PARIS LACHE’ ERICKSON

As a Law and Policy student at Liberty University from Maryville, Tennessee, I have become increasingly interested in the way law, government, and public policy affects people’s everyday lives. My education has given me a foundation for understanding these subjects, but I want to experience them beyond the classroom. The Washington Fellowship would give me the opportunity to see how the ideas I have studied are applied in our nation’s capital and to better understand the people and institutions responsible for shaping our country.

My desire to serve others has been shaped by my upbringing and by the people who have influenced me. Through leadership, community involvement, civic life, and ministry, I have learned that serving others requires humility, responsibility, and integrity. These experiences have encouraged me to take my future seriously and to pursue a career in which I can use my abilities to help others. I hope to bring that same mindset with me to Washington while learning from professionals who are committed to serving through government, law, and public policy.

What draws me most to the Washington Fellowship is the opportunity to grow personally and professionally in an environment that reflects both my academic interests and my faith. Living in Washington, D.C., would challenge me to step outside of what is familiar, meet people with different experiences, and develop a deeper understanding of the work being done in our nation’s capital. I am especially excited about the opportunity to gain practical experience through an internship and to learn from the professionals I would encounter along the way. I believe those experiences would help me become more confident, capable, and prepared for my future.

My long-term goal is to attend Lincoln Memorial University’s law school and become a corporate attorney. I know that reaching that goal will require discipline, preparation, and a willingness to continue learning. A semester in Washington would help me build on the foundation I am developing at Liberty while giving me a clearer understanding of how law and policy influence organizations, businesses, and communities. It would also help me grow in the communication, leadership, and professional skills I will need as an attorney.

I would be grateful for the opportunity to represent Liberty University through the Washington Fellowship. I would bring a strong work ethic, an open mind, and a genuine willingness to learn. I take responsibility seriously, listen carefully, and try to approach new experiences with humility and determination. Although I know I still have much to learn, I am ready to be challenged and to make the most of every opportunity.

I do not see the Washington Fellowship as simply another experience to add to my résumé. I see it as an opportunity to grow in my understanding of government, law, and public service while becoming more prepared for the career I hope to pursue. Most importantly, I hope the experience will help me better understand how I can use my education and faith to serve others with excellence and integrity.