My
name is Adriana Barajas and I am currently a senior majoring in public service
and public policy with a double major in broadcast journalism. I was born into a humble family in a small
village in Sinaloa, Mexico. Like many immigrants my family immigrated to the
United States in search of a better future. As a six-year-old, I remember walking
through the desert on a cold and rainy night hoping to one-day reach, “el sueño
Americano” or “the American dream.” I believe that nothing is impossible for
those who have faith, work hard, and don’t give up. With that in mind I have
been fortunate to continue my education, while taking advantage of the many
opportunities that college offers.
This semester I was accepted to be part of the Congressional
Hispanic Caucus Institute and through CHCI, I will be interning in the office
of Congressman, Raul Grijalva, in Washington D.C. This is not my first time in
D.C. I lived there back in the summer of 2013 and at that time I was part of
the ASU Capital Scholars program. That summer I fell in love with DC and its
culture and living there gave me a new perspective of life and of what I wanted
to pursue as my career. During summer 2013 I was a press intern in the office
of Congresswoman, Ann Kirkpatrick and a communications intern for the Howard
Consulting group. I am very excited to be back in Washington D.C and I am
looking forward to new adventures, meeting new people and reconnecting with old
friends. However, this time I want to take full advantage of my time in D.C.
Three things I hope to get out of my internship
Networking – We all know that networking is very
important and that’s my main goal this semester. Last time I was in D.C I
networked a lot, but I didn’t keep in touch with the people I met. This time I
want put my name out there and get people to remember me. I guess my goal is to
build long lasting.
Lean in – I have been reading, “Lean in” by
Sheryl Sandberg and I have learned a lot so far. My goal is to start practicing
what I learned so far.
Grow and learn – Last but not least, I want to
grow and learn. I want to expand my knowledge in the field of public policy and
the legislative process.
