Experience Spotlight: Symone Gibbs ’26L No two days looked the same for Symone Gibbs during her externship with Blue Ridge Legal Services.

Symone Gibbs ’26L

Symone Gibbs ’26L is a native of Smithfield, Virginia. She earned her undergraduate degree from Virginia Commonwealth University in 2023, where she double majored in criminal justice and homeland security and minored in political science. At W&L, she currently serves as Co-President of the Black Law Students Association, Director of Membership for the Mid-Atlantic Region of the National Black Law Students Association, Note Editor of the Journal of Civil Rights and Social Justice, Law Ambassador, and a Research Assistant.

Why did you choose to work this year with the Blue Ridge Legal Services (BRLS)?

After discussing my interests with Professor Keri Gould, we talked through placements where I could gain exposure to a wide range of legal issues while working directly with the local community and develop practical skills across multiple areas of law. After learning more about Blue Ridge Legal Services, I knew it would be a strong fit for my goals.

Describe your work experience and daily schedule.

My experience at BRLS was fast-paced and incredibly dynamic. On any given day, I could be conducting legal research, drafting motions, sitting in on or conducting client interviews, observing court proceedings, or helping attorneys think through complex legal issues. No two days looked exactly the same, which made the experience both challenging and rewarding.

What are some skills you developed?

During my externship, I really focused on refining my legal research and writing skills. I had the opportunity to draft memos and analyze complex issues to produce clear, well-organized work.

What surprised you about the work you did during your externship?

What surprised me most was just how fast-paced the office was. Turnarounds were quick, but that pace allowed me to see so many different areas of law in a relatively short semester.

What was your favorite aspect of your experience?

My favorite part of the experience was the strong sense of community within the BRLS office. Everyone was incredibly willing to pull me in and make sure I got the most out of my time there. That level of mentorship made the experience truly enjoyable and meaningful.

Has this experience helped you figure out your post-graduate plans, and if so, how?

Absolutely! I’ll be clerking post-grad, and this externship further affirmed that path. The work was research and writing-intensive, skills that are essential to being a strong clerk, and it provided the opportunity to continue sharpening those skills while staying engaged with the community.