Future Attorney Finds Her Footing
Queani Johnson
Queani Johnson
Queani Johnson has spent her undergraduate years doing what aspiring attorneys do: building a case. The CHS double major in African American studies and political science has stacked her résumé with courtroom experience most law students don’t see until their second year — and she’s not even in law school yet.
Johnson is currently a paid intern with the United States Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit, one rung below the Supreme Court, where she’s drafted legal documents, sat in on federal proceedings, and collaborated with U.S. Attorneys and Public Defenders. Graduation is next year. Law school applications are next.
Why did you decide to attend VCU?
Unlike the schools I considered back home in North Carolina, VCU offered a unique beauty and a range of possibilities that were unmatched. From the moment I arrived, I saw that my education was as important to the professors as it was to me. VCU captured every checkpoint I was seeking — diversity, opportunity, and an exceptional learning experience. I am confident that choosing VCU was the right decision for my academic and personal growth.
Why did you choose your major?
Since elementary school, I have been passionate about African American history, having read numerous autobiographies, nonfiction works, and fictional texts. Any subject that hints at the African American experience throughout history motivates me to continue acquiring knowledge, which is why I selected African American studies as my major.
Regarding my second major, political science, I am deeply interested in understanding the development of political systems over time, from ancient periods to the present, and their implementation in contemporary society. Political science provides a wide array of opportunities to explore concepts of power, governance, and political behavior, making the knowledge gained from this discipline extensive and invaluable.
Tell us about your internship.
Last year, I secured an internship that aligns with my majors. As a judicial intern with the United States District Court Eastern District of Virginia’s Model Intern Program, I worked with the federal probation office and the bankruptcy court. I have now transitioned to the United States Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit. This yearlong paid internship was a great opportunity for me, providing extensive exposure to judicial processes. During my internship, I rotated through federal, appellate, district, and bankruptcy courts to gain comprehensive insight into judicial operations. I observed civil and criminal court proceedings, supporting judges and legal professionals. My responsibilities included drafting presentence investigation reports (PSRs), petitions, memoranda, and referrals to national counseling services.
What are you hoping to do after graduation?
Following graduation, I intend to enroll in law school within the Richmond, DMV, or North Carolina region to pursue my ambition of becoming the first attorney in my family. In addition to attending law school, I hope to continue working in the federal and public defender sectors to support my interests in federal litigation and public service.