Fall 2023 Archer Fellows
Kofi Nketia Ackaah-Gyasi | The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
Office of U.S. Representative Shri Thanedar (MI-13) Kofi Nketia Ackaah-Gyasi is a senior majoring in computer science at The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. He is an international student originally from Ghana, West Africa. On campus, Ackaah-Gyasi has been involved in research and has co-authored three published articles as an undergraduate student. Ackaah-Gyasi also served as the president of a Christian organization called Ambassadors of Christ. He serves actively in his church and loves his community. After graduation, Ackaah-Gyasi intends to pursue a Ph.D. in computer science to strengthen and impart his knowledge of the field as a professor. 
Rahma Arif | The University of Texas at Dallas
Office of U.S. Representative Lloyd Doggett (TX-37) / Asian Pacific American Institute for Congressional Studies Rahma Arif is a junior at The University of Texas at Dallas majoring in healthcare studies and public policy. On campus, she served as the service coordinator for the Terry Scholars Program and was vice president of the Minority Association of Pre-Medical Students. She also served on Student Government’s Campus Wide Accessibility Committee and the Diversity, Equity, and Belonging Committee, both dedicated to making UT Dallas accessible and inclusive for all students. Off campus, Arif held roles as an English tutor for low-income students in Garland ISD, a youth mentor for the Lions Club International, and a pro se asylum clinic volunteer. Arif recently interned with the Massachusetts Attorney General's Office under Quentin Palfrey as a grassroots campaign intern. After graduation, she plans to pursue a career in global health policy, with a focus on equity, advocacy, and access in healthcare and disability. 
Lance Bokinskie | The University of Texas at Arlington
National Defense University Lance Bokinskie is a senior at The University of Texas at Arlington majoring in political science with an international relations focus and a minor in military history. He has served as an active-duty Marine and a Texas Army national guardsman. On campus, he has served as an Army ROTC peer leader and as the vice president for the campus chapter of the Pi Sigma Alpha National Political Science Honor Society. He has also served as a department research assistant and a government relations intern for the North Central Texas Council of Governments Transportation Department, conducting state and federal policy analysis. Bokinskie’s research areas include national defense, information operations, and conflict simulation. He recently presented a case study of Russian intelligence support to the invasion of Ukraine at the Spotlight Student Research Forum. Bokinskie is pursuing an active-duty commission as a U.S. Army armor and military intelligence officer after graduation. 
Diego Castilla | The University of Texas at El Paso
Office of U.S. Representative Mike Gallagher (WI-08) / Washington Institute for Business, Government, and Society Diego Castilla is a sophomore at The University of Texas at El Paso majoring in political science with a minor in legal reasoning. On campus, he acted as secretary of the El Paso Mock Trial Association, where he competed twice last year (in Houston, Texas and Tempe, Arizona). He has also served as community service chair of the University Honors Council. Off campus, Castilla interned at Odessa Enterprises Inc., FMN Land, LLC, and Ripe Investment Group, LLC. After graduation, Castilla plans on attending law school and pursuing a career in election and political litigation. 
Catherina Chowdhury | The University of Texas at Austin
White House Council on Environmental Quality Catherina Chowdhury is a senior at The University of Texas at Austin majoring in international relations and global studies with a minor in business and certificates in business Spanish and elements of computing. Chowdhury is passionate about amplifying diverse voices and maintains a wide range of interests in journalism, research, child welfare, and cross-cultural communication. On campus, she has served on the Liberal Arts Council, consulted at the University Writing Center, led a freshman seminar course, and been involved with several campus publications. Off campus, she has interned for two political campaigns and has been an avid volunteer in her community. Last fall, she studied at the University of Pompeu Fabra in Barcelona, Spain, where she got the opportunity to improve her Spanish and pick up a little Catalan. Upon graduation, Chowdhury plans to pursue a career in multimedia journalism. 
Travis Christoff | The University of Texas at Austin
Presidential Campaign Travis Christoff is a senior Liberal Arts Honors student at The University of Texas at Austin majoring in government with a minor in business. Off campus, he has conducted research for Professor Karl Rove and was an economic development intern for Texas Governor Greg Abbott. Christoff is most proud of being appointed by Senator Cornyn in 2018 to serve as a U.S. Senate page and returned to Capitol Hill last summer to serve as a page coordinator for the Senate Republican conference. After graduation, Christoff plans to stay in Washington, D.C., to begin his career on the Hill. 
Emily Doan | The University of Texas at Austin
Office of U.S. Senator Tom Carper (DE) Emily Doan is a senior at The University of Texas at Austin majoring in government with a minor in sociology. Passionate about human rights and environmental policy, Doan has conducted research with UT Austin’s Innovations for Peace and Development Lab on global waste trade impacts on global south states and international dynamics regarding sustainability efforts. Additionally, Doan served as advocacy director for Change 1 Youth Services, an Austin-based nonprofit dedicated to helping foster care youth and is a member of UT Austin's pre-law honor society, Phi Delta Phi, and the Vietnamese Student Association. Off campus, Doan worked for Texas State Representative Jacey Jetton (HD-26) as a legislative aide during the 88th Legislative Session. There, she communicated with constituents and conducted policy research and analysis on health care and educational reform. Doan has also served as an intern for the Crimes against Children Division of the Fort Bend County District Attorney's office. Upon graduation, Doan plans to attend law school and pursue a legal career in human rights and environmental justice. 
Thomas Fugate | The University of Texas at San Antonio
The Heritage Foundation Thomas Fugate is a senior at The University of Texas at San Antonio majoring in politics and law with a minor in business administration. On campus, he served as secretary general of the Model United Nations Society and held roles as a mock trial captain, Pre-Law Association student mentor, and debate team member. Fugate has interned with the Offices of U.S. Representative Joaquin Castro (TX-20), Texas State Representative Steve Allison (HD-121), and Texas State Representative Terry Wilson (HD-20), who is his representative. In his free time, Fugate has been mentored by lawyers and judges in downtown Bexar County courtrooms and wrote articles for the South Austin Republicans Club. He is a graduate of the National Youth Leadership School, hosted by the Leadership Institute, and the 2022 Summer Law Preparation Academy. He is also a 2023-2024 Texas Civic Ambassador and Eagle Scout. After graduation, Fugate plans to work on a presidential campaign and attend law school. 
Sebastian Gallegos | The University of Texas at San Antonio
U.S. Department of Commerce Sebastian Gallegos is a junior at The University of Texas at San Antonio majoring in finance. On campus, he served as president of the UTSA Legal Advocacy Association, where he oversaw mock trial and moot court competitions. As a Texas Civic Ambassador, he actively engaged in voter registration efforts and advocated for issues related to homelessness and hunger within the UT San Antonio community. Gallegos has gained valuable experience through internships with the Office of Texas State Senator José Menéndez (SD-26), where he served as one of the main analysts during the 88th Legislative Session. He has also worked at the Law Firm Goodwin Webber PLLC and has been involved with nonprofit organizations including Leadership Initiatives, which is focused on education advocacy for women in Bauchi, Nigeria. Additionally, Gallegos has gained exposure to various legal fields, including immigration and tax law. In his leisure time, he volunteers with VOICES, the largest volunteering organization at UTSA, and has contributed as a volunteer judge in high school mock trial tournaments. 
Aine Garcia | The University of Texas at El Paso
White House Initiative on Advancing Educational Equity, Excellence, and Economic Opportunity for Hispanics Aine Garcia is a senior at The University of Texas at El Paso majoring in political science at her hometown campus. Living in a binational community and working at an immigration law firm exposed her to the realization that the U.S. immigration system needs help and that she wants to improve the lives of immigrants. Off campus, she is involved in Justicia Fronteriza, where she encourages her community to register to vote and be involved in their local elections while working on petition work to put ordinances on the ballot. She recently interned with a civil litigation law firm. After graduation, Garcia hopes to pursue a career in law. 
Frida D. Garcia Ledezma | The University of Texas at El Paso
The John W. Kluge Center at the U.S. Library of Congress Frida D. Garcia Ledezma is a senior at The University of Texas at El Paso majoring in geological sciences. Born and raised in Ciudad Juarez, Chihuahua, Garcia Ledezma later immigrated to El Paso, Texas, where she pursued her passions in environmental justice and space exploration. She has contributed to air and soil pollution research at the nonprofit organization La Mujer Obrera and conducted Mars-analog environment research at Johnson Space Center, where she investigated the correlation between agricultural soils, irrigation, and carbon dioxide production. After graduation, Garcia Ledezma plans to pursue a Ph.D. in geochemistry and aims to make meaningful contributions to the field and address pressing environmental issues. 
Aaiyma Ghufran | The University of Texas at Dallas
Office of U.S. Representative Shri Thanedar (MI-13) Aaiyma Ghufran is a senior at The University of Texas at Dallas majoring in psychology with a minor in political science. She is interested in immigration law, environmental policy reform, and other niches of law and policymaking. On campus, Ghufran served as a mentor for the Freshman Mentor Program and the John Marshall Pre-Law Society. She was also an active member of Women Pursuing Law, Model United Nations, and multiple Muslim student organizations. Off campus, Ghufran launched her tutoring business during COVID-19 to provide students with educational resources in math, English, and college prep otherwise impacted by the pandemic. She has also interned with the Children's Advocacy Center of Collin County as a family advocacy caseworker, the Collin County Law Group as a legal intern, and completed a position with Engage Workspace for Lawyers as a front desk coordinator. After graduation, Ghufran plans to be the first in her family to attend law school and intends to represent underserved populations within the realm of immigration law. 
Elaina Gonzalez | The University of Texas at Tyler
Cornerstone Government Affairs Elaina Gonzalez is a senior at The University of Texas at Tyler majoring in English with minors in Spanish and writing with technology. She is a Presidential Fellow and member of the UT Tyler Honors College. On campus, she worked in Academic Success as a college peer partner, the first student to ever fulfill that position. She was the opinion editor for UT Tyler’s student media, The Patriot Talon, and served as a senator for the College of Arts and Sciences in the Student Government Association. Off campus, she interned with the Daniel Boone National Forest for two years as a digital media specialist. Gonzalez believes that accessible and clear communication is a crucial part of every field and is passionate about research, writing, and learning. After graduation, she plans to go to graduate school and pursue a career in Foreign Service. 
Rajit Gulhati | The University of Texas at Austin
U.S. Department of Commerce Rajit Gulhati is a senior at The University of Texas at Austin double majoring in international relations and global studies and government. On campus, he has been involved with UT Senate and Model United Nations. Additionally, he has worked as a research assistant for Professor Hannah Walker and was a teaching fellow for Professor Virginia Brown. Off campus, he has interned with the Office of Texas State Representative Jasmine Crockett (HD-30), the Fort Bend District Attorney's Office, and Sri Preston Kulkarni’s congressional campaign. After graduation, Gulhati hopes to attend law school and pursue a career in constitutional law. . 
Manuel Guzmán | The University of Texas at El Paso
Organization of American States Manuel Guzmán is a senior at The University of Texas at El Paso double majoring in political science and Chicano studies with a minor in biology. On campus, he has served as senator-at-large for the Student Government Association, president of Texas Rising, vice president of Chicano Pre-Law Society, vice president of El Paso College Democrats, and was an undergraduate research assistant for the Department of Political Science and Public Administration. Off campus, Manuel was a Frontera Fellow and intern for U.S. Representative Veronica Escobar (TX-16) and interned for the Honorable Judge William Moody of the 34th Judicial District. In his spare time, Guzmán teaches civics and English courses for people obtaining their citizenship in El Paso, TX, and Las Cruces, NM. Upon graduation, he plans to attend law school and become an immigration attorney for migrants at the border. 
Graciela Hargrave | The University of Texas at Arlington
The John W. Kluge Center at the U.S. Library of Congress Graciela Hargrave is a junior at The University of Texas at Arlington majoring in interdisciplinary studies with concentrations in history and psychology and a minor in political science. On campus, Hargrave served as a peer academic leader to aid freshmen in their transition to college life. She was the proud secretary of the MavTHAT American Sign Language club during its first semester where she worked with the Deaf community to facilitate awareness and community. Following graduation, Hargrave plans to be a history teacher and conduct educational research to improve the education system so that it is fair and efficient. 
Brooklyn Hemphill |
The University of Texas at Austin CASA for Children of DC Brooklyn Hemphill is a junior at The University of Texas at Austin majoring in government with a minor in communication studies. On campus, Hemphill has been involved in Texas THON, Texas Tour Guides, ALDPES, and the FIG mentorship program. As an assistant for Dr. McDonald, she has studied the interwar period and analyzed militarized interstate dispute data for research disproving the democratic peace theory. Off campus, Hemphill has been on the Rob McCarthy campaign team and worked for the nonprofit Love Fosters Hope. After graduation, Hemphill wishes to pursue a legal career and advocate on behalf of children without a voice. Hemphill’s greatest aspiration is to start a nonprofit that fights against the practice of hoteling foster children. 
Kameesh Karim | The University of Texas at Austin
Near East and South Asia Center for Strategic Studies Kameesh Karim is a senior at The University of Texas at Austin majoring in international relations and global studies with a certificate in security studies. On campus, he served as the co-chair of the Academic Affairs Committee at the Liberal Arts Council and was communications director for the Residence Hall Council at Brackenridge Dormitory. He was also an undergraduate fellow for the Clements Center for National Security and worked as a student researcher for the Global Disinformation Lab. Off campus, he interned for Salman Bhojani's House District 92 campaign, where he conducted campaign and opposition research. After graduation, Karim plans to attend graduate school in Washington, D.C. 
Jasmine Kaur | The University of Texas at Dallas
Partnership for Public Service Jasmine Kaur is a senior at The University of Texas at Dallas majoring in political science. She spent her early childhood growing up near Toronto, Canada, before moving to Texas. Kaur recently studied abroad in Greece and Northern Macedonia to study nationalism and its effect on the physical landscape, how politics has redrawn maps to provoke conflict, and how tolerance and diversity has connected the southern Balkans. On campus, she is an active member of Model United Nations, Sikh Student Association, and Bujo (Bullet Journaling) Buddies. She is also a committee member at the Sikh Temple of North Texas, interned with the YMCA of Metropolitan Dallas, and worked full-time at Starbucks. After graduation, she hopes to pursue a job in cybersecurity policymaking or project management. 
Caroline King | The University of Texas at Arlington
American Public Health Association Caroline King is a junior honors student at The University of Texas at Arlington majoring in nursing with a minor in gender and women's studies. On campus, she served as a lead advocate for the Honors College Advocates, taught a college preparatory course to first-year students, and was the special affairs chair in Student Government. In addition, she wrote a literature review on rural midwifery practice as a student researcher. After graduation, she plans to practice as a labor and delivery nurse until she has clinical requirements to apply for graduate school or medical school, where she will specialize in women's health. 
Sachi Kulkarni | The University of Texas at Austin
Office of National Drug Control Policy Sachi Kulkarni is a senior at The University of Texas at Austin majoring in public health with a minor in healthcare reform and innovation. Kulkarni is passionate about eliminating health disparities, harm reduction, and public health education. On campus, she has served as the harm reduction director for Longhorn EMS and founded the Health Disparities Student Collaborative Texas, a student organization focused on educating students about public health issues. She is also a lead undergraduate research assistant for the Health Innovation Lab under the Addiction Research Institute. After graduation, Kulkarni plans to attend medical school and pursue a career in healthcare advocacy, policy creation, and public health. 
Esha Lohray | The University of Texas at Dallas
Office of U.S. Representative Colin Allred (TX-32) Esha Lohray is a senior at The University of Texas at Dallas majoring in global business with a minor in political science. On campus, she competed as a member of the semi-finalist Mock Trial team, worked with the Innocence Project, and led a team of students on an international project to create a marketing strategy for a Dutch firm producing noise pollution reduction technology. She has held internships with the Office of U.S. Representative Collin Allred (TX-32) and a family and immigration law firm. Lohray was an officer for Helping Hearts, a volunteer-based organization that aims to help the homeless and elderly. After graduation, Lohray aspires to attend law school and advocate for human rights in the future. 
Michael Lopez | The University of Texas at Austin
Advisory Council on Historic Preservation Michael Lopez is a junior in the Liberal Arts Honors Program at The University of Texas at Austin majoring in humanities. Raised near the southern border of Texas, he transferred to UT Austin after his freshman year at The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. At UT Rio Grande Valley, Lopez served as the treasurer for the Political Science Association, an organization dedicated to increasing civic engagement and awareness on campus. His childhood experiences with the legal system, including securing custody and surviving conversion therapy, led him to pursue a legal career as an avenue for change. Lopez has interned at the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas and at Aparicio and McLaren, a boutique transactional firm. He founded the UT Austin Matriculate Fellowship, a national nonprofit focused on increasing college access and equity. Lopez also volunteers as a lifeline responder for The Trevor Project. After graduation, he plans to attend law school and advocate for LGBTQ+ rights. 
Ezequiel Arnulfo Lozano | The University of Texas at Austin
Embassy of Mexico in Washington, D.C. Ezequiel Arnulfo Lozano is a first-generation college student and senior at The University of Texas at Austin double majoring in chemistry and government with certificates in Spanish for medical professionals and business. On campus, Lozano served as a first-generation representative in the UT Student Government, junior chair of the STEM Committee of TX Votes, peer ambassador for the University Leadership Network, and is a member of the Texas Blazers. With a focus on healthcare and immigration policy, he has conducted legislative research in the Texas House of Representatives. During the 87th Texas Legislature Session, he worked as a legislative aide to Texas State Representative Ryan Guillen (HD-31). Upon graduation, Lozano hopes to attend medical school and apply skills learned in Washington, D.C., to make informed policy recommendations to support immigrants' health. |
Aaron Lurin | The University of Texas at Austin
Office of U.S. Representative Mike Levin (CA-49) Aaron Lurin is a senior at The University of Texas at Austin majoring in political communication with a certificate in computer science. On campus, Lurin has focused on youth voter turnout as communications director and vice president of TX Votes. Off campus, he worked as an organizer for Texas Rising and as a fellow for Zohaib Qadri's city council campaign. Lurin also interned at the Texas State Senate and the City of Austin's Housing and Planning Department. After graduation, he plans to work on local campaigns and on increasing youth civic engagement. 
Maya Mackey | The University of Texas at Austin
The John W. Kluge Center at the U.S. Library of Congress Maya Mackey is a junior at The University of Texas at Austin triple majoring in government, history, and Plan II Honors with a certificate in core texts and ideas from the Jefferson Scholars Program and a minor in law, justice, and society. This summer, she deepened her understanding of civil rights and constitutional law by working for the National Prison Project at the American Civil Liberties Union. On campus, she served as the chief justice of the UT Austin Supreme Court, worked as admissions staff for her honors program, and led social justice service learning through the Community Engagement Collective. She is passionate about social and legal history and recently completed her research capstone on police brutality in Austin, Texas. After graduation, Mackey will go to law school to practice civil rights law, with her eye on becoming a federal judge. 
Justus Mendoza | The University of Texas at San Antonio
The Daschle Group Justus Mendoza is a junior honors student at The University of Texas at San Antonio majoring in politics and law. On campus, he founded a chapter of the pre-law fraternity Phi Alpha Delta, where he served as president. He is also a member of the Pre-Law Association and Hispanic Students Association. Mendoza has also worked as an office clerk for the law firm Hornberger Fuller Garza and Cohen Incorporated. After graduation, he aspires to attend law school and hopes to become an attorney who makes a positive impact in his community. 
Kacy Middleton | The University of Texas at Austin
U.S. Supreme Court Kacy Middleton is a junior in the Liberal Arts Honors program at The University of Texas at Austin triple majoring in sociology, government, and rhetoric. She has a strong desire to help equip her peers and community members to believe in their own possibilities. Off campus, she served as a legislative intern for the Office of Texas State Representative Ann Johnson (HD-134). On campus, Kacy served as the public relations co-chairman of the Pre-Law Division of the National Black Law Students Association Longhorn Chapter, a First-Year Interest Group mentor, and a member and mentor for the Fearless Leadership Institute. Upon graduation, Middleton plans to attend law school. 
Angelica Montes | The University of Texas at Austin
Office of U.S. Representative Shri Thanedar (MI-13) Angelica Montes is a senior at The University of Texas at Austin majoring in nutritional science with a certificate in social inequity, health, and policy. On campus, she is involved in Texas 4000 for Cancer. This past summer, Montes completed a 4,500-mile bike ride from Austin, TX, to Anchorage, AK, over the course of 70 days to raise hope, knowledge, and charity in the fight against cancer. In addition to her work with Texas 4000, Montes previously served as chief of Longhorn EMS, a student-led organization dedicated to campus safety and emergency response. Her efforts in pushing for an on-campus EMS responder initiative ignited her interest in health policy and pre-hospital care. Montes plans to dedicate her career to healthcare accessibility and health promotion. 
Mackenzie Muecke | The University of Texas at Austin
Office of U.S. Representative Kevin McCarthy (CA-20) Mackenzie Muecke is a senior at The University of Texas at Austin majoring in corporate communications. On campus, she served as the chaplain of her sorority, Zeta Tau Alpha, social media coordinator for the Texas Business Law Administration, and is a member of Phi Gamma Nu Business Fraternity. As a sophomore, Muecke worked as a student communications assistant for the Vice President for Student Affairs. Off campus, she joined U.S. Representative Michael McCaul (TX-10)'s midterm election campaign, which led her to work as the press intern for Texas Governor Greg Abbott during the 88th Legislative Session. She was recently selected as a student intern for Vinson & Elkins LLP in Houston, where she worked to understand the aspects of the corporate legal field, specifically pertaining to the energy and business development sectors. After graduation, she aspires to attend law school, work in corporate law, and eventually go back into politics and press. 
Maria Muñoz | The University of Texas at Austin
The John W. Kluge Center at the U.S. Library of Congress Maria Muñoz is a senior at The University of Texas at Austin majoring in international relations and global studies with a minor in government and a certificate in security studies. On campus, she has served as a campus ambassador, published researcher, election supervisory board member, and leader in a Latino faith-based bible study. After graduation, she aspires to work for the United Nations and work in multiple global projects. 
Lulia Pan | The University of Texas at Austin
TechCongress Lulia Pan is a senior at The University of Texas at Austin, pursuing a triple major in journalism, international relations and global studies, and Asian studies. On campus, Pan was actively involved in the International Affairs Society and Minority Women in Pre-Law. Moreover, she conducted research with the Global Disinformation Lab and Landlord Tech Watch. Previously, Pan served as a fellow at PEN America, where she contributed to their digital safety team. In addition, she gained valuable experience through internships at The Des, a criminal justice publication, and the Center of Technology Innovation at the Brookings Institution. Upon graduation, she intends to pursue a career in technology policy. 
Pranathi Pilla | The University of Texas at Austin
White House Council on Environmental Quality Pranathi Pilla is a junior at The University of Texas at Austin double majoring in computational biology and government. She is passionate about improving healthcare access and is interested in policy, bioethics, and research. On campus, she has served as a peer educator at the Longhorn Wellness Center, a team leader in Texas Engineering World Health, and as an officer for the Longhorn Alliance for Refugees and Asylees. Off campus, Pilla interned with the Center for Disease Control and Prevention's Division of HIV Prevention as a research assistant. After graduation, she plans to pursue a career in health policy. 
Ann Elaine Rogers | The University of Texas at Dallas
Bose Public Affairs Group LLC Ann Elaine Rogers is a senior McDermott Scholar at The University of Texas at Dallas majoring in computer science with minors in public policy and political science. She is interested in the intersection of technology and public policy, particularly data privacy and consumer protection. On campus, she has served on the Society of Women Engineers Industry Committee and worked as a mentor for the Young Women in Science and Engineering program. Off campus, Rogers has held internships with a software engineer at a Fortune 500 company and a technology consulting firm. In her spare time, she has volunteered with the American Cancer Society and UT Southwestern Medical Center. She recently studied internationally in Western Europe and Northern Africa and is an FAA-licensed private pilot. After graduation, Rogers plans to work in software engineering while pursuing a master’s degree in computer science. 
Shazmyne Rubio | The University of Texas at Arlington
House Democracy Partnership Shazmyne Rubio is a senior at The University of Texas at Arlington majoring in political science with a minor in English. On campus, she served as an outreach officer for the Russian Culture Society and has organized fundraisers for the I Care Ministry and United24 organizations for Ukraine aid and relief. Rubio has volunteered with Hagar's Heart, a nonprofit organization that donated aid for women and youth survivors of domestic abuse, and 22Kill, a nonprofit organization that raises awareness of veteran's suffering from mental health issues. Rubio is very interested in international relations and foreign policy and is a member of the Dallas World Affairs Council. Off campus, she worked as an assets protection specialist for a major retail company. After graduation, she hopes to one day employ her passions for international relations and Russian language studies by pursuing a career with the federal government. 
Isaac Salas | The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
National Education Association / SHLB Coalition Isaac Salas is a senior at The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley majoring in marketing with a minor in graphic design. On campus, he served as the president of Enactus, leading initiatives in his community focused on financial literacy for students, job readiness for neurodivergent individuals, and an annual food drive for those in need. He has served as chair for the Student Services Association Board, acted as historian for the Society for Human Resource Management, and worked as a program assistant intern at the College of Medicine. Off campus, he interned as a visual designer at Kemper and as a marketing intern at the Mission Texas Chamber of Commerce. After graduation, he plans to pursue a master's degree in marketing and to continue being a servant leader in his community. 
Samyuktha Senthil Kumar | The University of Texas at Dallas
Office of U.S. Representative Lisa Blunt Rochester (DE - at Large) Samyuktha Senthil Kumar is a senior National Merit Scholar and Collegium V Honors student at The University of Texas at Dallas majoring in neuroscience with a minor in public health. On campus, she served as vice president of the American Medical Women's Association and captain of the UTD Laksh, a nationally ranked dance team. As an undergraduate researcher, she analyzed chronic pain pathways related to diabetic neuropathy for the Center for Advanced Pain Studies. Senthil Kumar has worked as a COVID-19 administrative assistant, acted as Leadership Team Chair for the LLS - DFW area, and spearheaded a preventive heart health social outreach initiative. She is passionate about rectifying healthcare inequities for underserved communities at an institutional level. After graduation, she hopes to earn an MD/MPH dual degree and pursue a career in medicine and health policy. 
Aisha Sharif | The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
Alliance for Health Policy Aisha Sharif is a senior at The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley majoring in biology with a minor in political science. Demonstrating leadership, she has held positions as an AMSA officer and as a senator for the College of Sciences. Recently, she interned with the UTRGV Department of Immunology & Microbiology and facilitated groups at the Harlingen Children’s Bereavement Center. Sharif also enjoys volunteering for events held at her local mosque and campus. Through her experience with shadowing and gaining clinical experience, Sharif developed a passion for understanding healthcare access issues in underserved areas. After graduation, Sharif plans to attend medical school while actively participating in initiatives related to public health. 
Joshua Smith | The University of Texas at Tyler
Hudson Institute: China Center Joshua Smith is a junior at The University of Texas at Tyler majoring in political science with minors in international relations and psychology. On campus, Smith served as president of the UT Tyler Debate Team, is a member of the Honors College, and was a social relations officer for the UT Tyler First Generation Students Association, an organization he co-founded. Smith has a vested interest in international relations research and development, working closely with faculty members on globalization to discover its effect on international policymaking. After graduation, Smith hopes to enroll in a JD/MA dual degree program and pursue his interests in law, research, and policy. 
Vasundara Srivatsan | The University of Texas at Austin
Office of U.S. Senator Patty Murray (WA) / U.S. Department of Commerce Vasundara Srivatsan is a senior at The University of Texas at Austin majoring in government with a minor in business and public policy. On campus, she has been involved in UT Senate, Minority Women Pursuing Law, Seva Charities, and held an executive position as membership director for the Liberal Arts Council. Off campus, she has worked as a legal intern for Bustos Family Law Firm, a legislative aide for Texas House Representative Carl O. Sherman (HD-109), and recently interned for U.S. Representative Lloyd Doggett (TX-37) in his district office in Austin. After graduation, Srivatsan plans to attend law school and hopes to pursue a career in corporate law. She is passionate and excited to learn more about the policymaking process and political advocacy. 
Sonya Swami | The University of Texas at Austin
Alliance for Health Policy Sonya Swami is a senior at The University of Texas at Austin majoring in psychology with a pre-health professions certificate. Gathering experience in medical settings through hospital and hospice volunteering and as a medical assistant, Swami became passionate about exploring solutions for healthcare policy issues, such as drug pricing. While on campus, she has been the curriculum lead for the Campus Environmental Center’s Environmental Justice Collective and part of the UT Student Government Mental Health Agency. Swami is interested in neuropsychology and was a research assistant in the Developmental Cognitive Neuroscience Lab and at the Dell Medical School Pediatric Epilepsy Center. After graduating, Swami plans to attend medical school and engage in public health and healthcare reform. 
Jeffrey Vancil | The University of Texas at Dallas
U.S. Department of Commerce Jeffrey Vancil is a senior at The University of Texas at Dallas double majoring in public policy and philosophy with a minor in international political economy. On campus, Vancil served as founder and president of the university chapter of Citizens Climate Lobby. Off campus, he has worked as a firefighter in Dallas, Texas, with the Cockrell Hill Fire Department. He has also interned with the Travis County District Attorney's Office. After graduation, Vancil hopes to pursue a career in comparative policy study. 
Srikirthi Velichety | The University of Texas at Dallas
Federal Internship Srikirthi Velichety is a junior in the Collegium V Honors Program at The University of Texas at Dallas majoring in political science. On campus, she served as the president of Mobilize, Organize, Vote, and Empower (MOVE) Texas' student chapter. She has also helped lead the Model United Nations Team and served on the executive board of the John Marshall Pre-Law Society. Off campus, she has worked with MOVE Texas to encourage youth civic engagement. Velichety has always had a strong interest in the intersection of policy and law, heavily inspiring her extracurriculars. After graduation, she plans to attend law school to pursue a career as an attorney. 
Aryan Verma | The University of Texas at Dallas
Office of U.S. Representative Jasmine Crockett (TX- 30) Aryan Verma is a senior National Merit Scholar at The University of Texas at Dallas majoring in neuroscience. On campus, he served as co-president of Comets HELP, a program aimed at preventing delirium in hospitalized geriatric patients and was a teaching assistant for neuroanatomy. He founded Memories Matter, a student organization that partners with the Alzheimer’s Association to advocate for policies targeted at improving the lives of older adults with dementia. Off campus, he worked as a research assistant at the Institute of Exercise and Environmental Medicine and as a Brain Bee coach for the North South Foundation. Verma is passionate about aging policy and plans to attend medical school after graduation. 
Graisa White | The University of Texas at Austin
Akin Gump Strauss Hauer and Feld LLP Graisa White is a junior at The University of Texas at Austin majoring in government with minors in business and public policy and law, justice, and society. As a pre-law student, White has developed an interest in constitutional jurisprudence and governmental actors' obligation to the rule of law. To further these interests, she has been engaged with the university's chapter of Phi Delta Phi, a legal honor society, and has served on the student conduct board in the Office of the Dean of Students, where she helps advance due process in the university setting. On campus, White is affiliated with Texas Young Life, and she has furthered her passion for writing by serving as a consultant in the University Writing Center. Off campus, White is a member of the Pink Granite Foundation's mentorship program. The Foundation serves to connect women working in and around the Texas State Legislature and provide them with a supportive community as they further their respective careers. White recently concluded an internship with Blackridge Government Affairs, where she worked alongside the firm's lobbyists to research and pursue various policy goals throughout the 88th Legislative Session. Upon graduation, she plans to further her education by pursuing a graduate degree in legal studies or attending law school. 
Matthew Willis | The University of Texas at Austin
East-West Center in Washington Matthew Willis is a senior at The University of Texas at Austin majoring in international relations and global studies, government, economics, and Asian studies. On campus, he was a research assistant at the Global Disinformation Lab, research fellow for the Global Macro Team, and digital humanities intern for JapanLab. He was also a dais staffer for Central Texas Model United Nations. Alongside these roles, Willis interned at the U.S.-Japan Council, Texas State Capitol, and Our National Conversation. After graduation, he plans to attend graduate school and pursue a career focused on international economics research, national security policy, and U.S.-Japan and U.S.-China relations. 
Rana Youssef | The University of Texas at Dallas
Office of U.S. Representative Ilhan Omar (MN-5) Rana Youssef is a junior pre-law student at The University of Texas at Dallas majoring in literature with a minor in political science. On campus, she has served as vice president of Model United Nations and chair of Student Government’s Diversity, Equity, & Belonging Committee. Youssef has interned with the Warren Healy Law Firm, the Rockwall County Democratic Party, and County-Commissioner candidate Ericka Ledferd. Her hobbies include gardening, journaling, and painting. After graduation, Youssef aspires to further her education in law school and to pursue a career in international affairs. 
Olivia Zelling | The University of Texas at Austin
Reservoir Communications Group Olivia Zelling is a senior at The University of Texas at Austin double majoring in international relations and global studies and government. On campus, she has served as the DEI liaison for the International Relations and Global Studies Council as well as the Jewish affairs chair for Atidna, a grassroots campus-based initiative bringing Jewish and Arab students together for dialogue. Off campus, Zelling has interned with the U.S. Department of State, was elected to the Hillel International Student Cabinet, has served as an Ambassador Ronald S. Lauder Fellow and has interned in the Dallas County District Attorney's Office. Zelling loves a good Chai latte, going to the movies, and playing with her cats. After graduation, she plans to attend law school. |
