What inspires you to work in public service?
I am inspired to work in public service by the values of service and duty to others that were modeled in my community. Those examples shaped my sense of responsibility and motivate me to pursue a career dedicated to helping others.
What is your major, and do you have any minors or specializations?
Political Science (Bachelor of Science specialization), Minor in Spanish and Public Policy
What coursework or academic experiences have most shaped your interests in policy, leadership or public service?
My coursework in data analytics have inspired my interests in using data to support stronger campaign strategies. With a combination of qualitative and quantitative work, I feel that election strategies can be better targeted to what the people want from their representatives.
What specific skills or experiences do you bring to your internship?
As a data intern this semester, I bring both technical and qualitative skills. I can analyze hard numbers and produce reports on others' findings to assist in campaign operations.
What strengths do you most rely on when collaborating with others?
When working in a team, I rely most on my clear communication style. I try to present all the facts up front, so that the group can work towards a decision. This clear communication can focus discussions towards the main issue, and avoids confusion during collaboration.
What are your career goals and how do you hope this fellowship will support your professional journey?
I plan on becoming a Political Analyst, working with public polling data to make recommendations to political campaigns. This fellowship placed me with a team to practice just that, which I hope will give me the insight necessary to pursue this career long-term.
What is your favorite or most impactful project from a previous role?
As an Intern for Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities, I worked to analyze participant data to find trends. My findings revealed some gaps in the agency's services, but more importantly, they revealed previously unknown patterns that could help guide future policies.