Emily Zambrano is a proud Mexican-American and first-generation student part of UC Berkeley’s class of 2026, earning her B.A. in Political Science, with a concentration in American politics, and minoring in Public Policy. She aspires to launch a career in public service and law guided by the principles of equity, justice, accountability, and compassion. Her fellowships with the Matsui Center, grounded in community and mentorship, including the 2025 Cal-in-Sacramento program and now a part of the 2026 cohort of Democracy Camp in DC, have been instrumental in her development and growth as a young professional. These opportunities have nurtured her skills in analytical research, communication, community building and outreach. Emily will pursue a master’s degree in Public Policy upon graduation, and afterwards a Juris Doctor degree, to advance her leadership capacity in advocating for the equal and fair treatment of marginalized communities with transparent and actionable solutions.
Having been born and raised in California’s Northern Central Valley, she hopes to especially be able to meaningfully serve and give back to her Latine community, which has played a pivotal role in propelling her to where she is today, and influencing her passion for social justice. Her priority policy areas include immigration reform, civil rights protection, economic justice, and improving access to higher education, all with the intention of uplifting historically underserved populations at a system-wide scale; issues she strives to tackle head-on at the state and federal level for years to come.
Major(s): Political Science
Minor(s): Public Policy