1L Daniel Raddenbach: Interned in Embassy; Has a Passion for Foreign Policy

1L Daniel Raddenbach, a graduate of the University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire, last spring interned at the U.S. embassy in London. He plans to study international law and hopes to put his legal education to work in foreign policy.   

Welcome to the Minnesota Law class of 2022! You interned in a U.S. ambassador's office. Could you describe a little bit about that experience and how, if it all, it connects to your decision to study law?

This spring, I had a great opportunity to see foreign policy in action while interning for the U.S. Ambassador to the United Kingdom. I think that the study of law meshes very well with diplomatic work – they both approach problems with a very analytical mindset, and foreign policy is heavily involved with navigating international law, which I hope to study here at Minnesota.

Why did you select Minnesota Law?

I selected Minnesota Law for several reasons. First, because it has a reputation for training lawyers who use their expertise to help their communities – I want to be a part of that tradition. Additionally, Minnesota has great opportunities in international law, both through courses and studying abroad.

Minnesota Law is a place known for putting an emphasis on leadership. What does leadership mean to you? 

To me, leadership is mostly about empathy. All of the leaders that I have admired the most have had a deep understanding of what other people are going through, what motivates them, and what shuts them down. I think really successful leaders start by learning from and listening to the people they’re leading.

What do you hope to do with your legal education?

I hope to practice law in Washington, D.C. after I graduate, possibly in public defense. Eventually, I want to work for the U.S. State Department as a foreign service officer serving at embassies overseas. 

What three words that describe you best?

One more coffee.

Any hobbies or interest that you would like to share?

I really enjoy running, reading (my favorites are Tale of Two Cities and Cloud Atlas), chess, and ultimate frisbee.

What else would you like to share with the Minnesota Law community about yourself and/or your aspirations?

I’m super excited to start on my path here at Minnesota Law, and I want to thank everyone in the community for being so welcoming to myself and the incoming class! The process of starting law school can be pretty daunting, but my experience so far has given me a great understanding of what Minnesota nice really means.