This is part one of a series where Santa Clara Law students discuss their summer work experiences. Hayden Craig JD ’23 worked at Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office in the summer of 2021.
Q: What company/organization is your highlighted experience from?
A: Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office
Q: What work did you do within your internship?
A: I was assigned to the Sexual Assault Unit. I took notes for attorneys during their trials, assisted in an investigation by reading through text conversations, transcribed interviews and 911 calls, and wrote an opposition.
Q: How did Santa Clara Law help prepare you for your internship journey both while searching for one and during your experience?
A: My ASP mentor, my mentor through the Criminal Law Society, and the Office of Career Management were all instrumental in the application process. The faculty was always willing to answer my questions, provide feedback on application materials, and run through mock interviews. The legal writing skills I learned in LARAW made me feel comfortable with the day-to-day tasks I was given in my internship.
Q: What was the biggest takeaway from your internship?
A: I knew prosecution was what I wanted to do going into law school, and this experience reaffirmed my passion. My internship gave me insight into what life is like as a prosecutor, which helped me realize the importance of this work in the community.
Q: What advice would you give current law students looking for their next internship?
A: Remember that interviews are an opportunity for you to learn about the employer as well. You’re not just looking for the best job, you’re looking for the best job for you. Ask them about the office environment, or how collaborative the space is, etc.
Q: What do you hope to achieve in the future?
A: I hope to become a prosecutor, and eventually work my way up to the Sexual Assault Unit, so that I can help victims of crime and make the community a safer place.
