Spending a semester in Washington, D.C., was a defining chapter of my academic, professional and personal growth journey, one that has reshaped my aspirations for the future. From snowy days to the vibrant bloom of spring, my time in D.C. was truly an unforgettable experience. One of my favorite memories was experiencing the cherry blossoms in full bloom during peak season at the Spring festival near Capitol Hill.
As an intern at Crossroads Campaign Solutions, I had the unique opportunity to contribute directly to causes I care deeply about, particularly immigrant rights and civic engagement. Living and working in the nation’s capitol gave me a front-row seat to the democratic process and helped me realize just how crucial public service is to sustaining a just society.
One of the most powerful moments of my time in D.C. was helping organize my firm's Congressional Awards ceremony. Not only did I gain practical event coordination skills, but I also had the rare chance to meet and speak with elected officials, including US Representatives Gabe Vasquez and Chuy Garcia, and Senators Cory Booker and Alex Padilla. Engaging with them directly about policy changes and offering grassroots insights was both empowering and eye-opening. It affirmed the importance of bringing community voices to the halls of power and reminded me that advocacy doesn’t end at protests or petitions; it requires us to engage in policy discussions and legislative planning.
This internship also exposed me to the behind-the-scenes efforts that go into shaping political outcomes. I conducted in-depth research on congressional candidates in preparation for the 2026 election cycle, gathering the information needed to determine endorsements. This process made me acutely aware of how strategic public service work is, and how much thought and diligence go into supporting candidates who reflect our values and priorities. It wasn’t just data collection; it was a foundational piece of the larger democratic puzzle.
One surprising and deeply gratifying element of my time in D.C. was seeing just how many different forms public service can take. It’s not limited to elected officials or government employees, advocacy groups, campaign strategists, policy researchers, and communications teams all contribute to making democracy work. That realization broadened my view of what a career in public service might look like. I no longer see it as a rigid path confined to Capitol Hill; instead, I recognize a spectrum of roles that align with my skills and passions, particularly in policy advocacy and community engagement.
Living in D.C. also gave me a renewed appreciation for the complexities of U.S. history and identity. The significance of monumental symbols like the Lincoln Memorial or the Capitol Building linked with ongoing debates over justice, equity, and inclusion, reminded me that democracy is always a work in progress. This perspective instilled in me a deeper commitment to being part of that progress, especially for underrepresented communities.
Beyond my professional growth, my time in D.C. broadened my perspective on living and traveling across the United States. I enjoyed exploring beyond the Capitol and into neighboring cities like Philadelphia and New York. Experiencing the Big Apple was truly unforgettable, from tasting authentic New York-style pizza to simply walking the busy streets and riding the subway, it gave me a new sense of curiosity about urban life and culture. I also had the chance to try Philly’s signature cheesesteaks, adding a delicious (and iconic) culinary memory to my journey. These travels pushed me out of my comfort zone and inspired a deeper interest in discovering the rich cultural histories and diverse communities not just in the U.S., but around the world.
To future UCDC students, I offer this piece of advice: embrace every opportunity to engage and explore. Attend panels, explore neighborhoods, and have conversations with people outside your immediate circle. D.C. is a city of perspectives, and the more you seek them out, the more you'll grow. Your time here isn’t just about building a résumé, it’s about finding your place in the democratic process and broadening your horizons.
Ultimately, this experience reaffirmed my desire to pursue a career centered on advocacy and public service. I now feel a profound responsibility to use my voice and skills to shape a more equitable future. Washington, D.C., didn’t just teach me how our democracy works and inspired me to be a part of making it better.