Just months after Hurricane Helene devastated parts of western North Carolina, Duncan School of Law student Eric Rouse was exactly where he wanted to be: standing in a Buncombe County courtroom, conducting bail hearings, negotiating plea agreements and advocating for clients who could not afford an attorney.
Rouse, a 2025 Student Public Interest Fellowship (SPIF) recipient, interned with the Buncombe County Public Defender's Office in Asheville, North Carolina. The fellowship provides stipends to students pursuing unpaid or low-paid public interest positions, helping offset the financial burdens that often accompany public service work.
“I decided to intern at the Buncombe County Public Defender's Office in large part because of how Western North Carolina was affected by Hurricane Helene, and a desire to become a part of that community,” Rouse said.
During his internship, Rouse gained extensive courtroom experience and worked directly with clients navigating the criminal justice system.
“I have bolstered my confidence through experience and applied the knowledge I gained while at DSOL in a real and impactful way,” said Rouse, “This experience will shape my career as an attorney for the rest of my life.”
The hands-on nature of the internship allowed Rouse to translate classroom learning into meaningful advocacy. By representing clients in hearings and engaging in negotiations, he developed practical skills that will serve him well in his legal career.
Rouse emphasized that the opportunity would not have been possible without SPIF funding.
“Without being awarded the Student Public Interest Fellowship, I would not have been able to take this internship for the summer, and I am aware that many other students will not be able to experience public service due to a lack of funding,” he said. “Public service itself is a crucial aspect of society. It has long-reaching impacts across the country, and a majority of people often have no idea what happens in their local courthouse, state office, or any other public entity. Experiencing it firsthand is how one develops an appreciation for the work, and it shapes how someone views their community as a whole. Without this stipend, I would never have been able to learn the skills I have acquired, nor seen how I may be of service to the places I call home.”
The Student Public Interest Fellowship continues to play a vital role in expanding access to public service opportunities for law students. By providing financial support, the program ensures that students can pursue meaningful work in underserved communities without facing prohibitive financial constraints.
Supporters can help sustain and grow the program by participating in the upcoming SPIF Auction on March 26. To RSVP, visit: https://securelb.imodules.com/s/1119/16/interior.aspx?sid=1119&gid=1&pgid=6101&cid=10070
Those interested in sponsoring the SPIF Auction and supporting more students like Rouse can learn more at: https://securelb.imodules.com/s/1119/16/interior.aspx?sid=1119&gid=1&pgid=6044&cid=9970##Member%20Id##&gid=1
