Inside Justice – A Summer Intern’s Perspective: Sara Santerre- Internship Summary

I would like to start this post by saying thank you, Chris, Chrissy, and Amanda, for hosting me and sharing your experiences over the course of this internship. Especially Chris, for giving me an opportunity when I was feeling overwhelmed and out of options. It was truly divine timing, and I can certainly say I ended up where I needed to be. I’ve met so many wonderful people over the summer, and my experience serves as a reminder to move with the current, let things happen, and look towards the future, as missed opportunities often lead to even better ones.  

When Chris asked what I wanted most out of an internship, I instantly thought of field experience outside the classroom. We brainstormed and eventually settled on writing articles about experiences and observations relating to criminal justice, including visiting Amanda in prison, sitting in on a court session, getting arrested (voluntarily), visiting a halfway house, and researching the differences between Florida and Maine’s various systems. The experiences I’ve had have opened my eyes to problems and processes that cannot be adequately described on paper. They’ve helped change how I see the world and have largely made me a more empathetic person. 

The 22-year-old boy in court, being sentenced to 9 years in prison, is a prime example. His twenties are over, the prime of his life, and they’ve only just begun. Watching the prosecution and defense move on from one case to another, like no people are involved, has shown how emotionally difficult the process can be for those facing trial. Talking to women at R.E.S.T.O.R.E DUVAL taught me that there’s much more beneath the surface of the previously incarcerated that few people seek to understand. We label, make snap judgments, and move on without taking the time to understand their situations. There was no tension or awkwardness when I met Amanda, because I wasn’t viewing her as a criminal, but as the daughter of my friend Chris. I think it’s often too easy to forget that we’re all just people doing the best we can. 

The only barrier is the labels and stigmas associated with the justice system.  

So, if there’s anything I can encourage in my last words to you, go and see this for yourself. Volunteer at a homeless shelter, sit in on that court session, talk to someone who has been to prison. You are bound to learn something new and see that there is always more beneath the surface. I spoke with a freshman class at my college recently, and they asked me, “Were you ever scared doing these things?” My honest answer: No, because we’re all only a choice or two away from being in the same position. One bad drunk decision could have us taking a breathalyzer and getting arrested. One mistake could put us behind bars. My education and position are a privilege. So please, enjoy your life with nothing but empathy and love for all others. No. Matter. Who. They. Are.   

Thank you for reading.