Taylor Ellerkamp ’17 interned at a local county prosecutor’s office in Ohio.
This summer I had the opportunity to intern at the county prosecutor’s office in my hometown of Marion, Ohio. My main responsibility was reviewing case files for upcoming trials. I read over police reports and witness statements, took notes, and filled in one of the assistant prosecutors on the most important details of the case. I was also able to attend hearings and trials as an observer on a regular basis. I was able to learn about the various responsibilities of a prosecutor. In addition to one jury trial, I sat in on many custody and child support hearings. As a result, I had the unique opportunity to learn about the inner workings of the legal system in my county from beginning to end.
I know that this will sound cliche, but my summer experience honestly changed my life. By reading files and attending hearings, my eyes were opened to countless atrocities going on right in my hometown. I have realized that I am unbelievably lucky to have the life that I do and to be getting the education that I am. One day, I hope to use my education to return to my hometown and help people who have never had the opportunities that I have had.