Nicholas Foti '26

My experience at the US Attorney's Office was second-to-none. From day one, I was given challenging and interesting research and writing assignments that had real-world impact in a variety of cases. Additionally, I was mentored by an Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) who provided regular feedback and allowed me to observe his various court proceedings throughout the summer. In addition to making sure we developed substantive legal experience; our coordinators also scheduled a variety of educational and professional development events. For example, we had the opportunity to tour an international border crossing, a federal detention facility, and participate in a law enforcement simulator. Our coordinators also planned a variety of "Speaker Series" events where we were able to network and learn about various careers in private and public practice.

My experience was truly transformative. I entered law school with little interest in criminal law, but after having the privilege of working at the US Attorney's Office, I am excited to spend my next two years of law school diving into the field a bit more.

The work I was able to complete impacted me the most. I was fortunate to have the chance to write memoranda and briefs about challenging areas of the law that forced me to apply the skills I learned in my 1L year. Specifically, I was able to put my LAWR skills to the real-world test and develop my ability to both think and work like a lawyer. Additionally, as I mentioned, I was generally averse to criminal law when I entered law school. Now, after working on several meaningful and intellectually stimulating projects, I am deeply interested in many aspects of criminal procedure, sentencing, and post-conviction relief that I was unfamiliar with prior to my summer clerkship. Ultimately, my experience left me better equipped for my first job, with an academic interest in a variety of criminal law topics, and a point of pride.

I would also be remiss if I did not mention my wonderful colleagues--both AUSAs and fellow summer clerks--who had a tremendous impact on me. I couldn't have asked for a better group of people to spend a summer with, and I am very thankful.

I would like to thank our donors for their generosity. Without your support, I would not have been able to work in public interest law this summer. The fellowship allowed me to explore areas of law I otherwise would not have been able to experience and contribute to the criminal justice system in a meaningful way. Your selflessness is inspiring, and I plan to pay it forward by contributing to the BPILP Fellowship when I begin my career as an attorney.