Blog

Hi! My name is Anna Arnsberger and I am interning at Benach Collopy for Summer 2024. I’m a rising senior at the College of William and Mary, but I grew up in the area and am an alum of Jackson Reed/Wilson High School. As a native of DC and the daughter of an immigrant, I’ve always been deeply passionate about immigration. But only in the past few years have I really centered my focus on immigration studies and advocacy. Through classes, clubs, and community engagement experiences on campus, I often reflect on how the historical roots of the US immigration system are based in white supremacy and xenophobia, along with how the contemporary manifestation of that system is completely broken. Still, academic research, volunteering in my free time, and promoting awareness around campus can only make so much of a difference — after graduating, I’m committed to dedicating my career to immigration law or advocacy. I believe that until we achieve open borders and true respect for human dignity, there will always be immigration work to be done.
For those reasons, it was a no brainer when Ava offered me the opportunity to intern with Benach Collopy. BC’s firm belief that immigrants make the country better and their commitment to supporting all people seeking residency in the US closely align with my own values. As a leading immigration law firm, BC truly puts in the work and gets results for their clients. I am excited to learn from the experienced attorneys and staff members at BC to expand my understanding of the immigration legal system. Additionally, I can’t wait to interact directly with clients, many of whom are from my own community, to help be part of their support system.
From my first day here, I have felt welcome and inspired by BC. In fact, it was in my very first hour on the job that I realized how everyone on the team is not only friendly and experienced, but extremely passionate about what they do. I love the energy in the office and the environment of mutual support and advocacy. One example of this that will stick with me was watching a stone ceremony on my first day. Seeing the gratitude of the client who had just been granted his green card, and the genuine excitement of everyone involved, helped me appreciate the importance of the work that is being done at BC. While the American immigration system often seems hostile and near impossible to deal with, knowing that such talented and passionate individuals are doing this kind of advocacy gives me hope as I navigate a future in this field. I have so much to gain from working with each person at BC, and I can’t wait to spend the rest of the summer learning.