This summer, Molly DeBrandt ’28 transformed academic curiosity into career conviction. DeBrandt, a joint government and public policy major at Franklin & Marshall College, was drawn to a career in civil service and wanted to explore if law was the right fit for her future. As an intern with the Office of the Public Defender of Lancaster County, she stepped directly into the daily realities of the legal sector. Immersing herself in real-world public defense work gave DeBrandt the confidence and clarity she needed to envision her path forward.

“This opportunity revealed my passion for law and something that I truly enjoy studying,” DeBrandt said. “I now intend to apply to law school following my graduation from F&M, and I am actively tailoring my academic path and future plans to achieve this.”

Molly DeBrandt ’28

Joint Major: Government and public policy

Certificate: Legal Studies

Summer Experience: Intern with the Office of the Public Defender of Lancaster County in Lancaster, Pa.

Funding Support: Bill Jahn '65 and Sharon Jahn Public Service Internship Endowment

Hometown: Kensington, Md.

What type of work are you doing with the Office of the Public Defender of Lancaster County?

During my internship, I attended trial proceedings, worked directly with clients, and researched key projects. Daily visits to the courthouse and prison offered deep insight into the judicial system. Watching how each legal process varied was incredibly engaging and led every day to be unique. I was challenged to develop the ability to communicate with individuals facing profound hardship, necessitating a balance of professionalism and compassion. I was taught how to calculate sentencing guidelines and how trial proceedings are structured. I also researched individuals who have been sentenced to life in prison but, with a recent Pennsylvania Supreme Court ruling, may have the chance of rehabilitation decades after incarceration. This research helped the office gather evidence for some of their resentencings, and will hopefully lead to positive change within the prison system. I’m grateful for my coworkers and everyone who worked in the Public Defender's office — they truly made my experience so special. 

How did your F&M studies or personal interests impact your decision to do this internship?

I am interested in civil service and am studying government and public policy, so this internship was a great introduction to law while still following my area of study and career interests. 

What has been the most fascinating aspect of your experience so far?

Going to a criminal trial was the most fascinating aspect. It was so interesting to watch the trial process from beginning to end. The entire week challenged my perspectives and deepened my understanding of the complexities inherent in the judicial process. I was able to witness jury selection, opening arguments, and witness testimonies while also receiving real opinions and perspectives from my coworkers.

How do you feel your F&M education prepared you for this opportunity?

I felt well prepared throughout the internship because of how F&M classes always challenge me academically, incorporate real-life experiences, and highlight critical thinking. I felt confident applying these skills to the practical demands of the internship. I am also pursuing a legal studies certificate, which is a curated plan of classes that correlate with law. I decided to pursue this certificate as a way to take classes that are interesting and will help with my future career path! It also has been a fun way to take classes outside my majors. It has helped prepare me for what I would study in law school. 

How has this internship helped you along your chosen career path?

While I initially was unsure about pursuing law, this internship provided the clarity and direction I needed. It confirmed my passion for law as something that I truly enjoy studying. I now intend to apply to law school following my graduation from F&M, and I am actively tailoring my academic path and future plans to achieve this. 

Why did you choose F&M?

I chose F&M because of the amazing balance of academics, athletics, and community! (DeBrandt is a goalkeeper on the women’s soccer team.)