Detroit Mercy Law 2L student Nathan Grewe interned this summer at Meijer, working directly under the associate general counsel and collaborating closely with senior counsel, senior executives, and interns.
Photo courtesy of Meijer
Photo courtesy of Meijer
By Sheila Pursglove
Legal News
With a father who is a police chief and a mother who is a federal probation officer, University of Detroit Mercy School of Law student Nathan Grewe witnessed contrasting interactions with the law within the household when he was growing up.
“I was often exposed to humorous remarks about lawyers and the varying perceptions of their professions, which sparked an ironic admiration for the profession of a lawyer,” he says. “Although I didn’t fully understand the role of lawyers during my childhood, I was steady in my desire to become one.”
Law classes in high school transformed his initial fascination into a deep appreciation for the specialized knowledge the legal field offers.
“I came to view legal knowledge as a valuable asset, enabling me to interpret and comprehend important texts that govern our lives,” he says. “I was often the friend who could simplify pieces of legislation or court cases for my peers, a role that revealed the potential to use my knowledge in a meaningful way—to assist others.”
Following the overturning of Roe v. Wade, Grewe had that same legal discussion with his girlfriend, who was seeking clarity about its implications.
“Drawing on the knowledge I’d gained from my legal studies classes, I was able to provide her with a clearer understanding of the legal landscape,” he says. “This experience marked a significant moment, illustrating how I could leverage my knowledge to aid others, deepening my desire to pursue law school.”
Grewe first earned a BBA with a major in finance, and a minor in legal studies, from Grand Valley State University. Finding finance particularly engaging, he immersed himself in the analysis of companies, financial statements, and interrelations within the broader economic landscape. He also had coursework that bridged law with finance and business.
“A particularly impactful discussion with an attorney emphasized the advantages of holding a business degree, not only facilitating interactions with business clients but enhancing understanding of the intricate dynamics of the business world,” he says.
After college graduation, Grewe took part in a summer internship with the chief of the Domestic Violence Unit at the Macomb County Prosecutor's Office, which provided valuable insights into the realm of criminal law. He observed numerous trials and engaged in many discussions with the attorney he assisted, learning a great deal about the operations of a prosecutor's office and about what to expect in law school.
“While I’m truly grateful for my time there, I quickly realized criminal law is likely not the right path for me,” he says.
Now a 2L student at Detroit Mercy Law, Grewe appreciates the tight-knit yet expansive community and its location in the heart of Detroit with proximity to federal and state courts, and a plethora of law firms.
“The smaller classroom sizes and the open-door policy of the faculty make what can be a daunting educational experience feel much more accessible and inviting,” he says. “Every step of the way, from admissions to academic achievements, has been met with warm welcomes and heartfelt congratulations. When I secured a summer associate position with Warner Norcross + Judd, I e-mailed the career services office and received a congratulatory phone call within minutes. This kind of close-knit atmosphere is a daily occurrence here, making me feel truly valued at Detroit Mercy Law.”
He notes this past summer’s legal internship at Meijer was a fascinating and transformative experience, immersing him in the company culture, collaborating closely with senior counsel, senior executives, and interns. Working directly under the associate general counsel, he was tasked with a data privacy law capstone project, developing recommendations for a privacy champion program aimed to empower employees to proactively identify and safeguard against current and future privacy challenges.
“Engaging with senior members across multiple departments allowed me to gather valuable insights and witness firsthand how in-house counsel operates within the company,” he says.
Grewe also embraced a quasi-summer associate role, collaborating with numerous attorneys. He attended depositions, addressed civil rights complaints, and drafted Meijer’s position statements in response. He also worked alongside undergraduate interns and their mentors to evaluate projects for relevant legal implications.
“This experience was nothing short of incredible. Not only did I interact with a remarkable group of attorneys, but I also gained exposure to a unique aspect of the law that few law students or attorneys encounter,” he says. “My internship was a remarkable exploration into the world of in-house counsel and provided me with deep insight into the ever-expansive world of work an attorney may engage in.”
His next step is a summer associate position next year at Warner Norcross + Judd.
“I’m truly ecstatic to join Warner, as the firm distinguished itself to me in several compelling ways throughout the interview process,” he says. “My sense of alignment with the firm’s values and culture solidified my choice, and I look forward to contributing to and growing within the Warner community.”
Grewe has been honored with two CALI Excellence for the Future Awards, given to the law student with the highest grade in a class. The award is presented by the Center for Computer-Assisted Legal Instruction (CALI), a non-profit organization that provides educational resources to law students
“It has been an incredible reality check—something I still find hard to fully process,” Grewe says. “Everyone enters law school grappling with a touch of imposter syndrome, and as someone with a finance degree and limited legal experience, I often felt somewhat out of place. However, to put in such hard work and see those efforts come to fruition is an extraordinary feeling. This experience has only motivated me further, reinforcing my belief that I truly belong in this field and that I am capable of succeeding.
“I have a deep passion for the law, as I believe it serves as a vital bridge between everyday individuals and the complex legal landscape that can often feel overwhelming,” he adds. “Being the person who guides others—whether individuals facing personal legal challenges or companies navigating intricate regulations—fills me with excitement and a driven desire to help. It's about more than just providing information—it's about translating complex legal concepts into understandable terms so people can make informed decisions. It allows me to play a part in not only resolving immediate legal issues but also fostering a sense of confidence in my clients as they engage with the legal system. The law evolves continuously, adapting to changes in society, technology, and morality. This ever-evolving narrative presents an exciting challenge, as it requires constant learning and adaptation.”
He is drawn to the idea that every case, every law, and every legal precedent is intertwined, and contributing to this dynamic landscape is not just a career for him, but a powerful opportunity to leave a positive impact on society.
“Ultimately, my passion for the law is driven by a commitment to making the world a better place—one interaction, one case, and one legal reform at a time,” he says.
Currently, Grewe finds himself leaning towards commercial or corporate practice, in litigation or contract-based work; yet he remains open to exploring various fields. One area that particularly captivates his interest is data privacy.
“As this area of law begins to expand significantly across the United States, it's clear that data privacy will become increasingly relevant,” he says. “My exposure to it at Meijer sparked a deep interest in the subject, and I’m thrilled about the opportunity to join Warner Norcross and Judd, which also practices data privacy.
“Additionally, I have interests in labor and employment law, compliance, and many other areas. While I haven’t made a final decision, I am genuinely excited to embark on my journey in the legal profession.”
While he does not yet have a specific career goal, what drives Grewe is the desire to establish himself in a field where he can make a meaningful impact.
“I want to use my knowledge and skills to positively influence the area I practice in,” he says. “The idea of looking back and feeling proud of the difference I’ve made fills me with enthusiasm and passion.”
Away from law school, he enjoys spending time with close friends and family, that includes two younger sisters. The family lives in Macomb, although Grewe spent his early years in Warren.
He enjoys going up to the family cottage on Houghton Lake in summer for fun boat days and in winter for snowmobiling.
“I also love to burrow into my nerdiness and watch Marvel movies or play games with friends, great ways of stepping away from the law and decompressing after long days of studying,” he says.
His longtime passion has been hockey, playing from the age of 6 until stopping after two years on Grand Valley State University’s club hockey team.
“I loved being able to be part of a team and learn so much,” he says. “The invaluable experiences and life lessons have translated into school and my professional experiences.”
Legal News
With a father who is a police chief and a mother who is a federal probation officer, University of Detroit Mercy School of Law student Nathan Grewe witnessed contrasting interactions with the law within the household when he was growing up.
“I was often exposed to humorous remarks about lawyers and the varying perceptions of their professions, which sparked an ironic admiration for the profession of a lawyer,” he says. “Although I didn’t fully understand the role of lawyers during my childhood, I was steady in my desire to become one.”
Law classes in high school transformed his initial fascination into a deep appreciation for the specialized knowledge the legal field offers.
“I came to view legal knowledge as a valuable asset, enabling me to interpret and comprehend important texts that govern our lives,” he says. “I was often the friend who could simplify pieces of legislation or court cases for my peers, a role that revealed the potential to use my knowledge in a meaningful way—to assist others.”
Following the overturning of Roe v. Wade, Grewe had that same legal discussion with his girlfriend, who was seeking clarity about its implications.
“Drawing on the knowledge I’d gained from my legal studies classes, I was able to provide her with a clearer understanding of the legal landscape,” he says. “This experience marked a significant moment, illustrating how I could leverage my knowledge to aid others, deepening my desire to pursue law school.”
Grewe first earned a BBA with a major in finance, and a minor in legal studies, from Grand Valley State University. Finding finance particularly engaging, he immersed himself in the analysis of companies, financial statements, and interrelations within the broader economic landscape. He also had coursework that bridged law with finance and business.
“A particularly impactful discussion with an attorney emphasized the advantages of holding a business degree, not only facilitating interactions with business clients but enhancing understanding of the intricate dynamics of the business world,” he says.
After college graduation, Grewe took part in a summer internship with the chief of the Domestic Violence Unit at the Macomb County Prosecutor's Office, which provided valuable insights into the realm of criminal law. He observed numerous trials and engaged in many discussions with the attorney he assisted, learning a great deal about the operations of a prosecutor's office and about what to expect in law school.
“While I’m truly grateful for my time there, I quickly realized criminal law is likely not the right path for me,” he says.
Now a 2L student at Detroit Mercy Law, Grewe appreciates the tight-knit yet expansive community and its location in the heart of Detroit with proximity to federal and state courts, and a plethora of law firms.
“The smaller classroom sizes and the open-door policy of the faculty make what can be a daunting educational experience feel much more accessible and inviting,” he says. “Every step of the way, from admissions to academic achievements, has been met with warm welcomes and heartfelt congratulations. When I secured a summer associate position with Warner Norcross + Judd, I e-mailed the career services office and received a congratulatory phone call within minutes. This kind of close-knit atmosphere is a daily occurrence here, making me feel truly valued at Detroit Mercy Law.”
He notes this past summer’s legal internship at Meijer was a fascinating and transformative experience, immersing him in the company culture, collaborating closely with senior counsel, senior executives, and interns. Working directly under the associate general counsel, he was tasked with a data privacy law capstone project, developing recommendations for a privacy champion program aimed to empower employees to proactively identify and safeguard against current and future privacy challenges.
“Engaging with senior members across multiple departments allowed me to gather valuable insights and witness firsthand how in-house counsel operates within the company,” he says.
Grewe also embraced a quasi-summer associate role, collaborating with numerous attorneys. He attended depositions, addressed civil rights complaints, and drafted Meijer’s position statements in response. He also worked alongside undergraduate interns and their mentors to evaluate projects for relevant legal implications.
“This experience was nothing short of incredible. Not only did I interact with a remarkable group of attorneys, but I also gained exposure to a unique aspect of the law that few law students or attorneys encounter,” he says. “My internship was a remarkable exploration into the world of in-house counsel and provided me with deep insight into the ever-expansive world of work an attorney may engage in.”
His next step is a summer associate position next year at Warner Norcross + Judd.
“I’m truly ecstatic to join Warner, as the firm distinguished itself to me in several compelling ways throughout the interview process,” he says. “My sense of alignment with the firm’s values and culture solidified my choice, and I look forward to contributing to and growing within the Warner community.”
Grewe has been honored with two CALI Excellence for the Future Awards, given to the law student with the highest grade in a class. The award is presented by the Center for Computer-Assisted Legal Instruction (CALI), a non-profit organization that provides educational resources to law students
“It has been an incredible reality check—something I still find hard to fully process,” Grewe says. “Everyone enters law school grappling with a touch of imposter syndrome, and as someone with a finance degree and limited legal experience, I often felt somewhat out of place. However, to put in such hard work and see those efforts come to fruition is an extraordinary feeling. This experience has only motivated me further, reinforcing my belief that I truly belong in this field and that I am capable of succeeding.
“I have a deep passion for the law, as I believe it serves as a vital bridge between everyday individuals and the complex legal landscape that can often feel overwhelming,” he adds. “Being the person who guides others—whether individuals facing personal legal challenges or companies navigating intricate regulations—fills me with excitement and a driven desire to help. It's about more than just providing information—it's about translating complex legal concepts into understandable terms so people can make informed decisions. It allows me to play a part in not only resolving immediate legal issues but also fostering a sense of confidence in my clients as they engage with the legal system. The law evolves continuously, adapting to changes in society, technology, and morality. This ever-evolving narrative presents an exciting challenge, as it requires constant learning and adaptation.”
He is drawn to the idea that every case, every law, and every legal precedent is intertwined, and contributing to this dynamic landscape is not just a career for him, but a powerful opportunity to leave a positive impact on society.
“Ultimately, my passion for the law is driven by a commitment to making the world a better place—one interaction, one case, and one legal reform at a time,” he says.
Currently, Grewe finds himself leaning towards commercial or corporate practice, in litigation or contract-based work; yet he remains open to exploring various fields. One area that particularly captivates his interest is data privacy.
“As this area of law begins to expand significantly across the United States, it's clear that data privacy will become increasingly relevant,” he says. “My exposure to it at Meijer sparked a deep interest in the subject, and I’m thrilled about the opportunity to join Warner Norcross and Judd, which also practices data privacy.
“Additionally, I have interests in labor and employment law, compliance, and many other areas. While I haven’t made a final decision, I am genuinely excited to embark on my journey in the legal profession.”
While he does not yet have a specific career goal, what drives Grewe is the desire to establish himself in a field where he can make a meaningful impact.
“I want to use my knowledge and skills to positively influence the area I practice in,” he says. “The idea of looking back and feeling proud of the difference I’ve made fills me with enthusiasm and passion.”
Away from law school, he enjoys spending time with close friends and family, that includes two younger sisters. The family lives in Macomb, although Grewe spent his early years in Warren.
He enjoys going up to the family cottage on Houghton Lake in summer for fun boat days and in winter for snowmobiling.
“I also love to burrow into my nerdiness and watch Marvel movies or play games with friends, great ways of stepping away from the law and decompressing after long days of studying,” he says.
His longtime passion has been hockey, playing from the age of 6 until stopping after two years on Grand Valley State University’s club hockey team.
“I loved being able to be part of a team and learn so much,” he says. “The invaluable experiences and life lessons have translated into school and my professional experiences.”
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