in legal terms, concepts, and procedures, which will undoubtedly help me as I begin my 2L year. In the long term, the practical skills and insights I gained will serve as a solid foundation for my future career as a public interest attorney. This internship has reinforced my passion for advocating for marginalized communities and has given me the confidence to pursue this path with determination and purpose.

As a Boston Bar Association Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Fellow this summer with the Massachusetts Office of the Inspector General (OIG), I had the invaluable opportunity to engage deeply with initiatives aimed at advancing inclusivity within the legal profession. Supported by the Boston Bar Foundation and its partner firms, this fellowship allowed me to connect with a diverse range of professionals dedicated to promoting diversity, driving equity, and fostering inclusivity. My hands-on involvement in various DEI projects and collaboration with committed professionals provided profound insights into the challenges and opportunities of creating a more equitable legal community. This experience also enabled me to reflect on my development as a rising second-year student at Boston University School of Law and consider how I can contribute meaningfully to these goals throughout my legal career.

A significant aspect of the fellowship was the mentorship from my BBA DEI Fellowship advisor. This guidance offered crucial insights into navigating the legal profession as a young lawyer. Their advice on career development and strategies for promoting equity and inclusion helped clarify my professional goals and identify actionable steps to achieve them. This mentorship highlighted the value of a supportive network and significantly influenced my approach to integrating DEI principles into my legal career.

During my internship at the OIG, I also benefited from several mentors. They guided me in researching and drafting memoranda on complex administrative statutes and regulations, with a focus on how these laws impact various communities. Their support deepened my understanding of the need for fairness and equity in legal policies. They encouraged me to apply a DEI perspective to my work, emphasizing that effective legal practice must address the diverse needs of the population it serves.

A highlight of the fellowship was attending BBA seminars and networking events, which allowed me to connect with prominent figures from across the legal field. These events provided insights from experienced attorneys, judges, and policymakers who are actively advancing DEI principles in their organizations. Learning about their journeys and strategies for fostering inclusivity broadened my understanding of the profession’s challenges and opportunities. This experience underscored the importance of diverse representation in leadership roles and reinforced my commitment to advocating for systemic change within the legal community.

The fellowship also enhanced my advocacy and communication skills. I participated in specialized workshops on promoting DEI within organizations, where I learned to present ideas effectively to various stakeholders, from senior leadership to grassroots teams. These sessions equipped me with practical techniques for crafting compelling arguments and navigating complex institutional environments. Mastering these skills is essential in the legal profession, where advancing DEI requires both effective communication and strategic advocacy. The ability to influence policy and foster an inclusive work environment is crucial, and this experience has provided me with a strategic approach that will be invaluable in addressing complex issues and driving DEI initiatives throughout my career.

Overall, the fellowship equipped me with practical skills and knowledge to advance diversity, equity, and inclusion in the legal profession. It inspired me to be more intentional in driving change and leveraging my position to support underrepresented groups. Additionally, it highlighted the importance of collaborating with others who share these values.
Looking ahead, I plan to remain actively involved in DEI initiatives at Boston University School of Law and beyond. I am grateful for the opportunity provided by the Boston Bar Foundation and its partner firms and am eager to apply the insights and skills I have gained to my future endeavors.

As a BBA Diversity Fellow, I spent the summer interning in the Legal Department at the Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport). I had the privilege of engaging with a diverse array of legal projects, encompassing areas such as real estate and federal preemption. This experience has been pivotal in advancing my legal career and deepening my understanding of the legal profession.

During my internship, I not only conducted extensive legal research and analysis on various topics but also had the opportunity to tour several Massport properties. These included the historic Boston Fish Pier, Flynn Cruise Terminal, Conley Container Terminal, Hanscom Airport, and Terminal E at Boston Logan Airport. Engaging with various Massport employees during these tours allowed me to gain insights into the practical implications of legal frameworks on aviation and maritime operations. These firsthand experiences were undoubtedly the highlight of my internship, as they illustrated how legal principles directly influence real-world scenarios.

This internship has significantly contributed to my professional development in multiple ways. First, I established meaningful relationships with the attorneys at Massport, from whom I learned invaluable lessons about legal practice and professionalism. Second, I honed essential skills in legal research, writing, and analysis that will be crucial as I progress in my legal career.

Throughout my time at Massport, I remained dedicated to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion within the legal field. I participated in an event organized by Massport during Pride Month, which was an enlightening experience that underscored the importance of inclusivity in our profession. Additionally, I actively sought mentorship opportunities with diverse attorneys within the department, recognizing the value of learning from varied perspectives.

My summer internship at the Massport Legal Department has been a transformative experience that has greatly advanced my legal career. Through hands-on involvement, mentorship, and exposure to a broad spectrum of legal projects, I have gained critical insights into the legal profession and developed practical skills that will serve me well in my future endeavors. I am grateful for the opportunity to work alongside a talented and dedicated legal team at Massport and look forward to continuing my commitment to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion within the legal profession.

I am extremely grateful to the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion program at the Boston Bar Association (BBA). This is my second year participating in this fellowship, and I am truly blessed to have been able to pursue my interest in public service through the assistance of this fellowship.

This summer, I had the pleasure of interning with the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office, as a 3:03 Student Attorney. I researched case law regarding a Motion to Suppress hearing. I also prepared case files; arraigned and dismissed cases; conducted bail arguments; motions to revoke bail; and Plea hearings. This was a great experience because I was able to stand on cases and see a different side of the justice system in comparison to my previous experience in the public defender’s office.

A couple of highlights of my summer included getting a shout-out from the Chief Justice of the Chelsea District Court when I first stood on a case in front of him. I also had the opportunity to tour a jail, which is something I’ve always wanted to do. I know it’s quite interesting that it’s a highlight, but I think it is important for prosecutors to see what a jail looks like given that a huge part of our job is putting people away. I think this helps us be more thorough with our work.

This experience has advanced my legal career tremendously as I became more confident and aware of courtroom decorum, and the process of trying a case. I built connections with my supervisors, the ADAs, and even Defense Attorneys. I did not know the courts had a Mental Health Court, so it was great to see another aspect of the justice system, that no one talks about. This internship opened my eyes and expanded my knowledge of criminal law, and I excitedly was able to apply what I learned in Criminal Procedure to the real world.

A professional accomplishment I am proud of was arguing my first Motion to Revoke Bail. I was nervous and did not feel ready because the case was sort of thrown at me last minute. But I told myself, “You got this Nneka!” I quickly prepared pointers for what I was going to say, and I did tremendously well. When I finished my argument, the ADA I was standing with said she was shocked because she did not think I was going to do that well, given that it was my first, but I did amazing. She sent a message notifying the other ADAs and supervisor that I was “Motion to Revoke Approved.” This was indeed a proud moment for me!

I am very thankful to the Attorneys I worked with, my mentor, and the BBA for this amazing opportunity. It has been an awesome summer and I am excited to continue interning at the DA’s office this fall. Thank you!

This summer, I had the great privilege of working as a Legal Intern in the Massachusetts Department of Children and Families’ Fair Hearing Unit. The Fair Hearing Unit is responsible for providing an administrative process by which consumers can appeal decisions made by the Department through a fair hearing. It offers a preliminary step in due process prior to appealing in MA courts. I was responsible for drafting Fair Hearing Decisions, attending and observing fair hearings, performing legal research for the Department’s Office of the General Counsel, and assembling evidentiary records for the Appeals Court.

In terms of my day-to-day tasks, I quickly honed my writing skills for work on Fair Hearing Decisions. I became very familiar with DCF policies and regulations, gaining a new understanding of this niche legal area. I worked closely with my wonderful supervisors, Nancy Brody and Darlene Tonucci, who I was also able to turn to for advice on establishing a legal career. Aside from obtaining experience in administrative due process, I had the privilege of working with several well-accomplished attorneys and social workers. I was greatly inspired by the commitment to servitude and public interest that my fellow co-workers exhibited through their work. I also had the honor of participating in a four-day training with other new DCF attorneys, which sparked a newfound love for litigation that I am looking forward to potentially exploring this upcoming spring. Along those lines, I had the opportunity to shadow a DCF attorney in court for a day at an evidentiary hearing, which further solidified my interest in exploring litigation in the future.

Along with providing me with this internship opportunity, the BBA also provided me with a mentor, Bill Gabovitch, for the summer. Throughout these past few months, Bill and I were able to meet and discuss how my internship was going, as well as learn more about each other’s academic and professional backgrounds. Bill provided me with valuable insight as a well-established attorney, and I was able to learn about the various paths available to aspiring legal professionals. He talked to me about his previous and current legal work and provided me with insightful advice about how to navigate the rest of my time at law school. I am forever grateful that I was able to connect with Bill this summer, and I look forward to continuing our catch-ups into the upcoming semester.

I spent the summer at the Boston chamber of the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Massachusetts. I was very excited about this internship as I had the opportunity to work directly with Judge Christopher J. Panos and his clerks on a daily basis, observe court hearings, become familiar with bankruptcy and commercial law, and enhance my legal research and writing skills. In addition, I was paired with a mentor in the Boston Bar Association and attended career development and networking events throughout the summer.

As a judicial intern, I observed several hearings every week, and part of my job was to help the clerks research legal precedents related to the hearings. Because the cases that reached trial always involved disputed interpretations of the laws, fair and equitable judgements thus require thorough research and analysis. It was imperative for me to produce clear and concise legal writing that effectively conveys both sides of the argument and distinguishes details in the facts of the proceedings. Most of the time, there were few precedents that provided clear judgements, so I had to reflect on the entire legal landscape of the standings and not ignore any details. By assisting the clerks and judge with research memos and proceeding summaries, I had an indirect but tangible impact on how the judge ruled in the hearings. By the end of the summer, I was able to write good research memos and at the same time got a good grasp on the bankruptcy laws in different chapters.

This summer also made me explore what kind of lawyer I want to become. Working at a court allowed me to observe some of the best litigators in the city, and I was impressed by their wit, eloquence, and professionalism in the courtroom. I also got to read their motions and saw firsthand how good litigators write legal arguments. However, I was more drawn by the bankruptcy law itself than the litigation process. My interest in bankruptcy law first began when my aunt lost her life savings to corporate fraud along with hundreds of innocent individual investors. It was heartbreaking to see how innocent people struggle with creditors when the party actually responsible escapes punishment. As a law student, I wanted to not only help those stuck in bankruptcy, but also understand how bankruptcy works and its role in today’s economy. Working at a bankruptcy court taught me that the line between right and wrong is not always clear, and the court’s primary job is to provide equitable solutions and help both parties reach an agreement. Being able to understand opposite sides, views, and objectives is not only a skill for bankruptcy lawyers but also a necessary quality for anyone who wants to excel in the legal industry. Eventually, my hope is to no longer try to find who the “villain” is in every case but instead see the importance of bringing parties together and reaching settlement in a fair and equitable manner.

By the end of the summer, I decided that I want to be a transactional lawyer that focuses on bankruptcy and other corporate matters. I want to work closely with corporate clients and provide them with legal advice on business strategies by understanding their needs and goals. Whether it’s helping companies going public or saving them from bankruptcy, I will use the experience and knowledge I gained this summer to facilitate business transactions and bring people together. Working in a court is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that I will cherish for the rest of my career, and I intend to maintain the professional and personal relationships with my clerks and judge in the future. I will take this memory and experience back to law school and continue developing my professional skills.