Cadet Gains Real-World Experience Through Internship with Audrain County Prosecuting Attorney's Office

Missouri Military Academy (MMA) Cadet Trey Rudolph, a senior from Kansas City, Missouri, is gaining invaluable hands-on experience in his internship at the Audrain County Prosecuting Attorney's Office. Working under the mentorship of Jacob Shellabarger, the internship offers Cadet Rudolph a practical glimpse into the legal profession. 

Cadet Rudolph’s interest in law was sparked while taking a criminal justice class at William Woods University through MMA’s Triumph Program, where he discovered a genuine passion for the field.

“I first became interested in this internship when I had a criminal justice class and found that I really like it, and I am pretty good at it,” Cadet Rudolph said. His internship runs through the first semester of his senior year, with a schedule beginning at 7:40 a.m. and ending at 11 a.m. each day. 

A Unique Perspective on Law

Shellabarger, who is also an MMA parent, noted qualities in Cadet Rudolph that made him well-suited for the internship. “I have always appreciated his curiosity,” Shellabarger said. “He’s always wondering how and why things are done a certain way. This interest in something as complex as the legal system is a real asset.”

Cadet Rudolph’s natural confidence and direct approach have been instrumental to his internship success. To tailor the internship for a high school student, Shellabarger started the internship by discussing their goals and aspirations.

“We talked at the beginning about what he wanted to accomplish, and we’ve tried to create experiences that help him learn more about the legal system and working in a legal office,” Shellabarger said.

Observation is a crucial part of the experience, and Shellabarger encourages interns to ask questions and engage deeply with the cases they encounter.

Diverse Responsibilities and Skills Development

Cadet Rudolph has taken on various responsibilities that are essential to the office’s operations. 

“He is helping us a great deal with organization,” Shellabarger said. “Sometimes that means recording court proceedings to support our computer records, and other times, he’s organizing our vault for long-term records storage.” Cadet Rudolph also assists in updating calendars with reminders for upcoming cases.

“My main tasks as an intern are scheduling some events, being a second set of eyes on certain cases, putting together juror packets, and filing older closed cases,” Cadet Rudolph said. These tasks offer him a comprehensive view of the day-to-day workings in a legal office.

Real-World Experience and Career Clarity

Internships like Cadet Rudolph’s are crucial for cadets exploring future careers. “Sometimes, being a part of something you really think you want to do is clarifying,” Shellabarger said. “Although much of what we do is routine, there are moments that require quick, rational and focused decisions under pressure.” 

This exposure helps cadets assess whether their career aspirations align with the practical realities of the profession. Shellabarger emphasized the importance of understanding a job’s fit and recognizing when a role may not align with one's strengths or interests.

As a parent of an MMA cadet, Shellabarger values the Academy's focus on integrity and respect. “Cadets learn intellectual consistency, respect for all people, and being guided by truth,” he said. “I’m encouraged by watching cadets grow into young men of courage, integrity and honor.” He believes these qualities are essential in any professional setting.

Growth and Development

Cadet Rudolph’s time at MMA has equipped him to excel in his internship. Shellabarger has witnessed Cadet Rudolph’s growth throughout the experience. “Cadet Rudolph is willing to ask questions, understand a process and stick to a task until it’s done,” he said. Cadet Rudolph’s humility and confidence have made him a valuable part of the team. “He doesn’t exhibit typical teen uncertainty; he approaches learning with a humble confidence.” 

Cadet Rudolph is proud of the skills he has developed during his internship. “I take pride in my work and really enjoy my willingness to jump in and learn through various means: reading, observation and working on assigned tasks,” he said. Looking ahead, Cadet Rudolph hopes to pursue a degree in criminal justice and eventually attend law school.

His advice for fellow cadets? “Make sure you are squared away at all times because you don’t know who is watching,” he said. “Do something you are passionate about, not just for appearances, as this can hinder your progress.”

Through experiences like this internship, MMA demonstrates its commitment to preparing students for successful futures. Cadet Rudolph’s journey exemplifies the Academy’s dedication to fostering the growth of young leaders ready to make a positive impact in their communities.

“We need good citizens who are willing to work in public service,” Shellabarger said. “It’s always right to ask questions and make sure our government functions as it should.” 

MMA came to be through the support and vision of the Mexico community. Thank you to organizations and individuals, such as Audrain County Prosecuting Attorney Jacob Shellabarger, for continuing to support our cadets and mission.

Founders' Day is Nov. 22. Learn more about our founding. Will you help build upon the legacy of our founding community? Your support is needed to make a difference for cadets like Trey Rudolph.

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