Student Reflection – Pipeline to Law Initiative

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With this summer’s Pipeline to Law Workshop quickly approaching, the ILP reached out to previous attendees of the program for their advice and opinions of the workshop. If their testimonials interest you, apply here.

Five current Indian Legal Program 2L students, Kris Beecher (Navajo), Candace Begody (Navajo), Janet Bill (Chukchansi), Brian Garcia (Pascua Yaqui), and Irvin Williams (Navajo), give their reflections on their experience on the Native American Pipeline to Law Initiative. Incoming ILP 1L, Allison Gloss also shared her experience.

Kris Beecher: “One of the most beneficial things I did to get ready to apply for law school was attend the Pipeline to Law workshop. With no one in my family ever having been to law school, I had to look to outside resources to get the facts on applying. All the facts and more were made available to me, and the mentorship and advice from lawyers, law school students, and faculty were crucial in applying and being accepted to law school. By attending the Pipeline to Law workshop my LSAT score was better, my personal statement was stronger, and my application to my dream school was the best that it could be. I would recommend any Native American students interested in pursuing their dream of going to law school to take the time to get the facts and support, and attend the Pipeline to Law workshop.”

Candace Begody: “The Pipeline to Law Program helped me to plan out a timeline that worked for me that would increase my chances of getting into a law school. I sat down with people who sat on admissions teams who have me advice on how to make my application stronger but also gave me insight into what schools were looking for to make me a stronger candidate. The program was truly instrumental in my law school admissions process – they made it realistic and worked with me to make it a smooth process.”

Janet Bill: “My experience with the Native American Pipeline to Law program was beyond my expectations. I would not have been able to navigate the law school application process without this program. I was able to create a more competitive application and get accepted to the law school of my choice.”

 

 

Brian Garcia: “The pipeline program established the essential critical foundation to be considered a viable Native law school applicant. The program helped empower and truly prepare me for the realities of the process.”

 

 

 

Irvin Williams: “I participated in the workshop that was held at Michigan State University in the fall of 2016. I appreciated the program paying for my room. I also enjoyed meeting other law school applicants since we were all in the same boat.

I found value in the Indian professors talking about Indian Law and the participants being able to ask them questions about anything. A summary on the application process was informative. A quick strategy on LSAT taking was insightful. Overall, the program kept me motivated on my Law School endeavor.

Take it sooner rather than later, so that you have ample time to prepare your law school application and prep for the LSAT.”

Allison Gloss: “I am so thankful that I was able to participate in the Pipeline to Law program because it made me excited to apply to law school. The program leaders are very approachable and know all of the ins and outs of the law school admissions process. They tell you everything you need to know to get into law school and what to do once you are there, and they are available for questions if you need clarification on anything. I attended the Seattle program and it was fabulous to be able to explore a new city for a week, I even made friends there that I still keep in touch with to this day!”

Additionally, four first year and current students enrolled in other law schools benefited from the Pipeline to Law Workshop. MacArthur L. Stant II (University of New Mexico), Krista Thompson (University of New Mexico), Cassondra Church (Michigan State University) and Grace Carson (University of California, Los Angeles) attended the Pipeline to Law Initiative.

MacArthur L. Stant II: “My experience with the Pipeline to Law Workshop was incredible. My complete experience was so refreshing and meaningful. There were so many positive relationships that I made at the workshop. First, there were the other participants. To meet with so many like-minded Natives Americans who were interested in law school provided me with a support group that continued with me throughout the law school application process. Then the workshop coordinators were true mentors, who not only worked in the law school admission field they were also Native American as well. The atmosphere was a welcoming and cordial one. I had thought about applying to law school for a long time and had serious doubts about it, my PTL Workshop experience was the encouragement and confidence that I needed to realize that I could get into law school.

The information that I found most important about the PTL Workshop was the law school application timeline. Being made aware of the timeline encompassed all of the application parts and how to most effectively approach the law school application process. By using the application timeline that the PTL workshop presented I understood when to take the LSAT, when to get recommendations, when to write a personal statement, and most importantly when to submit an application. The PTL Workshop showed me that using an application timeline would result in my most competitive law school application.

In you are interested in applying to law school, there is nothing I recommend more that attending the PTL Workshop. The PTL Workshop was able to show me what I should do in order for me to have the best chance possible of being accepted into law school. Even though I thought I understood the college admissions process, law school admissions require a different approach. I was unaware of the nature of a law school application and the PTL workshop put me on a track that was clear and accurate to guide me through this complex process. I know that I needed help to create a competitive law school application and the PTL Workshop made law school a real possibility for me. What was so assuring was that the coordinators and presenters were also Native American, and I knew that they had been where I wanted to go, and they wanted to make law school possible for me. I whole heartily recommend and encourage you to attend the PTL Workshop, if you are interested in law school this is the best step you can take.”

Krista Thompson: “My experience at the PTL Workshop was intense, but invaluable to my law school admissions process. During the workshop I received amazing feedback that saved me so much time on my personal statement. The workshop also acquainted me with the admissions timeline. I had no idea how much work and timing the process required.

The most important aspect of the PTL was the personal statement workshop. I was able to get feedback from 3 different perspectives, and I saved so much time on editing and figuring out what my schools wanted.

I always recommend interested students to attend the workshop. There are so many aspects to the admissions process, it’s too easy to get behind or lost if you don’t understand your strengths and what law schools are looking for.”

Cassondra Church: “I attended the Pipeline to Law Workshop in August 2016 at Michigan State University College of Law a year after I graduated with my undergraduate degree. At this point in my life I had already been accepted the Masters of Social Work (MSW) program at Michigan State University, but was still interested in attending law school. At the time, I thought that I wanted to participate in the dual MSW/JD program, however, I did not fully understand how to navigate the law school admission process. Attending the Pipeline to Law Workshop was a tremendously beneficial opportunity. In the Pipeline to Law Workshop I learned about the law school admission process, what the law school experience was like, how to pay for law school, strategies for doing well on the LSAT, and career opportunities for Native American attorneys. Not only did I gain a plethora of knowledge and skills, but I also had the pleasure of meeting several professors that specialized in Indigenous law and other aspiring Native American Law students. This Workshop helped me realize that law school was attainable and gave me the necessary tools and information needed to begin my law school journey.

The information that I found the most helpful were the presentations on the law school admissions process. The law school admissions process was nothing like I had ever experienced before and was extremely intimidating. When I attended the Pipeline to Law Workshop I understood some of the components of the application process, however I was unsure how they all fit together. The Pipeline to Law Workshop not only helped me understand the process, but it also provided me with other helpful tools such as an admission timeline, tips for writing a competitive personal statement, LSAT practice, and examples of what law school admission representatives were looking for in applications. 

 

I would highly recommend Pipeline to Law Workshop to anyone interested in law school. This Workshop provided me with several valuable tools and resources that helped me throughout my law school journey. The Pipeline to Law Workshop provided insight on topics ranging from the application process to finding a career as an attorney.”

 

Grace Carson: “The PTL workshop was a great experience. It was a wonderful opportunity not only to find the resources I needed for the law school application process, but in finding a community of Native students and adults in the same process as I am. It was a great opportunity to find a supportive community in the law school application process.

There was so much useful information given at the workshop, it’s hard to say what was most important. Honestly, without the workshop, I would have been lost about the law school application process. I think the two most helpful parts of the workshop was: 1) The LSAT prep course the program paid for, and 2) The personal statement building. Without taking the LSAT prep course, I would not have been able to prepare myself as efficiently and probably wouldn’t have gotten the score I did. The personal statement building made me aware of what law school admissions are looking for in these essays, and how to write the most compelling statement possible.

Even if they’re not sure that law school is right for them, this workshop gives people an idea about what law school will be like. And if they are certain or decide to attend law school, the workshop outlines the entire law school application process and exactly how to prepare for it. The PTL Workshop was essential in my acceptance to UCLA School of Law for next fall.”

There is still time to apply for the Pipeline to Law Workshop at University of California Berkeley Law. Attendees will participate in a 5-day workshop that helps assist students like those above to prepare for their careers and studies. Apply before May 1 here.

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Miranda Cyr
Communications Aide, Indian Legal Program, ASU Law

Job Opportunity – Judicial Clerk

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Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Court

Description of position:
Under the supervision of the Chief Judge, the Law Clerk is required to:

  • Conduct legal research on relevant statutes and cases; analyze legal issues presented by administrative records; communicate findings of research to tribal court judges either orally or by succinct memoranda.
  • Review legal pleadings, motions, briefs, transcripts, and recordings.
  • Draft memoranda of decision and orders for pending Tribal Court cases.
  • Attend hearings as requested by the tribal judges.
  • Prepare special projects such as editing decisions for publication and developing proposed amendments to Mashantucket Rules of Civil Procedure.

The annual salary is $50,000 plus benefits. 

To apply:

  1. Submit a cover letter addressed to “Chief Judge,” resume, law school transcript (official or unofficial), a brief legal writing sample, and a list of 2-3 references.  Letters of recommendation are preferred, but not required.  Transcripts and letters of recommendation may be included in the application packet or sent under separate cover.  Applications are accepted via U.S. mail and/or e-mail.
  2. Additionally, applicants must submit an online application via https://www.foxwoods.com/careers/.   Click the Apply Now link, select Tribal Government and search for key words “law clerk.”

Applicants will be considered on such criteria as
academic standing, law review or journal experience, moot court, other
significant research or writing experience in the field of Native American law,
prior employment, and faculty, employer or personal recommendations.

Application Method(s)

Alumni Advice – Udall Alumni

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The Indian Legal Program is always looking to expand our ILP family’s opportunities to network and gain experience in the legal profession. By networking with the Udall Foundation, we can show students more opportunities to participate in Indian Law programs across the country. Alumni Chia Halpern Beetso (’08), Julian Nava (’10) Jacqueline Bisille (MLS ’14), all completed the Udall Internship, along with current students Cynthia Freeman (2L), Christina Andrews (3L) and DesiRae Deschine (3L). The ILP asked these six Udall Alumni to share some advice to current or future students through their experience participating in the Udall Summer Internship Program.

“After completing my undergraduate degree, I was accepted into the Udall Foundation Congressional Native American Internship Program,” Sarah Crawford (3L) said. “This opportunity gave me my first hard look at the legislation and policy at play… The Udall Foundation also provided additional opportunities to visit and learn from a variety of agencies, law firms, and organizations that focus on Indian Country policies. The Program also provides housing and travel expenses which greatly reduced the burdens that prevents many Native individuals from pursuing a summer internship in Washington, D.C.”

Q: When did you intern at Udall and why did you apply?

Chia Halpern Beetso: “I participated in the Udall Foundation Native American Congressional Internship during the summer of 2007. I applied because I always wanted to intern in a U.S. Congressional office and heard so many great things about the program. I also had friends who really enjoyed their experiences while participating in the Udall Internship as well.”

Julian Nava: “I was a Congressional Intern through the Udall program in the summer of 2006. I applied because I wanted an insider’s view of our Nation’s federal government i.e. how policies & laws are formed and money is appropriated, especially as it applies to tribal governments and tribal programs. I was also very interested in the history of U.S. laws and policies directly aimed at American Indian tribes, so I thought, what better place to learn about that dynamic (past, present, future) than at the center of U.S. law and policy.”

Cynthia Freeman: “I was a Udall intern in 2006. I applied because the Udall internship program provided a unique opportunity for me to work in Congress and to learn more about tribal laws and policies.”

Jacqueline Bisille: “I interned during the summer of 2014 in the late Senator John McCain’s office. While living in Arizona, I interned with various organizations and a local government on issues that affected Arizona Tribes. While I enjoyed my time with those offices, I never had the chance to work on policy issues that involved the Federal government and Indian Tribes. When I heard about the Udall Internship in D.C., I knew it was an opportunity to not pass up so I prepared my application, sent it in, and waited for the Foundation’s decision.”

Christina Andrews: “I interned summer 2017. I interned at Udall because I wanted to learn about the United States’ legislative process and its impact in Indian Country. I wanted to know if I had a place at the U.S. government area. I applied because of the prestige of being a Udall Intern and the doors it would open up for me.”

DesiRae Deschine: “In 2017, I was a 1L when I was selected for the Udall Foundation Native American Congressional Internship. I wanted the legal work experience within a federal agency and to gain an inside look at the regulatory process of federal Indian law. In addition, I wanted to be a Udall Intern so that I could live and experience Washington D.C. with a cohort of other Native American students.”

Q: What was the experience like and what was the most valuable thing you learned?

Chia Halpern Beetso: “I had the best summer. I was in the office of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs and was able to help plan and attend committee hearings. I got to see first-hand how legislation is drafted and passed. I was also fortunate enough to work on an issue that my own tribe needed assistance with. The most valuable thing I learned was to take the initiative to pursue my professional goals.”

Julian Nava: “I had a wonderful experience that I will cherish for a lifetime. The most valuable lessons that I learned during my internship was how important relationship building is, including, building relationships with those people who agree and understand your views and interests as well as those people who do not. Your ability to communicate and be inquisitive is vital to a successful experience.”

Jacqueline Bisille: “The experience was unforgettable because it gave me the opportunity to learn more about a career that I wanted to work in. I’d say the most valuable thing I learned was how Congress moves legislation through both chambers. The process is fascinating and continues to challenge me in unique ways each day while working for the SCIA.”

Cynthia Freeman: “The experience was rewarding; it provided me with numerous opportunities to network with tribal leaders and tribal advocates, meet Congressional leaders, and forge lifetime friendships. The most valuable thing I learned was the importance of having tribal representation within Congress, both at the leadership and staff levels.”

Christina Andrews: “The experience was more than I could have ever imagined. I was able to see the place where the Nation’s decisions were made. I learned about how law is made and passed; toured the White House and legislative buildings; helped create a bill and walk it through the process for consideration at the floor; I met many people who are advocating for Indian issues; I learned about being a leader and advocate for Indian Country; and finally, I built a lifelong cohort with other Udallers.  We still remain connected.”

DesiRae Deschine: “Interning with the Department of the Interior as a Native American Congressional Intern was invaluable. I received great mentorship and substantive legal work assignments from my internship placement. In addition to the work experience, I was exposed to other federal agencies, congressional offices, and non-profit organizations that share similar goals related to Native American communities and Tribes. Through this experience I strengthened my legal writing skills and as a result felt capable and ready to spend a full-semester in Washington, D.C. as a 3L with the D.C. Externship Program through the Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law.”

Q: Would you recommend this program to other students? If so why?

Chia Halpern Beetso: “I would definitely recommend this program to current students. It is a great chance to have a paid internship in Washington DC which isn’t always an option for many people. You often get to work on Native issues and have opportunities to attend hearings, meetings and receptions with various leaders in Washington DC. It can lead to job opportunities and truly is a learning experience.”

Julian Nava: “I would absolutely recommend this program because this program gives a hands-on experience that will hopefully provide students with a better understanding of how law and policy is formed, how the system works in real time and how they can eventually be a part of that system and/or change.”

Jacqueline Bisille: “I definitely would recommend the internship program to any ILP student thinking about working on tribal issues. In some way or another, a tribal government will likely have to work with Congress or the Administration and it’s good to have an idea of what goes on in DC.”

Cynthia Freeman: “Yes, I highly recommend this program to any student who is interested in learning about federal Indian policy and would like to work in Washington, D.C. As a participant, you will gain valuable insight into the legislative process as it pertains to tribal nations.”

Christina Andrews: “I was intimidated about DC, but now after going through the program, I have more confidence having spent the summer at DC. Also, this program challenged myself as an older student that I still have a lot to contribute, and I plan to do just that.”

DesiRae Deschine: “I absolutely recommend the Udall Foundation Native American Congressional Internship program to students that are interested in learning more about the government-to-government relationship between Tribes and the federal government and working for a congressional office or a federal agency in Washington, D.C. Being a Native American Congressional Intern was a unique experience and through the program I gained access to a network of Native American professionals who are contributing to strengthening Indian Country. Furthermore, I recommend the Native American Congressional Internship program because of the support that the Udall Foundation provides to each student that makes living and working in Washington, D.C. possible.”

Cynthia Freeman (left) in 2006 and DesiRae Deschine and Christina Andrews (right) in 2018

Q: For students who want to apply, what advice would you give them?

Chia Halpern Beetso: “I would advise students to review their essays a couple times prior to submitting the application. Also, to clearly explain why this experience will benefit them in their goal of working on tribal policy and make the connection as to why this internship is the next logical step in their trajectory.”

Jacqueline Bisille: “My advice for students considering in applying is to not procrastinate on your application. I’ve heard that the review committee can tell what applications were lazily put together from others that include well written essays. My last bit of advice for any student considering the internship program would be to go, if accepted, because they will be sharing these experiences with 11 other Native students, and have memories for a lifetime. A few of the Udall interns in my class live in DC and have become some of my closest friends. A bit cheesy, I know, but also one of the best things about the program and why I’m happy to have done it.”

Julian Nava: “Be inquisitive, ask questions (1,000 + perhaps), be involved, explore, be willing to learn, sightsee, be adventurous, network and tell your story.  People are very interested in your story. Tell it.”

Cynthia Freeman: “If you are considering applying, then it is very important that you have someone (a professor or mentor) review your application materials. I highly recommend talking with the Udall program or alumni, if you have any questions about the internship program or the application process.”

Christina Andrews: “For students who what to apply, I would advise them to take the application serious. Make sure you give well thought out answers; dig deep for your answers; don’t feel intimidated; and ask questions. Make sure to reach out to others who have gone through the program for help.”

DesiRae Deschine: “Students interested in the Native American Congressional Internship should reach out to alumni of the internship program and the Program Manager to learn more about the program and to receive individualized advice about the application process. Students should also work on their application ahead of time, research the contributions of Morris K. Udall and Stewart L. Udall to Indian Country, and seek out critical feedback on their essay.”

Find out more information about the Udall Foundation’s internships here.

Photos provided by students & alumni.

Job Opportunity – Assistant General Counsel

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Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation
Closing Date: March 7, 2019

DEFINITION/PURPOSE:
Provide legal advice to the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation Tribal Council, tribal departments and economic enterprises. Represent the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation in matters brought in Tribal, State and Federal court.

TASKS:
Serves as legal advisor to the Tribal Council, tribal government departments and economic enterprises; Provides legal advice and analysis of tribal, state and Federal laws and regulations, specifically in relation to water and environmental law and policies; Drafts and revises the Tribal Constitution, Law and Order Code, other tribal laws, ordinances, and policies; Works at hours and times outside of normal business hours and days; Drafts, reviews and recommends changes to various contracts; Reviews other agreements, proposals; Represents the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation in Tribal, State and Federal court actions; Performs other duties as assigned or required.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS/EDUCATION:
1) An attorney in good standing licensed to practice law in the State of Arizona; 2) Two (2) years legal experience working for a federally recognized Indian tribe or in the area of Federal Indian Law and Tribal Law; and 3) Current valid AZ driver’s license; and 4) Meet FMYN insurance standards.

SUBMIT APPLICATION TO:
Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation
Human Resources Department
Attn: Recruiter
P O Box 17779
Fountain Hills, AZ 85269
Phone: 480-789-7138
Fax: 480-816-0419
Email: recruiter@ftmcdowell.org

See full job description here.