In the dynamic realm of immigration law, every case presents unique challenges and opportunities for advocacy. Last school year, I had the privilege of interning with the Detention and Deportation Defense Initiative at the Immigrant Rights Clinic, Rutgers Law School (Rutgers DDDI).
Throughout my internship journey, I engaged in a multifaceted approach to client representation. I initially worked on a detained client’s U-visa application. This involved an array of responsibilities from conducting research, communicating with corresponding law enforcement, and obtaining other relevant documentation. Subsequently, my focus shifted to a country conditions assignment for the same client, demanding a different skill set and strategic approach. In this phase, our goal was to secure an expert declaration from Turkish country conditions experts to illuminate the persecution faced by supporters of a specific group. Through a combination of professional networking channels, legal connections, and personal outreach, we successfully identified an expert capable of providing us with a crucial expert declaration.
Under the guidance of Rutgers DDDI staff attorneys, I found myself immersed in a world where every brief, every submission, held the potential to change lives. My experience was nothing short of transformative. One of the defining features of my internship was the diverse array of projects and tasks I undertook. From conducting country conditions research to assisting with immigration court hearings, each assignment offered a unique opportunity to hone my skills and deepen my understanding of immigration law.
But perhaps the most invaluable aspect of my internship was the mentorship and sense of community that permeated every aspect of Rutgers DDDI. Whether it was seeking guidance from my supervisors, or conversing with seasoned attorneys, every question was met with guidance and every victory was celebrated as a team. It was about the holistic development of aspiring legal minds. Throughout my internship, I had the privilege of working alongside seasoned professionals who not only shared their expertise but also encouraged me to explore new avenues of legal thought. From drafting memos to participating in client meetings, every task was an opportunity to refine my skills and broaden my perspective. The mentorship I received at Rutgers DDDI wasn’t just about honing legal knowledge; it was about nurturing the qualities that define a competent and compassionate advocate. Additionally, I had the unique opportunity to observe legal proceedings at the Newark and Elizabeth immigration courts, where I accompanied my supervisor during her hearings. These experiences provided invaluable insights into the intricacies of courtroom advocacy and further enriched my understanding of immigration law.
As I reflect on my internship journey, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to have spent a semester as a part of Rutgers DDDI. The lessons I’ve learned, the connections I’ve forged – they will stay with me long after my internship ends!
Raiyan Hossain is a 3L at Rutgers Law School Newark campus, currently serving as an Immigrant Rights Fellow at the Rutgers Immigrant Rights Clinic. She is the Senior Notes Editor for the peer-reviewed Rutgers International Law and Human Rights Journal and has been a Law Fellow at the Rutgers Center for Security, Race, and Rights. Raiyan has held leadership positions as President of the Muslim Law Students Association and Co-President of the International Refugee Assistance Project at Rutgers Law. Raiyan devotes much of her time to public service, focusing on initiatives that promote justice and equality for marginalized communities. Her primary interests include immigration, civil rights, constitutional law, international law, and human rights.