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Student Experiences

CARL BERGQUIST​

Policy Counsel
Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights (CHIRLA)

“It’s no exaggeration to say that I went to Richardson to join the immigration clinic. Our clients were seeking various forms of immigration relief, immersing us in the complexity of immigration law. We conducted interviews, did legal research, wrote briefs, filled out applications and appeared in front of Honolulu’s two immigration judges on behalf of our clients. It was exhilarating and humbling.

So why did I want to join this clinic before I even started law school? I had previously worked as an immigrant rights advocate and met many attorneys that I admired. Given the incredible pressure that the immigrant community is currently under, exacerbated by policies and the COVID-19 pandemic, I became more convinced than ever that I needed to return to my calling.

I was fortunate enough to return to my old employer, now as a policy counsel leading our federal policy work and shoring up our participation in litigation efforts. The work that I do with both my organization’s other attorneys and with those of our allies would be impossible without the skills and knowledge I gained from Professor Egan and my peers in the clinic. For this, I remain forever grateful to Richardson.”

RACHEL OYAMA

Staff Attorney
Law Office of Carmen DiAmore-Siah

“The Refugee & Immigration Law Clinic provided me with challenging, meaningful opportunities to advance social justice and advocate on behalf of both documented and undocumented immigrants in proceedings ranging from form-based transactional work to representation before immigration court.
Under John’s guidance, my classmates and I prepared various cases from start to finish. We interviewed clients and witnesses, conducted factual investigations, researched and developed legal arguments, prepared immigrant petitions and legal briefs, drafted filings and motions, and represented immigrants at master and individual hearings at the immigration court.
The Clinic is also involved with the local community; every year, the Clinic participates with UNITE HERE Local 5 in Citizenship Workshops that help immigrants naturalize to become U.S. Citizens. The naturalization process can be daunting, lengthy and costly; being able to provide immigrants with assistance and resources not easily accessible was a fulfilling experience.

These practical, hands on experiences were invaluable for me—I got to give back to my community while sharpening my lawyering skills and problem-solving actual practice issues.”

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