Ripples of Change: My Internship Experience with CCKA

Andrew H., Fall 2024

Hello, everyone! My name is Andrew, and I am a junior at USC majoring in environmental studies and minoring in legal studies. I am currently interning for California Coastkeeper Alliance (CCKA), which is an environmental non-profit group based in Sacramento. CCKA works to litigate for the environment, advocate for environmental justice, and fight for swimmable, fishable, and drinkable water for all Californians.

As a policy and research intern for CCKA, I have the opportunity to explore many different facets of environmental law and political advocacy. I help conduct research, spearhead new policy topics, analyze pertinent legal cases, and create public comment letters. I also help draft and edit legal documents that will be sent to government agencies and officials. Some of the topics that I have researched include harmful chemicals in tires, stormwater management, cannabis cultivation policies, conservation easements, and dairy industry bills.

My internship with CCKA has been very formative for my future career. My experience at CCKA has not only familiarized me with the legal system and its framework, but has also strengthened my passion for law and my commitment to attend law school. I think that CCKA has served as a stepping stone towards my future career in law, providing me with invaluable skills and industry connections. In the future, I hope to continue the very work that CCKA lawyers are doing to improve the overall health and quality of our planet.