Finding Purpose in Higher Ed Policy

This summer I have been interning at UnidosUS and it has been a mix of learning, adjusting, and feeling inspired. UnidosUS is the largest Latino civil rights organization in the United States that does research, advocacy, and creates programs to challenge the social, economic, and political barriers that affect Latinos in the United States. I did not fully know what to expect going in, but right away I felt welcomed by the staff and supported by the environment. It has only been a couple of weeks, but I already feel like I am part of something bigger than myself. Being in a space that uplifts and advocates for the Latino community is meaningful, especially as a first-generation college student from a farmworker background. To me, this is not just about getting work experience, it’s something that feels personal.

This summer, I am working on higher education policy. Most of my work so far has focused on research and writing. I have been looking into proposed changes to federal policies like Public Service Loan Forgiveness and income-driven repayment plans. My project for the summer is a policy memo on the closures of Latino Student Centers and why these spaces are important. As of right now I am only gathering research to support the different policies I want to propose. It is very interesting to be working in higher education policy since this is something that is currently affecting me as a first generation college student. I have learned how important it is to stay updated on what is happening at the Department of Education and to think critically about how policies impact real people, especially students and families from underserved communities.

What has made this experience even better is the people I have met. The staff here are smart, passionate, and down to earth. Whenever I am in meetings with them, I can see how passionate they are about their work the way that they speak about it. They have taken the time to explain things, offer advice, and share their own journeys. My supervisor is Magin Sanchez, he is a policy analyst in higher education, and he has been a great mentor. He is always sharing his own experiences, giving me advice, and offering real-world insights. UnidosUS has already made a big impression on me. I can tell that everything they do is grounded in purpose and a deep commitment to the Latino community. I feel proud to be contributing in any way I can. We are halfway through the summer, but this experience is already shaping how I think about policy, advocacy, and the kind of work I want to do in the future.