2025 International Human Rights Fellows

Awarded to LSA undergraduate students to intern with Perseus Strategies, LLC in Washington, D.C., and its managing director, the renowned international human rights lawyer, Jared Genser (U-M Law '01).

Ellen Drejza
BA International Studies (International Security, Norms and Cooperation); BA History
Class 2026

This summer, I had the privilege of working as an International Human Rights Fellow at Perseus Strategies in Washington, D.C., from June 9th to August 8th, which was rewarding, impactful, and career-defining, as it taught me so much about pursuing a career in international human rights law and provided me with valuable resources to achieve my goals. It was an incredible experience I would recommend to anyone interested in pursuing a career in human rights or international law. As an intern, I had the unique opportunity to work directly with human rights attorneys, permanent employees, and passionate undergraduate and law school interns who motivated me to challenge myself by collaborating on many different projects and learning how to effectively communicate with clients and draft effective advocacy materials to seek justice for political prisoners and victims of human rights abuses. This experience allowed me to learn from different viewpoints and develop professionally; it would not have been as meaningful and formative without the talented people I worked alongside, who provided valuable feedback and advice throughout the internship. I was also grateful to be accompanied in D.C by one other U-M intern, Rachel Zaidan, who was a source of guidance and friendship while starting this internship and adjusting to D.C. this summer.

Awarded to LSA undergraduate students to intern with Perseus Strategies, LLC in Washington, D.C., and its managing director, the renowned international human rights lawyer, Jared Genser (U-M Law '01).

Rachel Zaidan
International Studies and Sociology
Class 2026

My internship at Perseus Strategies, made possible by the International Human Rights Fellowship, was an incredible opportunity that resulted in my professional and personal growth. The invaluable experience of working in an international human rights law firm, and specifically at Perseus Strategies with its diverse array of cases, allowed me to learn about new areas of human rights law and solidify my interests within the broader field. I also found it incredibly rewarding to be located in Washington D.C. itself this summer, as it allowed me to immerse myself in the current human rights and legal political climates. Finally, this opportunity connected me with talented and passionate individuals that I enjoyed working with and hope to remain in contact with as I pursue a career in the international human rights field.