Matsui Center Cal-in-Sacramento Fellows

Irene Fernandez is a second-year double majoring in political science and psychology. Growing up in an immigrant household in Orange County, she witnessed first-hand the challenges underrepresented communities face. Coming from a predominantly Latine community shaped her interest in public policy and desire to serve others through public service. Her main policy interests include immigration rights, environmental justice, and criminal justice. On campus, she is an active member of ACLU, serving on the Racial Justice Committee. Being in the ACLU has...

Eamon Jahouach is a third-year student majoring in environmental economics and global studies. His main interests lie in transportation and climate policy. He hopes to work towards solutions for the climate crisis that promote equity and support the development of livable communities. He is interested in finding ways to improve government function to help deliver benefits to underserved communities with fewer delays and cost overruns.

He is currently an intern serving the people of his hometown at the Oakland Department of Transportation. He supports the department’s...

Growing up in severe poverty, Zoe was determined to build a better life for herself. Born in California but raised in Mexico, she did not have the privilege of attending school after the 4th grade. Thankfully, Zoe's perseverance led her to find a way back to the states, where she attended a continuation school at the age of 16. In just two years, she was able to graduate high school and obtain a scholarship for a local community college in the Central Valley.

Zoe's own struggles with education have not only resulted in an immense appreciation for it, but have inspired her to...

Amy Lee is a current second-year majoring in Legal Studies with minors in Asian American & Asian diaspora studies and education. She hopes to attend law school with an aspiration to work as a public defender in the future. While always having an innate interest in the legal field, her specific passion for criminal justice and public defense began after being exposed to the harsh realities and inequalities of the criminal justice system and the carceral state through classes, extracurriculars, and the media. She hopes to represent or assist those who do not have access to legal...