Summer Experience: Malia Devencenzi ’26L This summer, Malia Devencenzi interned with the Native Hawaiian Legal Corporation in Honolulu, Hawai’i.

Malia Devencenzi ’26L

Malia Devencenzi ’26L is a second-year law student at Washington and Lee and is originally from Temecula, CA. She is an active member of the W&L community, serving as the Alum Chair for SEIPLS (Sports, Entertainment, and Intellectual Property Law Society), the Law School Representative for the University Committee on Inclusive Campus Climate, and a Women Law Students Organization member and former Mentorship Chair. This past summer Malia interned with the Native Hawaiian Legal Corporation in Honolulu, Hawai’i. After law school, she plans on moving back west to begin her legal career closer to family and friends.  

What did you do for work this summer?

This summer I worked with the Native Hawaiian Legal Corporation on Oahu. My work included reaching out to the Department of Hawaiian Homelands to ensure accurate records for our clients, genealogy work that dated back centuries, and researching case law that would help show support as to why Native Hawaiian traditions should be upkept by the legal system.

How did you find this position?

Being Native Hawaiian, I knew I always wanted to give back to my community. I was researching different non-profit firms in Hawai’i and this one stood out to me. They work almost specifically with Native Hawaiian clients and represent issues related to customary and traditional practices. This was the perfect place for me to spend my summer because I knew my work was helping fellow Native Hawaiians in need.

Describe your work experience.

I thoroughly enjoyed my environment and the attorneys I worked with this summer. We regularly participated in weekly cultural practice days where the attorneys taught us traditional activities such as papale making, weaving, hula, and much more. It was incredibly important to me to connect more deeply with my Native Hawaiian heritage and fully embrace the rich culture and history that comes with it. 

What were some skills you developed this summer? 

This summer, I learned an invaluable lesson about the profound need for legal assistance among underserved communities and the ease with which state government systems can marginalize them. While I was aware of Hawai’i’s historical injustices and the systemic practices and laws that have disadvantaged Native Hawaiians, it wasn’t until I witnessed these issues firsthand that I grasped the frequency and severity of their impact. Seeing how often Native Hawaiians are pushed down within the legal system was a stark reminder of the importance of advocacy and equitable legal representation. This experience has deepened my commitment to pursuing justice and supporting those who are often overlooked by the system.

What surprised you about the work you did this summer? 

What surprised me most this summer was realizing that I likely wouldn’t want to work in Hawai’i long-term. While I cherish the connection to my roots, the state has become overly populated and tourist driven. Although I’m grateful for the experiences I had, this summer unexpectedly affirmed that I wouldn’t find long-term happiness there.

What was your favorite aspect of this summer work experience?

My favorite aspect of this work experience was applying what I had learned during my first year in a practical setting. As a hands-on learner, being in the office and given tasks to complete using my knowledge was incredibly rewarding. This opportunity to actively engage with real-world challenges was the best part of my experience.

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

This experience confirmed that, regardless of the legal specialty I choose, my passion lies in helping people. It also reinforced my love for representing individuals for the greater good. Whether advocating for justice as a prosecutor or representing athletes, both paths are equally appealing to me.

How do you think this experience will shape the rest of your time at W&L Law?

My experiences this summer are significantly influencing how I approach my future academic and extracurricular decisions. I am now more intentional about selecting classes, practicums, and extracurricular activities that align with my newfound understanding and interests. Looking ahead, I am also eager to expand the W&L alumni network in the western region, fostering connections and opportunities for future graduates. This experience has not only shaped my immediate educational goals but also inspired me to contribute to a broader professional community.