Capstone Experience
FIU in Washington D.C.
In Spring 2024 I had the honor interning at FIU in Washington DC as their student programming intern. Throughout my time I was able to visit different offices of congressional representatives, set up meetings with Latin American embassies, and help set up events for different global issues. One of my most notable accomplishments during my time was being able to work with the embassy of El Salvador and Guatemala to discuss the democratic development of both countries. This experience greatly helped me to carry out my research project for the Washington Seminar course I took as my project focused on integrating more democratic systems within Central American countries.
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I always knew I wanted to pursue a career within politics, but wasn't sure how to get my career started. After moving to Washington DC for a semester I knew my career had much potential to thrive in that atmosphere. Thanks to FIU in DC I was able to expand my network and make meaningful connections that really helped me to jumpstart my career and seek the professional advice I needed.
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This internship experience has pushed me to continue challenging myself to reach out to professionals for meaningful discussions on issues I am passionate about. In addition, it has motivated me to continue looking for opportunities in Washington DC as one of my goals is to move there for my career.
Taiwan Study Abroad
One of the most impactful experiences I have ever had was being able to study abroad in Taiwan in the summer of 2024. I took two classes on learning the Mandarin language and a Taiwan culture class. Both of these classes pushed me to not only understand a new language and culture, but to appreciate the uniqueness of cultures. During my time studying abroad, I was also able to meet with two different think tanks: the Center for Asia-Pacific Resilience and Innovation (CAPRI) and Doublethink Lab. At my meeting with CAPRI I learned about global resilience and promoting innovative policy by drawing on the experience of the Asia-Pacific region through comparative public policy research. Doublethink Lab taught me about the importance of researching malign Chinese influence operations and disinformation campaigns, and their impact on strengthening democratic resilience against digital authoritarianism.
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Being able to live in a different culture for a month opened up my perspective on how other countries perceive each other as well as how they differ in terms of policy development or priority. This trip also reflected personal growth for me as I learned how to independently manage my life while fitting in to a culture I was completely new to. From not knowing a single word in Mandarin to practicing the language daily with strangers at supermarkets, streets, and metro stations, it motivated me to step out of my comfort zone. I was able to make meaningful connections and friendships, and it wouldn't have been possible without the hospitality and kindness from every local Taiwanese person I encountered.