USD Law Student Learns Valuable Lessons as Law Clerk Intern
Wyatt Vandenhul’s summer was a transformative experience that provided him with practical legal skills, enhanced his attention to detail and deepened his understanding of the legal profession.
His role carried a variety of responsibilities, including drafting legal documents, conducting discovery processes, proofreading legal filings and performing legal research. These tasks provided Vandenhul with comprehensive exposure to the practical aspects of legal work, significantly enhancing his professional skills.
The most valuable aspect of the summer internship was the insight Vandenhul gained into the nuanced practicalities of law that are not typically covered in academic settings.
Vandenhul particularly appreciated the opportunity to develop crucial time management skills while working under an attorney who serves as both legal counsel for Omni Title and a partner at Chatelain & Galer. His supervisor’s dual role allowed Vandenhul to observe the intricate balance required in managing responsibilities across different legal domains.
Reflecting on this experience, here is what he had to say.
How did you get connected to this internship?
My connection to this internship originated four years ago when I began as a runner at the title firm. The positive community atmosphere and the company's willingness to provide recurring summer opportunities have allowed me to progress to interning under their legal counsel, fostering a mutually beneficial relationship.
What did you learn from the experience?
My time at the firm provided a deeper understanding of the patience required in a smaller law firm environment and highlighted the extent of inter-firm collaboration among legal professionals.
Are there any skills or tips you learned that will stay with you for the remainder of your law school career?
For me, the internship fostered an enhanced attention to detail and a more comprehensive understanding of case backgrounds. These skills, difficult to acquire solely through textbook study, will undoubtedly prove beneficial in my future legal career.
