Daniel M. Balandran | UT El Paso
Criminal Justice Coordinating Council for the District of Columbia Daniel M. Balandran is a senior at The University of Texas at El Paso, majoring in criminal justice with a minor in intelligence and national security studies. In 2023, he earned an associate degree in multidisciplinary studies from El Paso Community College. On campus, he completed the FBI Collegiate Academy at UTEP and was a member of the Criminal Justice and Security Studies Student Organization. Balandran is actively engaged in coursework focused on criminal law, transnational threats, and cybersecurity. Off campus, he volunteered in community service efforts throughout the El Paso area. After graduation, he plans to pursue a career with the federal government in national security, focusing on transnational threats and intelligence analysis. 
Aline Boutros | UT Austin
Office of U.S. Representative Tony Gonzales (TX-23) / Keen Edge Strategies Aline Boutros is a senior at The University of Texas at Austin, triple majoring in government, Spanish, and international relations and global studies. She is also pursuing a certificate in business Spanish. She maintains a 4.0 GPA and is a Texas Leadership Scholar, Dell Scholar, LBJ Foreign Policy Fellow, and recipient of the Kindness To Action Elijah Knight award. Boutros has served as an academic and career mentor for Minority Women Pursuing Law, advocated for interfaith dialogue with Atidna International, and tutored refugee children through Teaching Refugees to Understand English (TRUE) and Casa Marianella Posada Esperanza. She interned with the American Academy of Diplomacy in Washington, D.C., and supported asylum seekers as a legal intern at Casa Marianella in Austin. Her academic research centers on gender equity, economic development, and regional conflict. Fluent in Arabic and English with professional proficiency in Spanish, Boutros is passionate about using her skills and experience to further diplomacy, human rights, and international public service. 
Nathan Branson | UT Arlington
National Center for Health Research Nathan Branson is a senior at The University of Texas at Arlington, majoring in political science with minors in Spanish for global competence, criminology and criminal justice, and law and legal studies. On campus, Branson has served as president and re-founder of the Rotaract Club, president of the Pi Kappa Phi fraternity, and vice president of the Honors College Council. Off campus, he worked as a student fellow for the Beto for Texas gubernatorial campaign. He later served as the Texas state director for Students for Kennedy, a national youth-led organization supporting Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s presidential campaign. Branson is passionate about addressing chronic health disparities, promoting educational equity, and expanding language access in underserved communities. After graduation, Branson plans to pursue a joint degree in law and educational policy. Branson ultimately hopes to become a civil rights attorney and advocate for marginalized communities across Texas. 
Jocelyn Bridges | UT Austin
Institute for Science and International Security Jocelyn Bridges is a junior Liberal Arts Honors student and Terry Scholar at The University of Texas at Austin, majoring in international relations and global studies with a minor in French studies and a certificate in security studies. On campus, she worked as an undergraduate research assistant at the LBJ School of Public Affairs and participated in the Undergraduate Research Apprenticeship Program on the Forgotten War Project. Additionally, she mentored elementary-aged refugees through Teaching Refugees to Understand English (TRUE). Off campus, Jocelyn has worked as a legislative aide for the Office of State Representative Salman Bhojani (HD-92) and as a political affairs intern for The Borgen Project, an international nonprofit that advocates for poverty reduction through legislation. After graduation, Bridges plans to attend graduate school and pursue a career in foreign affairs. 
Jerrad "Trent" Bush | SFASU
Office of U.S. Representative Tom Tiffany (WI-07) Jerrad "Trent" Bush is a senior at Stephen F. Austin State University, majoring in political science with a minor in pre-law. Bush spent a decade in the workforce before deciding to return to school as a nontraditional student. On campus, he is a member of the Pre-Law Society and World Politics Club. In addition to his years of work experience, Bush served as the constituent manager for the Office of State Representative Todd Hunter (HD-32) during the 89th Legislative Session. After graduation, Bush plans to attend law school and enter private practice. In his free time, he enjoys hiking, attending sporting events, and going to concerts. 
Jessica Chai | UT Austin
Brookings Institution - Strobe Talbott Center Jessica Chai is a junior at The University of Texas at Austin, double majoring in government and economics with a certificate in core texts and ideas through the Jefferson Scholars Program. On campus, she served as managing editor for The Texas Orator, a multi-partisan, peer-reviewed political publication, where she wrote editorials on topics including U.S.-China relations, border militarization, and foreign policy developments. Chai, a Clements Center Undergraduate Fellow, traveled to South Korea last summer to study the complex U.S.-ROK alliance. During this trip, she engaged with unique perspectives from the former national security advisor, scholars, and a North Korean defector. In previous semesters, she worked as an undergraduate writing consultant for The University Writing Center and as a Writing Fellow for the Plan II Honors Program. Off campus, Chai worked as a legislative intern for the Office of State Representative Ann Johnson (HD-134). Upon graduation, she plans to attend law school and work as a policy advisor. 
Akshaya Chandrashekhar | UT Dallas
Melanoma Research Foundation Akshaya Chandrashekhar is a junior at The University of Texas at Dallas, majoring in biology with a minor in public health. On campus, she served as the assistant administrative chief and EMT for the University Emergency Medical Response team, the treasurer of the UTD Bioethics Club, and a patient care volunteer at UT Southwestern Medical Center. As a researcher in the Integrative Laryngeal Biophysiology Lab, she assisted in clinical research targeting chronic vocal cord injury. She also volunteered at her local Baylor Scott & White Hospital, where she developed a passion for health equity and addressing health disparities through public service after connecting with patients. After graduation, she aims to become a physician and advocate for equitable health policy. 
Asa Clark | UT Tyler
Farragut Partners Asa Clark is a junior at The University of Texas at Tyler, majoring in political science with a minor in philosophy. On campus, he served as the academic chair of the Kappa Sigma fraternity and is a member of the Honors College. In May 2025, Clark embarked on a study away program in Italy with the Honors College, where he gained experience in comparative cultural studies. Off campus, Clark works as a barista at 7Brew Coffee and volunteers with his fraternity to enrich his community through restoration projects and labor services. After graduation, Clark plans to earn his master’s degree in political science and then attend law school to pursue a career in human rights law. 
Ángel Diaz | UT San Antonio
Washington National Cathedral Ángel Diaz is a junior at The University of Texas at San Antonio, double majoring in art history and museum studies. Off campus, they have worked at multiple museums, including the Institute of Texan Cultures, Ruby City—a contemporary art center in San Antonio, and the Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery. Diaz also contributed to UT San Antonio’s athletic videography production team, The San Antonio Film Festival, and SaySí, a tuition-free art program for underserved youth. They volunteered with several social justice organizations and judged at the San Antonio Black International Film Festival. Additionally, they served on the Fine Arts Dean Student Advisory Council. Diaz is the director and producer of the award-winning documentary "This is Not Medicine!", a film exploring the U.S. pharmaceutical system and the reinstatement of Indigenous medicine as preventative care. They aim to promote ethical representation and accessibility in museums, focusing on collaboration with Indigenous groups. 
Avin French | UT Austin
Kellogg Hansen / House Democracy Partnership Avin French is a junior at The University of Texas at Austin, majoring in government. As an undergraduate student, he has been a member of the university’s Texas Mock Trial team, competing nationwide to become one of the top five teams in the country. Off campus, he has worked as a research intern for the Office of State Senator Royce West (SD-23) and a fellow for the Austin-based communications firm Seeker Strategies. In Austin, French held a position as the elected precinct chair for the 314th student precinct in West Campus during the 2024 election. He most recently finished a six-week term abroad as a research intern for the National Democratic Institute at their facility in North Macedonia. After graduation, he plans to pursue law school and further his career in public policy. 
Alexa Gonzalez | UT El Paso
Department of Prevention and Community Health at the Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University Alexa Gonzalez is a junior at The University of Texas at El Paso, majoring in biological sciences with a concentration in biomedicine. She previously served as vice president of external affairs in the UTEP Student Government Association and was a member of The University of Texas System Student Advisory Council. Gonzalez also represented Latino students at the 2024 Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSI) Summit in Washington, D.C. She has gained international experience as a medical assistant intern at Ulsan University Hospital in South Korea and volunteered to teach English to underserved youth in Thailand and Indonesia. Gonzalez is passionate about advancing women's and children's health and aspires to become a physician and public health advocate. 
Joanna Guerrero | UT El Paso
U.S House Committee on the Judiciary Joanna Guerrero is a senior and first-generation student at The University of Texas at El Paso, majoring in political science with a minor in legal reasoning. On campus, she has been actively involved in the UTEP Student Government Association, where she served as a senator-at-large and international student representative. Guerrero also held the role of finance director for the Chicano(a)x Pre-Law Society. After graduation, she plans to attend law school. She aspires to become a prosecutor for child welfare cases, making a meaningful impact and promoting justice within the legal system. 
Shivani Gupta | UT Dallas
O'Neill Institute for National and Global Health Law Shivani Gupta is a senior McDermott Scholar at The University of Texas at Dallas, majoring in psychology with minors in political science and cell and molecular biology. On campus, she has served as president of the College Panhellenic Council, Student Government senator, and outreach chair for Service Dogs in Training. Gupta has worked with 180 Degrees Consulting to improve strategic outcomes for healthcare nonprofits like the Dallas Hearing Foundation. She has also volunteered at the Medical City ER and Cancer Resource Center, and taught ESL and citizenship classes through the Richardson Adult Literacy Center. This past spring, Gupta studied law, economics, and art at Universidad Carlos III de Madrid. Over the summer, she conducted Alzheimer’s research at Washington University in St. Louis, investigating the molecular basis of neurodegeneration. She aims to build a career that bridges her two passions—science and policy—to promote health equity and justice. 
Julia Heck | UT Permian Basin
Democratic Women's Caucus Julia Heck is a senior at The University of Texas Permian Basin, majoring in political science with a minor in finance. She holds a certificate in cybersecurity from Cosumnes River College and an associate degree from Northwest Florida State College. She studied law for two years through the Law Office Study Program in California, focusing on contracts, torts, and criminal law. She interned for State Senator Judith Zaffirini during Texas's 89th Legislative Session and has professional experience in law, marketing, event planning, and insurance. She has volunteered for She's My Daughter, a nonprofit based out of Washington, D.C., that combats domestic violence, Angel House Soup Kitchen in Austin, Texas, and Madisonville Care Center as an activities volunteer. Heck is passionate about public service and seeks to continue her trajectory to help others on a national and global scale through strategic diplomatic frameworks. 
Patrick Hughes | UT San Antonio
U.S. House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology Patrick Hughes is a senior at The University of Texas at San Antonio, majoring in mechanical engineering with a concentration in aerospace and a minor in civic engagement. A lifelong space enthusiast, he has pursued his passion through technical work in aerospace engineering. Hughes spent two summers interning at NASA’s Johnson Space Center, where he led the development and integration of a two-stage parachute system for the reentry of the NASA HyperSTEP Program’s CobraMRV Spacecraft. He also has extensive experience in the field of hypersonic aerodynamics research, working to utilize non-intrusive optical measurement techniques to characterize fluid flow in UTSA’s Mach 7 Ludwieg tube wind tunnel. After graduation, Hughes intends to pursue a doctoral degree in aerospace engineering and advocate for a responsible and effective national space policy. 
Ashish Jacob | UT Austin
Center for Strategic and International Studies - Global Health Policy Center Ashish Jacob is a junior at The University of Texas at Austin, double majoring in neuroscience honors and government. Committed to building stronger connections with his community, he served as outreach director for the Texas Triple Helix magazine, external relations coordinator for the Health Career Mentorship Program, and youth fellowship coordinator of the Austin Mar Thoma Church. On campus, Jacob mentored students in the Biobricks Freshman Research Initiative lab and conducted neurophysiology research as an undergraduate assistant in Dr. Hiroshi Nishiyama’s lab at the Center for Learning and Memory. His experiences volunteering at clinics in rural Peru and interning for the Office of State Representative Brooks Landgraf (HD-81) sparked his passion for global health and health policy. After graduation, Jacob plans to attend medical school and pursue a career that integrates scientific research with policy to advance health equity. 
Emmanuella Jaja | UT Dallas
Office of U.S. Representative Chris Deluzio (PA-17) Emmanuella Jaja is a junior at The University of Texas at Dallas, majoring in political science with a minor in criminology. She is a 2025 Initiative for Civic Leadership Fellow, where she interned as a legal assistant at the nonprofit Catholic Charities Dallas. Her legal experience also includes working in the Grand Jury division at the Fort Bend County District Attorney’s Office. On campus, Jaja serves as president of the National Black Law Students Association, outreach director for the Undergraduate Law Review, and peer mentor for the Undergraduate Success Scholars program. She is passionate about public service and equity in the legal system and plans to pursue a career in litigation to become a judge. In her free time, she enjoys going to the gym, taking long walks, and reading dystopian novels. 
Medhansh Kashyap | UT Dallas
U.S. Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions / Office of U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (LA) Medhansh Kashyap is a junior Collegium V Honors student at The University of Texas at Dallas, majoring in neuroscience. He served as vice president of writing for the Model United Nations team, winning awards at conferences in Portland and Washington, D.C. Kashyap served as co-president of Comets HELP, a UT Southwestern program focused on delirium prevention among older adults, and worked as a certified nursing assistant at a senior living center. He also conducted cardiac research at a Baylor Scott & White Heart Hospital and studied DNA regulatory proteins and their link to cancer using biochemical techniques at the D’Arcy Lab. He volunteered as an emergency medical technician with University Emergency Medical Response and served as an Eagle Scout and assistant Scoutmaster with Boy Scouts of America. These experiences have shaped Kashyap’s goal of pursuing a medical career focused on advancing preventive care and equitable healthcare access. 
Miguel Koch | SFASU
Office of U.S. Senator John Cornyn (TX) Miguel Koch is a senior at Stephen F. Austin State University, majoring in political science with a minor in Spanish. During his undergraduate studies, Koch gained experience in the legal field through internships at criminal defense and immigration law firms, where he observed court proceedings at the county, state, and federal levels across Texas. Additionally, he spent a semester working as a legislative intern at the Texas State Capitol for State Senator Robert Nichols (SD-03), focusing on veterans’ affairs policy analysis. On campus, Koch has been an active member of the World Politics Club and Pre-Law Society and has served as a supplemental instruction leader to help students in Texas and Federal Government courses. After graduation, he intends to attend law school and pursue a career as a criminal defense lawyer. 
Atahan Koksoy | UT Austin
The John W. Kluge Center at the Library of Congress Atahan Koksoy is a senior at The University of Texas at Austin, majoring in economics with minors in government, international business, and Italian studies. He served as a research intern for the Correlates of War Project (COW) in the Department of Government and an undergraduate teaching assistant for introductory courses in the Department of Economics. He also worked as a photographer at The Daily Texan, collaborating with editors, reporters, and other photographers to cover significant university events such as parades, protests, and visits by government officials and foreign dignitaries. His academic interests focus on intelligence, international security, foreign policy, military history, and economic development. After college, he aims to contribute to the foreign policy and national security communities by becoming a researcher at a think tank or government organization. 
Saniya Koppikar | UT Austin
American Enterprise Institute - Economic Policy Division Saniya Koppikar is a junior at The University of Texas at Austin, double majoring in economics and mathematics with certificates in applied statistical modeling and public policy. On campus, she was an editor for the Undergraduate Law Journal, a consultant with Texas Political Consulting, and a teaching assistant in the Department of Statistics and Data Science. During the 89th Legislative Session, Koppikar interned as a research assistant for the House Research Organization, focusing on policies related to public health, insurance, financial services, and energy and environmental regulation. Previously, she worked as a grant research and social media marketing intern for TrackGirlz, a Frisco-based nonprofit that equips girls with health, academic, and social tools through track and field. After graduation, Koppikar plans to attend law school and work in policy analysis. 
Andrew Laake | UT Arlington
Office of U.S. Representative Brandon Gill (TX-26) Andrew Laake is a senior at The University of Texas at Arlington, majoring in political science with a minor in economics. Laake is originally from La Grange, Texas. He graduated from Faith Lutheran High School of Central Texas. On campus, he conducted a research project with the McNair Scholars Program, analyzing the effects of age and income on voter turnout in the United States. Off campus, he volunteered as a political canvasser for the Office of State Representative David Cook's (HD-96) reelection campaign in 2024. Laake is a first-generation college student with plans to pursue a doctoral degree in American politics after graduation. 
Gaven Lopez | UT Arlington
Office of U.S. Representative French Hill (AR-2) Gaven Lopez is a senior at The University of Texas at Arlington, majoring in political science with minors in pre-law, history, and English. On campus, Lopez served as speaker of the senate and previously as parliamentarian in the university's student government. He also served as treasurer for the Pre-Law Society and participated in several campus organizations, including the Cornerstone Project and UTA Ambassadors. Off campus, Lopez served his community as a deputy voter registrar for Dallas and Tarrant counties. Throughout his undergraduate career, he has focused on uplifting others through mentorship and civic engagement. After graduation, Lopez aims to pursue a career in law and serve as a lawmaker focused on education reform. 
Gabriela “Gaby” Macías | UT El Paso
Office of U.S. Representative Craig Goldman (TX-12) Gabriela “Gaby” Macías is a senior at The University of Texas at El Paso, majoring in forensic science with a concentration in biology and a minor in political science. On campus, Macías has been deeply involved in various organizations, including but not limited to the Terry Scholars Student Organization and Yes, She Can!, where she served a year-long term as the outreach coordinator. While participating in these organizations, she interned at the Student Engagement and Leadership Center as the student organization support intern, served as a Hoover House Ambassador on campus, participated in the FBI Initiatives Program, and was an Undergraduate Fellow at the university, demonstrating her desire to give back to others. After graduation, she hopes to work for the FBI as a blood spatter analyst. 
Andrea Maldonado | UT Rio Grande Valley
National Hispanic Caucus of State Legislators Andrea Maldonado is a senior at The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, double majoring in political science and economics with a minor in legal studies. Andrea is a native of Matamoros, Tamaulipas, Mexico, and is passionate about supporting her fellow immigrant community. On campus, Andrea served as the president of the Rio Grande Valley Model United Nations, a role that earned her UTRGV's Student Leader of the Year award. She also represented UTRGV on the UT System Student Advisory Council, served as a senator for the College of Liberal Arts in the Student Government Association, and acted as a plaintiff’s attorney for the Mock Trial team. Off campus, she has gained meaningful experience as a paralegal at an immigration law firm, as a fellow for La Union Del Pueblo Entero, and as an advocate for immigrant rights with the Practice Mercy Foundation. After graduation, she plans to pursue her lifelong dream of becoming an immigration attorney. |
Jasbeth Medrano | UT San Antonio
Amica Center for Immigrant Rights / Washington Office on Latin America Jasbeth Medrano is a senior at The University of Texas at San Antonio, majoring in political science with a minor in criminal justice and a certificate in data science. Her lived experiences and direct work with migrant communities have shaped her advocacy interests in equitable immigration policy. Through community-based participatory research with the National Science Foundation on human rights abuses in the Paso del Norte region and serving as a legal translator and interpreter for American Gateways, Medrano believes that meaningful legislation must be crafted in collaboration with the communities it affects. 
Christina Mina | UT Dallas
Northeast-Midwest Institute Christina Mina is a junior McDermott Scholar at The University of Texas at Dallas, majoring in public policy. Mina is passionate about environmental and energy policy and has a strong interest in the intersection of law and emerging energy technology. Off campus, Mina has worked as a research assistant at Phillips-Marburg University, studying the impact of donor guidelines on natural resource management, and as an intern at Environment Texas, conducting policy analysis on energy infrastructure permitting. On campus, Mina was the education chair for the Center for Retail Innovation and Strategy Excellence (RISE) and the outreach coordinator for GlobalCPR, an organization that teaches free CPR classes across Texas. Passionate about community engagement, Mina volunteers with Intellichoice, tutoring students for the SAT, and has previously worked with After8ToEducate, helping recent high school graduates with career and education development. After graduation, she plans to attend law school and pursue a career in energy law. 
Nicole Morales | UT Dallas
The John W. Kluge Center at the Library of Congress Nicole Morales is a junior Terry Foundation Scholar at The University of Texas at Dallas, double-majoring in human resource management and global business with a minor in political science. She served as a service coordinator for the Terry Scholar Student Organization and as a secretary for Best Buddies, a nonprofit promoting community service and inclusion. Nicole is also a member of the Davidson Management Honors Program. As a first-generation student, she mentored first-year students as a family leader in the Undergraduate Success Scholars program. She interned with Opening Doors International Services, supporting pro bono asylum cases, served as a legal associate intern with Catholic Charities Dallas, and worked as an extern with the Jose Sanchez Law Firm, PC. She studied abroad in Toulouse, France, where she explored civil liberties and contemporary social issues in the United States and France. Morales is passionate about immigrant advocacy and plans to attend law school to pursue a career in immigration law. 
Julio Mujica | UT Austin
Office of U.S. Representative Henry Cuellar (TX-28) Julio Mujica is a senior at The University of Texas at Austin, double majoring in government and health promotion and behavioral sciences. As a first-generation college student, he is passionate about health policy reform and expanding equitable access to care, interests shaped by his experience working as a caregiver. Mujica recently interned in the Texas Legislature with the Progressive Caucus in the Office of State Representative Ana-Maria Rodriguez Ramos (HD-102). He previously worked with the Offices of State Representatives Salman Bhojani (HD-92) and Rafael Anchia (HD-103), supporting legislative efforts on public health and equity. He gained public sector experience through the City of Austin Public Health Department, contributing to community health initiatives. On campus, Mujica serves as a Longhorn Wellness peer educator and formerly mentored students in the First-Generation Living Learning Center. Over the summer, he studied abroad in Rome, where he explored global governance and moral leadership through a course on Pope Francis and the modern papacy. 
Ashna Murali | UT Dallas
Office of U.S. Representative Chris Deluzio (PA-17) Ashna Murali is a senior at The University of Texas at Dallas, double majoring in business analytics and supply chain management. She is interested in implementing corporate sustainability through both technological and policy-driven approaches. On campus, she served as a nonprofit consultant with Consult Your Community, was a peer mentor in the Davidson Management Honors Program, an executive officer at Alpha Kappa Psi, and the marketing director for the Global Mobility Club. Off campus, Murali completed several internships at Citibank as an analyst intern. Additionally, her passion for environmental responsibility motivated her to participate in corporate sustainability competitions, where she developed environmentally responsible supply chain programs. After graduation, Murali plans to pursue a career focused on addressing corporate environmental challenges by integrating business strategy with public policy solutions. 
Modupe Orekoya | UT Arlington
United Nations Association of the USA Modupe Orekoya is a senior honors student at The University of Texas at Arlington, majoring in nursing. Driven by her goal to amplify the voice of nurses in shaping healthcare policy, she became actively involved on campus, serving as president of UT Arlington’s Nursing Students’ Association. At the state level, she served as the northern regional director for the Texas Nursing Students' Association. She is currently researching the role of mentorship in fostering engagement and leadership among nursing students, reflecting her belief in the power of guidance and community. Off campus, Modupe works as a patient care technician at Methodist Dallas Medical Center and gives back to her community through volunteer service at The King’s Place International Food Pantry and Methodist Charlton Medical Center. After graduation, she plans to become a psychiatric nurse and pursue a doctoral degree in nursing with a focus on health policy. 
Isadora "Izzy" Paul | UT Arlington
The John W. Kluge Center at the Library of Congress Isadora "Izzy" Paul is a junior at The University of Texas at Arlington, majoring in philanthropy with a minor in Spanish linguistics and certificates in digital media and professional communication. She is passionate about bridging nonprofit leadership and public policy to address systemic barriers in underserved communities. On campus, she served as student director for Alternative Breaks, leading service experiences focused on civic engagement, and as a grant-writing intern for the Maverick Pantry, supporting student food security. Off campus, she serves as state policy director for What We All Deserve (WWAD), contributing to legislation that expands temporary assistance for needy families of formerly incarcerated Texans. Paul also served on the Arlington Community Court Advisory Committee and held roles with the Arlington Grant Review Committee, the National Council for Mental Wellbeing, and Young Invincibles. After graduation, she plans to pursue a master’s degree in public administration and attend law school. 
Darek Samuel Perez | UT El Paso
The John W. Kluge Center at the Library of Congress Darek Samuel Perez is a senior at The University of Texas at El Paso, majoring in psychology with a minor in criminal justice. On campus, Perez served as the inaugural president of the Texas Leadership Scholars Organization, the vice president of the Alpha Sigma Phi Fraternity, and the secretary for the Yes, She Can! student organization. He worked as a student organization support intern at the Student Engagement and Leadership Center, where he gave involvement presentations and managed organization requirements. Furthermore, Perez worked as an undergraduate research assistant, conducting research on the legality and morality of AI-generated deepfake revenge pornography. Additionally, he took classes in American Sign Language (ASL), which helped him develop his skills in the language. After graduation, Perez plans to attend graduate school and pursue a career in psychological research and education while obtaining a certification in ASL interpretation. 
Avighna Phanibatla | UT Austin
Office of U.S. Representative Joyce Beatty (OH-3) Avighna Phanibatla is a junior at The University of Texas at Austin, majoring in biology with a minor in English and a certificate in pre-health professions. On campus, Phanibatla served as the professional chair for the pre-medical fraternity Phi Delta Epsilon, has been involved in Students Expanding American Literacy as a student mentor, and has contributed to the Advocacy and Belonging Board of the Daily Texan. For the past two years, she has conducted research on mRNA screening as an undergraduate assistant in Dr. Andrew Ellington’s Molecular Biology Lab. Committed to advancing health equity, Phanibatla spent her previous summer volunteering as a patient advocate in Bellevue Hospital’s emergency department and led an initiative to improve palliative care education for patients at Tisch Hospital. After graduation, she plans to attend medical school and integrate her passions for clinical care and public health policy. 
Edwin Philip | UT Dallas
Office of U.S. Senator John Barrasso (WY) Edwin Philip is a senior McDermott Scholar at The University of Texas at Dallas, majoring in neuroscience with a minor in public health. On campus, Philip served as president of the UTD Intellichoice chapter, providing STEM tutoring to hundreds of underserved students across the Dallas-Fort Worth area. He spent two years as an EMT, gaining frontline experience in emergency care before transitioning to his current role as a patient care technician in the neurologic ICU at Baylor University Medical Center. At UT Southwestern, Philip conducted research on telomere biology and its implications in brain cancer treatment. In his free time, he trains as a competitive bodybuilder. After graduation, Philip plans to attend medical school and pursue a career at the intersection of clinical practice and public health policy. 
Michael Pozos | UT San Antonio
The John W. Kluge Center at the Library of Congress Michael Pozos is a senior at The University of Texas at San Antonio, majoring in public administration and policy with a minor in civic engagement. He is passionate about community building and grassroots organizing and has worked to engage communities both on and off campus. On campus, Pozos has held leadership roles in Prism, an LGBTQIA+ focused social group, and served as a student representative on the President’s Student Advisory Council and the Multicultural Advisory Council. In the broader San Antonio community, Pozos has worked as a youth facilitator for Fiesta Youth, providing a safe space for LGBTQ+ youth in the area. He has also been a longtime community organizer with the grassroots organization Mujeres Marcharan, organizing the annual San Antonio International Women’s Day March and advocating for proletariat feminism, workers’ rights, and LGBTQ+ rights. 
Paula Puente | UT Dallas
Fanatics Paula Puente is a senior at The University of Texas at Dallas, majoring in international political economy. During her undergraduate studies, she served as an outreach coordinator for The University of Texas at Dallas Undergraduate Law Review. Puente also took on the role of community liaison for the Association of Latin American Students. Off campus, Puente worked at Wells Fargo as a teller and volunteered as a canvasser for the Julie Johnson for Congress campaign in 2024. After graduation, Puente plans to attend law school and engage in public advocacy. She aims to specialize in international law, helping shape the country's foreign policy and participating in the International Court of Justice. 
Ricky Ramos | UT Permian Basin
United Nations Association of the USA / Lilly & Company Ricky Ramos is a senior at The University of Texas Permian Basin, majoring in political science with a minor in history. He was a Texas Legislative Fellow as part of The University of Texas System’s Texas Legislative Fellowship Program, where he served as a session supervisor in the sergeant-at-arms office at the Texas House of Representatives during the 89th Legislative Session. Ramos has also worked in pharmacy, construction, and retail management while attending school online. While interning at the State Capitol and attending classes full-time, Ramos worked to become a certified paralegal and Texas public notary. Ramos is passionate about public service and hopes to pursue a career in law and foreign policy, focusing on institutional reform and diplomacy. 
Kishlaya Rastogi | The University of Texas at Austin
Federal Internship Kishlaya Rastogi is a senior at The University of Texas at Austin, double majoring in government and sociology with minors in business, history, and social and behavioral sciences. He is also pursuing a certificate in security studies. He is an undergraduate fellow at the Clements Center for National Security and previously served as president of the International Affairs Society and vice president of the Liberal Arts Council. Rastogi held roles as a task team lead for the Global Disinformation Lab, where he analyzed global disinformation policies, and as a deputy team lead for Innovations for Peace and Development, where he coded European defense offset agreements. He also interned with the U.S. Department of State in the Bureau of East Asian and Pacific Affairs, where he prepared briefs on Taiwan’s relations with Pacific Island nations. After graduation, Rastogi plans to pursue a career in national security and foreign affairs with a focus on the Indo-Pacific. 
Sanjay Shori | UT Dallas
Office of U.S. Representative Tony Gonzales (TX-23) Sanjay Shori is a senior Collegium V Scholar at The University of Texas at Dallas, majoring in neuroscience. On campus, he founded the Community Health Advocate to address health equity issues in Dallas and is leading a quality improvement project for Comets HELP. Off campus, Shori worked at Baylor Scott & White Medical Center as a medical assistant and published research on improving access to lifesaving antibiotics. He also conducts non-opioid analgesic research in the Patwardhan Lab at UT Southwestern and has served as the assistant debate coach for Southlake Carroll High School’s Speech and Debate team. After graduation, Shori plans to attend medical school and hopes to pursue a career focused on providing preventative care to underserved communities. 
Nabeeha Siddiqui | UT Austin
Earthjustice Nabeeha Siddiqui is a junior at The University of Texas at Austin, majoring in environmental science with a certificate in public policy. On campus, she served as a student assistant for the Environmental Science Institute, where she assisted with Project CRESSLE (Community Resilience Integrated into an Earth System Science Learning Ecosystem) and community outreach events such as Hot Science Cool Talks. She also served as a First Year Interest Group mentor and worked for UT Farm Stand as a sustainability student assistant, collaborating with a team of students to host biweekly farmers markets selling campus-grown produce and local goods. As a student at the Jackson School of Geosciences, Siddiqui has performed fieldwork at Waller Creek and across the Texas Hill Country, developing a strong commitment to experiential learning and hands-on understanding of environmental challenges. After graduation, Siddiqui plans to attend law school and pursue a career in public interest environmental law. 
Apoorva Subramanian | UT Austin
Office of U.S. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (NY-8) Apoorva Subramanian is a junior at The University of Texas at Austin, double majoring in public health and government with a minor in business. On campus, she served as an academic affairs chair on the Liberal Arts Council and as a harm reduction instructor for Longhorn EMS. Subramanian worked as a legislative intern for the Office of State Representative Ray Lopez (HD-125) and as a research assistant at The University of Texas School of Public Health, where she analyzed barriers to mental healthcare access among underserved adolescents. Subramanian is passionate about exploring the connection between healthcare and legislation and plans to pursue a career in public service and policy at the national level. 
Ren Szabo | UT Dallas
U.S. Commission on Civil Rights Ren Szabo is a senior McDermott Scholar at The University of Texas at Dallas, double majoring in political science and psychology. Off campus, he interned as an advocacy associate at the Dallas Area Rape Crisis Center, researching local sexual assault cases, managing volunteers, and supporting survivors of sexual violence. He also worked as an outreach intern at Dallas Hope Charities, a nonprofit fighting LGBTQ+ youth homelessness. Additionally, Szabo developed a passion for mentorship through volunteering as a mock trial coach and a counselor at Camp Haven, a camp for queer youth. He has studied abroad in Germany twice, most recently at Philipps-Universität Marburg in Marburg, taking courses focused on the German language and Germany’s political system. After graduation, Szabo plans to pursue his interests in community work, therapy, and LGBTQ+ issues. 
Hayden Trost | UT Dallas
Western Skies Strategies Hayden Trost is a junior Collegium V Scholar at The University of Texas at Dallas, majoring in economics with a minor in public policy and political science. On campus, she competed on the Women's Golf team and served as an officer on the Student Athlete Advisory Committee. Off campus, Trost gained professional experience as an intern at Big Sky Economic Development in her hometown of Billings, Montana. There, she researched state legislative initiatives and contributed to passing a resolution supporting Medicaid expansion. Trost also worked on developing an urban greenhouse that benefits a local senior living facility and school district. Through these experiences, Trost has developed a strong appreciation for community development, and as an aspiring lawyer, she aims to use policy and law to help communities thrive. 
Andrea Valdez Torres | UT Tyler
Embassy of Mexico Andrea Valdez Torres is a senior at The University of Texas at Tyler, majoring in political science with a minor in pre-law. She is the founder and president of East Texas Monarchs, a youth-led nonprofit that supports undocumented students through advocacy and access to resources. On campus, she served as a junior class at-large senator and a judicial branch justice in the Student Government Association. Valdez Torres has presented original research on U.S. immigration policy at the Midwest Political Science Association Annual Conference and received the Faculty Award for Student Research Distinction. She has participated in leadership programs including Immigrant Rising’s Pre-Law Boot Camp, United We Dream’s Summer of Dreams, and NEW Leadership® Texas. As a Model United Nations delegate, she received a Position Paper award and was part of a Distinguished Delegation at NYU’s collegiate conference. After graduation, she plans to attend law school and pursue a career in diplomacy. 
Leobardo Valera Marquez | UT El Paso
Office of U.S. Representative Veronica Escobar (TX-16) Leobardo Valera Marquez is a junior at The University of Texas at El Paso, majoring in political science with a minor in legal reasoning. Valera, who was born in Caracas, Venezuela, became passionate about politics early in life, envisioning a free and democratic Venezuela. He moved to the United States in 2013 with his family and now aims to serve and improve the lives of the American people who welcomed him, while also supporting Venezuelan immigrants seeking opportunity in the United States. To prepare for this higher calling, Valera participated in the El Paso Mock Trial Association and, in the summer of 2024, worked at U.S. Representative Veronica Escobar’s (TX-16) campaign office as a Frontera Fellow. Additionally, he has worked for family lawyers in El Paso, expanding his legal knowledge. He hopes to practice law before entering politics. 
Isabel Vuittonet | UT Rio Grande Valley
National Hispanic Caucus of State Legislators Isabel Vuittonet is a senior at The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, majoring in political science with a minor in environmental studies. In high school, she worked as a student mentor for Harlingen Consolidated Independent School District, providing academic support and enrichment for low-income children through an after-school program. Over the past five years, Vuittonet has gained customer service experience as a cashier at H-E-B. In 2024, she interned with the Cameron County Elections Department, assisting with primary elections and preparations for the general election. She also trained as a poll worker and served as an alternate judge at a voting site. Vuittonet further advocated for children’s well-being as a child advocate with the Young Center for Immigrant Children’s Rights, collaborating with social workers and attorneys. She plans to pursue a master’s degree in political science, focusing on governance and the policy process. 
Megan Wackerman | UT Arlington
Office of U.S. Representative Craig Goldman (TX-12) Megan Wackerman is a senior at The University of Texas at Arlington, majoring in political science with a minor in law and legal studies. On campus, she served as president of the National Political Science Honor Society and the Society of Political Affairs. During her term, Wackerman invited an Arlington City councilman and the mayor of Mansfield to speak to students about the importance of civic engagement and running a campaign. She also participated in the Pre-Law Society and Women in Law. Wackerman gained on-campus experience as a research assistant, conducting data collection on public opinion following key Supreme Court decisions. Off campus, she worked as a legal intern for two Harris Cook firms. After graduation, Wackerman plans to attend law school and pursue a career in business law. |
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