Meet IU McKinney Student Valentina VenderWaerden
10/22/2025
Valentina VenderWaerden is a 2L who worked as a legal extern at the Charlotte Center for Legal Advocacy. In that role, she worked in their immigrant justice program.
Where did you do your undergraduate/graduate studies and what was your major?
I started my undergraduate studies at the American University of Paris, then transferred to North Carolina State University after one year. At N.C. State, I majored in political science, with a concentration in international politics and a minor in French.
Did you work before coming to law school? If so, please tell me a little about that, if you would.
Yes, I took three gap years before going to law school. In my first year, I worked at a general practice firm as a legal intern to a retired superior court judge. In my second year, I stayed at the same firm as an administrative assistant and served as the main Spanish interpreter for our immigration clients. In my last year before law school, I worked at Mayer Brown LLP as a finance clerical assistant in corporate banking and finance law. I enjoyed the early exposure to multiple practice areas and the experience of working at both a small and large law firm before starting law school.
What brought you to IU McKinney?
I chose IU McKinney for its great health law and international law programs. Also, I had never been to Indiana before moving here! I took the leap and decided I wanted to live in a new place.
Have you taken part in any clinics or other externships at IU McKinney?
Yes. I externed at the Charlotte Center for Legal Advocacy in Charlotte, N.C., as a legal intern in their immigrant justice program unit.
This externship was particularly impactful due to the rapidly changing landscape of immigration law under the current administration. As a Colombian immigrant and a fluent Spanish speaker, it was rewarding to assist my community during a critical time.
I enjoyed the variety in the work assignments, including meeting with clients, preparing questions, leading meetings, attending court hearings, preparing clients for trial, drafting legal briefs, conducting legal research, filling out legal forms and applications, and presenting my research to attorneys.
Overall, it was an incredibly valuable experience. I am grateful for the opportunity I had to interact directly with clients, build upon my legal skills, and make a positive impact in the community.
What would you recommend to another law student who is seeking out a pro bono opportunity?
I highly recommend pursuing a pro bono opportunity. Helping people in need, gaining direct client interaction, and using your legal skills to make a tangible impact is incredibly rewarding.
