This summer, I completed my internship with the Honorable Andrea Composto, and it was an experience I will always be grateful for. Judge Composto is someone I truly admire, and I learned so much from watching her lead her courtroom.
The most rewarding part of my internship was being able to see both sides of every case. I watched attorneys present their arguments, and then I had the opportunity to ask Judge Composto questions and better understand the reasoning behind her decisions. It gave me a new appreciation for how much thought and care goes into every case, especially in family court, where the decisions made can have a lasting impact on people’s lives. There is a wide array of people that come to family court, and Judge Composto treats them with fairness and kindness, which is why it makes her such a great judge to learn from.
I also enjoyed learning about the behind-the-scenes work of the courtroom, including how evidence is admitted and the important role that the court clerk plays. Throughout the internship, I strengthened my communication skills and gained a better understanding of courtroom procedures. This internship has furthered my interest in the law, and I greatly admire all the people in our legal system that work behind the scenes to facilitate a just court system.
– Liz Ortega, Psychology & Political Science 2027
It sounds like you’ve learned a lot by shadowing Judge Composto! One of the best things you can do with a legal professional is to watch them in action and then pick their brain afterward. This can not only help you think more like a legal professional, but also better understand the reasoning that goes into their decisions.
I would definitely keep in contact with her; she seems like a great resource and, most importantly, role model to look up to!
Liz, I am glad to hear that your effort and time spent at the NYS Unified Courts 9th Judicial District has payed off! I think that it is so cool to be able to work with a judge. I also am happy to hear that you got experience both with communication in the courtroom and with behind the scenes procedures as well! Best of luck to you and your future career!
I’m glad this internship helped solidify your interest in law and that you were able to see and understand both sides of each case. Great job!