First-year law student Michaela Parks has been selected for the Udall Foundation Native American Congressional Internship Program from May 25 to July 30 in Washington, D.C.

The Native American Congressional Internship Program provides American Indian and Alaska Native students with the opportunity to gain practical experience with the federal legislative process in order to understand first-hand the government-to-government relationship between tribes and the federal government. The internship is funded by the Native Nations Institute for Leadership, Management, and Policy.

The internship program gives students access to a network of American Indian professionals and alumni who work on behalf of tribal nations. Interns also receive housing, a living allowance, transportation to and from Washington, D.C., and an educational stipend of $1,200.

"I am extremely honored and grateful to have been selected for this internship and excited for the opportunity to learn about Tribal law and policy this summer from officials, organizations and professionals who are experts in the area," Parks said. "My passion lies in maintaining Indian Country's sovereignty and prosperity, so I cannot wait to take the knowledge I gain through this internship and apply it to the problems facing Indian Country."

Parks is a citizen of the Cherokee Nation and has always been keenly aware of the significance of her tribal heritage. At the law school, she reactivated and is the current president of the Native American Law Students Association.

Parks is the recipient of the Cherokee Nation Graduate Scholarship, U of A School of Law Dean's Scholarship and the Razorback Award Scholarship. She is also a member of the Student Bar Association and the Women's Law Student Association.

"Michaela is an extremely devoted student and a talented legal researcher and writer," said professor Amanda Hurst. "I am so inspired by her commitment to connecting her heritage with her law practice and thrilled to see her receive this huge honor and opportunity to further that goal."

The Udall Internship honors the legacies of Morris Udall and Stewart Udall, whose careers had a significant impact on American Indian self-governance and health care, as well as the stewardship of public lands and natural resources.

About the School of Law: The law school offers a competitive J.D. as well as an advanced LL.M. program, which are taught by nationally recognized faculty. The school offers unique opportunities for students to participate in pro bono work, externships, live client clinics, competitions, and food and agriculture initiatives. The school strives to identify, discuss, and challenge issues of race, color, ethnicity, and the impact(s) they have on students, faculty, and staff members in an effort to achieve a diverse, inclusive, and equitable community. From admitting the Six Pioneers who were the first African American students to attend law school in the South without a court order to graduating governors, judges, prosecutors, and faculty who went on to become President of the United States and Secretary of State, the law school has a rich history and culture. Follows us at @uarklaw.