LUM Intern Spotlight – Meet Leah – Spring Intern
Leah Kerkhoff – A Passion for Immigration Advocacy
Leah Kerkhoff, a dedicated intern with the LUM Immigration Clinic, is making a meaningful impact while gaining invaluable experience in the field of immigration law. A native of Lebanon, Indiana, Leah graduated from Lebanon High School and is currently a senior at Purdue University, where she is pursuing a double major in Political Science and Spanish, with minors in Human Rights, Global Studies Liberal Arts, and Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies.
As an intern with the LUM Immigration Clinic, Leah is focused on assisting individuals navigating complex immigration processes. Her goal is to gain hands-on experience with immigration proceedings for a variety of needs, preparing her for a future career as a paralegal or legal assistant at an immigration law firm.
Leah’s passion for advocacy and service is deeply rooted in her academic and cocurricular pursuits. She has been an active member of Pi Sigma Alpha, the Political Science Honor Society, for four years, and has served as the treasurer and instructor for Purdue Night Train Swing Dance, specializing in Lindy Hop. Additionally, Leah has worked at Silver Dipper for three years, balancing her academic, professional, and cocurricular commitments with remarkable dedication.
“I enjoy meeting with clients and community members and getting to see the course of an immigration case all the way through—from the initial consultation to receiving the approval notice,” Leah shared. “It’s incredibly rewarding to witness the positive impact that our work has on people’s lives.”
Outside of her studies and internship, Leah enjoys swing dancing—a hobby that allows her to express creativity and connect with others in a fun and engaging way. Her enthusiasm for both dance and immigration law reflects her drive to foster inclusive communities and make a tangible difference in people’s lives.
Leah credits her parents, Debbie and Matt, as well as her two younger siblings, for their unwavering support throughout her academic journey. As she prepares to graduate in May 2025, she remains committed to using her knowledge and skills to advocate for immigrant rights and assist individuals in need.
LUM is proud to spotlight Leah Kerkhoff as an intern whose passion, dedication, and commitment to service embody the mission of the LUM Immigration Clinic. Her work continues to make a meaningful impact on the community, and we look forward to seeing the positive contributions she will make in the future.