Princeton Internships in Civic Service 2019 Bes Arnaout

Princeton Internships in Civic Service 2019 Bes Arnaout, Class of 2020

ALUMNI PARTNER The Honorable Alan S. Fine, alumni partner and supervisor for the PICS intern at the Judicial Circuit court was an great mentor, and a positive presence in our work environment. He was friendly, knowledgeable and understanding, always answering my numerous questions and sharing life insights.

DAY TO DAY Every morning at the Criminal Justice court would start with the daily trial calendar, that usually goes on for one to two hours. I sat either in the courtroom gallery, to follow the calendar, or in the chambers, to do research required for the day. When not eating out, the Judge and I would have lunch in the chambers, discussing work, Star Trek, and current affairs. The afternoons would be spent in trial or doing legal writing.

MAIN TAKEAWAYS This summer was extremely formative for me, strengthening my interest in law. I enjoyed every minute in the courtroom, even when I’ve seen the same procedure multiple times before, and I was challenged by the writing assignments. More importantly, perhaps, I am grateful for having experienced a lot through Judge Fine’s stories and our candid conversations in the chambers. I think good mentorship is one in which the student can learn about adulthood broadly, where work is included holistically into “the bigger picture”, and Judge Fine achieved this. A special thank-you to Princeton University Class of 1963 without whose generosity my summer experience in the Eleventh Judicial Circuit of Miami would be unattainable. Thank you!