May 12, 2025
At Georgia Innocence Project, we offer internship opportunities throughout the year to undergraduate and law school students who are interested in pursuing careers in the legal field. These internships provide students with meaningful, hands-on experience in real-world innocence work—allowing them to contribute directly to the fight for freedom and accountability while developing their professional skills and deepening their understanding of the criminal legal system.
Since the organization’s founding, Georgia Innocence Project has relied on the contributions of dedicated interns whose knowledge, energy, and commitment continue to play a vital role in advancing our mission.
So when Ellie, one of our recent interns, asked to write a blog post reflecting on her time with us, we were excited to have her share her perspective. Read on to learn more about Ellie’s experience.
Ellie’s Internship Experience
When I first joined Georgia Innocence Project as an undergraduate Legal Records intern, I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect. As a senior in college still in the early stages of my legal journey, I came in with a lot of curiosity, a strong desire to contribute, and a willingness to learn. What I didn’t anticipate was just how welcomed, empowered, and inspired I would feel through my time here.
Interning as an undergraduate at Georgia Innocence Project offers a unique lens into the world of innocence work. Much of my time was spent organizing documents, reviewing case files, and reading through clients’ experiences—sometimes decades’ worth of records and correspondence. I helped prepare and structure the file documentation so attorneys could easily access what they needed to move a case forward. In doing so, I learned that supporting the backbone of this work is just as critical for clients as what happens in the courtroom. It’s a powerful reminder that every file, every record, and every email may contain a puzzle piece that leads to justice.
One of the most impactful parts of the internship was getting to know the staff of Georgia Innocence Project and witnessing the different departments working in sync. Whether it’s the legal team, communications, or operations, the collaborative environment is inspiring. Everyone’s contributions matter, are valued, and are heard—regardless of experience level—which is incredibly welcoming to a student intern. Full staff meetings are a time for confronting the hard truths of our work, but also for laughter and moments shared with colleagues. Being heard and seen as an intern is the greatest gift you can be given—it builds confidence, affirms your values, and sets a baseline for the kind of supportive, purpose-driven work environment you should seek moving forward.
Through this internship I also learned just how nuanced and challenging wrongful conviction work is. The path to exoneration is neither linear nor fast. It involves years of dedication combing through massive amounts of records, chasing down leads, and navigating a legal system that isn’t always designed to welcome second chances. The resilience of Georgia Innocence Project’s team—and the people they serve—has left a deep impression on me. I’ve found myself more determined than ever to pursue a legal career centered around justice and equity. As I begin law school in the fall, I am confident this experience will stick with me and shape me into a more aware, competent, and compassionate legal professional.
What makes Georgia Innocence Project’s undergraduate internship program so special is that it allows students like me to enter a space typically reserved for those further along a formal legal path. It bridges the gap between passion and progression, offering mentorship, exposure to meaningful work, and the chance to make an impact while still in college. The program doesn’t just teach you about innocence work—it invites you into it.
For any undergraduate student considering a future in law, or simply someone who cares about justice, I cannot recommend this experience enough. You will walk away not just more informed, but more committed, more connected, and more hopeful that even in the face of injustice, there are people doing the hard, necessary work to make things right. I’m grateful to be a part of that effort.
Words from Wajiha Tamkeen, Legal Records Specialist and Ellie’s supervisor: “Interns have always been an essential component of our work here at Georgia Innocence Project. As a former Georgia Innocence Project intern myself, I can relate to the challenges that they encounter. Our entire team truly appreciates the fresh perspectives our interns bring to our work.”
We are deeply grateful for the dedication and insight interns bring to Georgia Innocence Project, and we are always eager to connect with students who are passionate about the legal system.
If you or a student you know is interested in contributing to meaningful change while gaining hands-on experience in innocence work, we encourage you to explore our internship opportunities.