Lizzie Lee- CCIA Intern, Northern Manhattan Coalition for Immigrant Rights

Working at Northern Manhattan Coalition for Immigrant Rights has been one of the most rewarding experiences I have had as a Columbia student so far. I am so thankful that I have now opened a new chapter and begun to cultivate what I am truly passionate about.  I worked as a pseudo-legal intern this past spring and my supervisor has been such an excellent mentor, facilitating a great learning experience with respect to immigration law. 

Unlike many CCIA interns, I did not get the chance to work on big projects because I spent a lot of time dealing with clients on a daily basis.  Working with the clients has been such a rewarding experience because I never know what I am going to get on a given day.  I have been taught to believe in myself unconditionally, regardless of whether or not I am told I am doing a good job.  I have been able to build bonds with clients that are so meaningful, even if it is on a micro level, and I am really glad I have gotten the opportunity to work in a way that I would never be able to in another office.  I am really grateful for my supervisor and the rest of the staff for being so eager to help me learn and grow, especially in regards to the customer-staff relations.

Because of the good experience I had in the spring, I am going to continue working with NMCIR in the summer.   I am hoping to work on the Judicial Discretion Campaign this summer and help in one of their biggest policy change projects they have taken on to date.