BA in Integrative Studies

Sabrina Hernandez

Sabrina Hernandez is a senior in the INTS program, she is majoring in Legal Studies and minoring in Forensic Psychology. 

How did you decide on the INTS program?
I wanted a program that offered flexibility in my coursework while allowing me to explore various topics. Integrative Studies gives students the opportunity to connect ideas across disciplines and apply them to real-world problems. It has helped me develop a broader perspective by integrating everything I’ve learned into a more cohesive understanding.

What have you learned in an INTS class that really surprised you or changed your perspective?
INTS has taught me the importance of community building and how collaboration across different fields leads to stronger, more innovative solutions. Through integrative learning, I’ve realized how different perspectives can enhance problem-solving, and I’ve been able to apply these skills to my work and academic experiences.

Did you have any internships, jobs, or volunteer experiences related to your program?
As a first-generation college student with both of my parents from El Salvador, I have always been passionate about immigration law. I aspire to become an attorney and was honored to have the opportunity to intern at LunaVita Law in Harrisonburg, VA. This experience allowed me to gain hands-on insight into the legal field, particularly in immigration law. My role involved shadowing the attorney in client meetings and court proceedings, assisting with evidence for cases, and helping create initial accounts with USCIS. Additionally, I worked as a receptionist, scheduling appointments and communicating with clients. Each day varied, but I typically started by checking in with the attorney, logging into my accounts, and working on permits or other legal documents. Some days included attending immigration court, which was one of the most exciting parts of the experience. This internship helped me improve my professional communication skills and deepen my understanding of asylum law and immigration procedures. One challenge I faced was learning to manage my emotions when hearing difficult client stories. The attorney provided great advice on balancing empathy with professionalism, which helped me navigate these situations.

This experience solidified my passion for immigration law and reassured me that this is the field I want to pursue. My criminology and legal studies coursework provided a strong foundation, allowing me to grasp complex legal concepts more easily. The most valuable lesson I learned was that in immigration law, there is always an option to explore, even when things seem uncertain. I would highly recommend this internship to other students, as the attorney and team were incredibly supportive and provided a great learning environment. It also opened new opportunities for me, such as receptionist positions at law firms, which will help me gain even more experience before law school. My advice to students looking for internships is to choose something that genuinely interests them because some days will be challenging, and passion makes a difference. If I had to sum up my experience in one word, it would be rewarding, getting to witness the impact of immigration law firsthand made every challenge worth it.

What do you think prospective INTS students need to know?
Prospective INTS students should be prepared to engage with classmates from diverse academic backgrounds, which will help them become more open-minded and adaptable. The program encourages critical thinking and creativity, giving students the tools to connect ideas in unique ways and prepare for a variety of career paths.