I’m a Law Student, and I’m a Recipient of the Affordable Connectivity Program

As a full-time law student, I spend much of my day online doing schoolwork and sometimes taking classes. Many of my finals are take-home exams that require an internet connection. If not for the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), I would have to take these classes and exams at the library or a coffee shop, where the environment could be very disruptive. In some cases, such as when prospective students take the LSAT or GRE, the proctors don’t allow you to take the exam in a public place because of the risk of cheating. Additionally, affordable internet access has facilitated all three of my remote legal internships I’ve completed while in law school. Beyond school and work, affordable internet access at home is vital for ensuring privacy during telehealth appointments—especially ones that involve highly sensitive information. The ACP benefit is crucial for me, my studies, and my valuable contributions to society as a future public interest lawyer. Congress must extend the program to promote equity and opportunity for all students and families.

[Brandee McGee was a summer 2023 legal intern at The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights.]