NeW is proud to highlight the great internship opportunities NeW women are experiencing in the workplace. Meet Olivia Hodge, president of NeW at Purdue University and an intern for Consovoy McCarthy PLLC. Olivia shares more about her internship:
Where are you interning and what is your job title?
I interned as a research associate at Consovoy McCarthy PLLC.
Why did you apply for this internship?
There was no application process for this internship. It was all word-of-mouth connections that began with NeW. When I got to the “interview” with Tom McCarthy (the name of the partner of Consovoy McCarthy), I was incredibly intimidated by the internship opportunity. I’m a marketing student, so what could I contribute to such an outstanding firm? I’ve taken some law courses but by no means am I on par with the 1L interns. Tom bridled any fears, and this was the first of countless warm interactions I had at the firm as he answered any questions and concerns I had at the time.
What has been your favorite part of the internship so far?
My favorite part of the internship was being in the Consovoy McCarthy work environment. At lunchtime every day, everyone in the office would come into the bullpen and socialize about anything from the importance of vegetables to whatever case they were working on. I had access to the most brilliant legal minds in the conservative field. Even their speech pattern inspired me to make my sentences more precise. Everyone at Consovoy McCarthy was so kind as to answer any questions, from office flow to civil procedure.
How does this internship help set you up for your career dreams?
This internship grew my critical thinking and social skills and certified my desire to go into law. Socially, I was introduced to the concept of prioritizing sincerity over seriousness. At the start of the summer, I was intimidated to speak at lunch and would act as an observer. I wanted to be presented in a light that showed I respected the associates and their standing. Still, looking back, I can see how my behavior could be interpreted as timidity. After three weeks or so, I was introduced to the concept of sincerity over seriousness as I grew more comfortable with the office regulars. This mentality shifted everything. I went into conversation feeling confident, knowing I sincerely wanted to learn from the minds I was around. My silent reverence was getting me nowhere. When I began engaging in lunchtime conversations, they were much more fruitful. I had no fear of looking unknowledgeable because I was! I was in an unknowledgeable state, and I was here to learn from the best.
How has your experience with NeW prepared you for this role?
NeW was the initial connection that landed me in Washington, DC for this internship. Last spring, I was emailed by Cherise Trump, a speaker at the 2023 NeW Leadership Retreat. She was seeking a Purdue contact for her friend Kristina Rasmussen of Do No Harm. Cherise was given my information from the administration team at NeW National. From there, Kristina and I took on a project that quickly grew our professional relationship. Towards the end of the semester, Kristina asked if I was interested in checking out her connections for internship opportunities. I jumped on this opportunity. I was recently introduced to the firm by acting as a standing member for a lawsuit against an institution in DC. Kristina had ties with Tom McCarthy and referred me as a summer intern. The rest is history. Without NeW, I would not have made any of these connections, and I would not have had this life–changing experience.
Any advice for other women who are looking for an internship?
Build connections with anyone and everyone, but out of genuine sincerity. When I began my relationship with Kristina, I aimed to serve her and her needs. I genuinely believe the Lord will bless what you steward well.
