As an intern this summer at the offices of California State Assemblyman Dante Acosta and Congressman Steve Knight, I had the unique opportunity of experiencing my lifelong passion for public service.

 

Working for Assemblyman Acosta, I attended town hall meetings and ribbon-cutting ceremonies and networked with local government employees. I presented certificates to local businesses and I represented the office of Mr. Acosta with confidence, professionalism, and integrity. My first town hall meeting was an eye-opening experience that allowed me to listen to the concerns that other individuals living in my community shared, as well as gain insight into how an assemblyman responds to questions and even criticism with poise and humility. In the office of Congressman Steve Knight, I was tasked with answering calls from constituents and assisting with casework. I had the chance to see the faces of individuals who feared deportation and Mr. Knight’s plan for allowing them to resume their lives in this country.

 

As an aspiring public servant, I want to impart compassion, confidence and hope to residents in my district. I dream of becoming a congresswoman and ultimately, the Secretary of State. As the former, I want to establish a unified district of constituents, one in which political affiliation takes a back seat to actually solving the issues facing the lives of community members. My experiences in leadership and politics, combined with my history of academic success, have prepared me to take the next step toward achieving my goals at UCLA and beyond.