What inspires you to work in public service?
I'm drawn to public service because I've seen how access to opportunity often depends on who understands the system and who is left out of it. My family worked multiple jobs to give me an education, yet language barriers and limited institutional knowledge closed doors we didn't even know existed. That experience shaped my commitment to advocacy and equity. Public service gives me the chance to turn that lived understanding into action, helping ensure that communities who deserve representation are heard, informed, and empowered.
What is your major, and do you have any minors or specializations?
Public Policy Analysis with a specialization in Public Policy & Law, Combined Program Masters in Public Administration
What coursework or academic experiences have most shaped your interests in policy, leadership or public service?
The course that most shaped my interest in policy and public service was Public Sector Data Science and Management (PUBAFRS 4040). Before taking it, I never expected to enjoy working with data as much as I did, but the course allowed me to focus on a policy issue I cared about and engage directly with research using tools like Python and Tableau. Working hands-on with data showed me how powerful research and quantitative analysis can be in shaping policy decisions and revealing real world impacts.
What specific skills or experiences do you bring to your internship?
I bring strong leadership and organizational skills shaped by both student leadership and professional experience. As Director of Governmental Relations in Undergraduate Student Government, I've managed student teams and led large scale initiatives such as organizing the Washington, D.C. advocacy trip. This required managing teams, timelines, and legislative connections in D.C. Through Community Refugee & Immigration Services, I've worked with diverse age groups, from children to adolescents, strengthening my ability to adapt my communication style and lead with cultural awareness. I also bring a professional foundation from my internship in the Governor's Office, where I handled administrative work and supported appointments, press materials, and vetting processes, giving me experience in fast paced, detail oriented government environments.
What strengths do you most rely on when collaborating with others?
When collaborating with others, the strengths I rely on most are my ability to listen closely and bring structure to group work. I pay attention to different perspectives and make sure everyone feels heard, then translate ideas into clear next steps so the group can move forward together. The balance with listening first, then organizing, helps teams stay both inclusive and effective.
What are your career goals and how do you hope this fellowship will support your professional journey?
My long term career goal is to work at the intersection of research data driven policy and advocacy, ultimately pursuing law school to strengthen my ability to engage in legislative decision making. I'm especially interested in using data to inform policy arguments and support effective lobbying efforts that shape equitable outcomes. This fellowship would support my professional journey by providing hands-on exposure to policy research, stakeholder engagement, and the real world application of data in advocacy settings. It would help me find the right settings to develop the analytical and communication skills I hope to gain.
What is your favorite or most impactful project from a previous role?
One of the most impactful projects I worked on was during my internship in the Governor's Office, where I supported the preparation of a press release for Spring 2026 Board and Commission appointments. I researched potential appointees, updated state records in internal databases, and assisted with vetting materials to assess qualifications for each role. What made the project especially meaningful was the opportunity to present my findings to the team, explaining much like briefing senior leadership, why each appointee was well suited for their position. Knowing that my research directly informed the Governor's final appointment decisions made the experience especially rewarding. It was my first experience seeing how research, accuracy, and communication directly contribute to high level government decisions.