Drake Law rising third-year student Anna Olson spent the summer interning with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in Omaha, Nebraska. We asked Anna to tell us more about her experience:
How did you learn about this internship and what was appealing to you about the opportunity?
I learned about the FBI Honors Program in undergrad through a former FBI employee. She endorsed the program due to its competitiveness and because it provides students an opportunity to learn about the bureau. As cheesy as it may sound, I was initially interested because I grew up watching detective shows and true crime. I wanted to use my investigative journalism skills from undergrad and my critical thinking skills from law school to contribute to FBI casework.
What does your day-to-day look like on the job?
Every day is a little different–I’ve had the opportunity to prepare cases for trial by compiling information and communicating with other government entities. As an intern, you get to dip your toes into lots of casework, whether it be organized crime, drug crime, white-collar crime, or other issues.
How did Drake Law prepare you to serve in this role?
Drake Law School has helped me appreciate the legal process. After taking criminal law, criminal procedure, and civil procedure, I can contribute to an investigation in a more meaningful way. Before this internship, I generally understood criminal procedure. Now, I can put that understanding into action.
What has been your best /favorite experience so far?
Working with FBI staff has been wonderful. The staff I have worked with assist newcomers hospitably and are committed to their casework. Everyone has very different backgrounds. For example, there are accountants, lawyers, former teachers, and military members. I’ve had the chance to learn from people with varying experiences and approaches to casework.
How has this experience impacted or shaped your plans post-graduation?
I have a better understanding of the federal prosecution process. This understanding will serve me well in my future endeavors. After graduation, I hope to clerk for a state or federal judge so I can learn more about the justice system. I hope to use the skills I have gained from this internship for investigating future antitrust and consumer protection violations.
Is there anything else you want to share about your experience so far this summer?
If anyone wants to participate in the FBI Honors Program, look into the program now. The deadlines approach quickly, and the process is rigorous. If you don’t believe you have the necessary background or are indecisive about applying, just do it. The experience is different than any experience I’ve had, and I’ve grown a lot from it.