Amy Haer received her JD from George-Washington University in 2008. After obtaining her law degree, Amy worked as a staff attorney for the Catholic Charities Atlanta office. She then served as the attorney and associate director of the Immigtration and Refugee Service at the Catholic Community Services of Southern Arizona. Amy is now the senior program director of Catholic Charities Atlanta.
How did Tech and the Nunn School help you get where you are?
Well, for one thing, it gave me the analytical skills necessary to succeed in law. My focus on the Spanish language gave me an edge when trying to get into immigration law. The Spanish LBAT was key in taking my language ability to a practical working level. The Nunn School also helped me focus on the big picture when dealing with issues. The Nunn School taught me that other countries use the law based upon their different cultures and systems. In immigration law, it's also important to understand the underlying societal, cultural, and political issues, and then apply the law to specific situations. I think my Comparative Politics class helped me to understand the need for practical application of the law based upon the needs of the society.
What advice you would give current students at Tech?
Take advantage of everything. Tech has so many opportunities to gain new insight. Clubs are a great way to meet people. I also encourage students to sign up for classes that are outside of the International Affairs department. The technical strength of Tech will help distinguish you from the field. If you're interested in law, make sure that you choose your school carefully based upon the school's focus—whether it be public interest, corporate, criminal, etc.
What is something that you got from studying International Affairs and Modern Languages at Tech?
The will to work hard and succeed. The Nunn School gave me a strong work ethic that made the adjustment to law school easy. Tech and the Nunn School were also great places to build teacher relationships. The personal attention that I had from professors helped steer me in the right direction. I remember when I was thinking about law school, Professor Long sat me down for about an hour and we talked about different options. I don't think that I would have gotten that sort of personal attention at many other schools. And it's great going to a football school!
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