Iyahna Cordero

Major: Law and Society
Minor: Forensic Science

Legal Assistant at Luisa White Law

How did you learn about this internship opportunity?

I spoke to Christy Foster about opportunities that she may know about in any legal offices either here or in the Chicagoland area.

What is a piece of advice you would give someone in your major looking for an internship?

Network network network. I was only able to get this opportunity because I opened my mouth and asked for help.

What key responsibilities or projects have you taken on during your internship?

Some of my responsibilities were answering phone calls, drafting documents, setting appointments and handling client questions, sorting and filing case files, updating case files and supporting the paralegal in any way.

How has your internship helped build your skills and clarify your career goals? How did being a Liberal Arts student at Purdue apply to your internship?

Working at Luisa White Law helped me open up and become more sociable. It helped me figure out what kind of law I wanted to pursue and which areas I didn't want to enter. Being a Liberal Arts student at Purdue helped me approach my internship with a well-rounded perspective. My coursework strengthened my communication, critical thinking, research, and problem-solving skills, which I was able to apply directly to my work. I learned how to analyze information from different perspectives, communicate ideas clearly, and adapt to new situations.

In what ways has the College of Liberal Arts at Purdue University supported your internship journey? How has your participation in our Job-Ready program specifically aided your professional development?

My participation in the Job-Ready program was especially valuable because it helped me translate the skills I was developing as a CLA student into practical professional skills. The program provided me with guidance and resources that helped me better understand professional expectations, prepare for opportunities, communicate my experiences effectively, and approach my internship with a stronger sense of purpose. It also encouraged me to think intentionally about how my academic experiences could contribute to my long-term career goals.

Could you highlight a standout aspect of your experience in the Job-Ready program that you find particularly noteworthy?

One standout aspect of my experience in the Job-Ready program was the support I received both professionally and financially. The program not only helped prepare me for my internship and build confidence in a professional setting, but it also provided me with a scholarship that helped make the opportunity more financially accessible. The financial support was especially meaningful because internships can come with additional expenses, and having a scholarship reduced some of that financial pressure. It allowed me to focus more fully on my internship, learning from the experience, and developing the skills I will carry with me into my future career.