Congresswoman Lucille Roybal-Allard (CA-34) thanks 20-year-old Vanessa Chavez, a graduate of Downey High School in the 34th Congressional District in Los Angeles, for her helpful assistance as an intern in her Washington, D.C. office this spring.
An upcoming junior at the University of California, Irvine, Vanessa is one of approximately 20 students participating from UC Irvine in the competitive University of California Washington D.C. Spring Internship Program.
"Internships in congressional offices provide a unique opportunity for young people to learn first-hand about public service and how our government operates," Congresswoman Lucille Roybal-Allard said. "I am very proud of Vanessa. She is among the many bright students with leadership potential from our community and state who will hopefully take what they've learned as part of this program and return home more knowledgeable about the process and better prepared to one day serve their communities and make a difference."
Majoring in International Studies with a minor in Conflict Resolution, Vanessa hopes to one day apply her studies in graduate school. She is also involved in two student organizations at UC Irvine. Global Connect places students in local high schools as global affairs instructors and the Community Service and Leadership Program exposes students to various local volunteer opportunities throughout the community.
During her three-month internship, Vanessa also completed a UC course toward graduation.
As an intern in the congresswoman’s office, Vanessa performed a wide variety of tasks, such as drafting letters, conducting legislative research, attending legislative briefings and press conferences as well as other office administrative duties.
“I am grateful that the congresswoman and her staff gave me the opportunity to intern for them,” Vanessa Chavez said. “My experience in Washington, D.C. was eye opening and very educational about the daily workings of a congressional office.”
Students who are interested in internship opportunities in the congresswoman's district or Washington, D.C. offices are encouraged to call the congresswoman's district office at (213) 628-9230.
