Intern Alumni
From the halls of the California State Capitol to community-led movements across the nation, our internship program is proud to foster the next generation of public servants, advocates, and civic leaders. This page celebrates the incredible journeys of our intern alumni. Explore their stories and see where public service can take you!
Anisha Vikash
Education: UC Davis, Political Science
Office: API Legislative Caucus Institute
Post-Internship Plan: Fellow with Representative Mike Thompson
"I am honored to have worked with my API community through the API Legislative Caucus Institute. This internship has guided me towards understanding different paths that work hard to uplift our community through public service."
Anderson Amiya
Education: UC Davis, Political Science and Economics
Office: Congressman Ami Bera
Post-Internship Plan: International Relations in Asia
"This internship has taught me so much about how I should hold myself, how to make meaningful connections to further my career, and how to conduct myself in a professional atmosphere. It's been amazing getting to do work that concerns both of my degrees, working in federal legislation and working on fiscal policy. I am super excited to see what doors this internship opens for me in the future."
Anne Harlan
Education: UC Berkeley, Economics and Anthropology
Office: Assemblymember Avila Farias
Post-Internship Plan: Field Representative for Assemblymember Avila Farias
"Before starting my internship program with API Advocates, I struggled to find a place for myself within the policy world where I felt my passions and skills were valued and recognized. This program uplifted me to have confidence to make space for myself in legislative spaces and instilled in me that my story matters. I now feel comfortable entering into these spaces and contribute my lived experience to the legislative process. I am so grateful for the mentorship that the API Advocates team has provided me, it is because of them that I felt prepared and excited to step into my role as an intern in the Capitol."
Ruhi Dhayagude
Education: UC Davis, Political Science and Economics
Office: Asian American Pacific Islander Legislative Caucus
Post-Internship Plan: Workforce Development Associate, Silicon Valley Leadership Group Foundation
"I thoroughly enjoyed my internship with the Asian American Pacific Islander Legislative Caucus (AAPILC) in 2023, where I gained early exposure to the legislative process, cross-sector collaboration, and the importance of uplifting community voices. As one of my first professional experiences, I was empowered to lead key media initiatives and participate in conversations that shape policymaking.
This experience refined my professional skill set, deepened my understanding of systems-level change, and reinforced my commitment to community-centered work. The internship also directly informed my work today and career goals, which are to strengthen regional workforce ecosystems and contribute to a more inclusive and innovative economy across the Bay Area."
Michael Dunn
Education: UC Davis, Political Science
Office: Assemblymember Lori Wilson
Post-Internship Plan: Local Campaigns
"My internship with API Advocates has given me an incredible amount of insight in just three months. I was able to build meaningful connections throughout the Capitol, learn firsthand about political strategy, and explore a wide range of policy issues that were completely new to me. The opportunity to learn from professionals who are passionate about advocacy and public service has strengthened my desire to pursue a career in this field and has shown me how much impact dedicated individuals can make."
Dara Farnoush
Education: UC Davis, Environmental Policy Analysis and Planning, B.S. and Economics, B.A. (Minor in Political Science)
Office: Assemblymember Hart and Assemblymember Cecilia Aguiar-Curry
Post-Internship Plan: Energy Research Fellow, Gen-Z Emerging Technology Action
"I've had the opportunity to do this internship twice now, first working with headquarters to advance Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander interests in the State Legislature, then in a role at the State Assembly spending half my quarter with the office of Assemblymember Hart and the other half with the office of Assembly Majority Leader Aguiar-Curry. These opportunities as well as the other events I've participated in have been key to me realizing that I want to work in state policy after I graduate. Without this internship program I would not have had nearly such a strong resume now through the titles and connections that I've gained as well as the skills I've developed."
Anureet Saini
Education: UC Davis, Political Science
Office: Assemblymember Heather Hadwick
Post-Internship Plan: Internship Extension
"Looking back on my time at the State Capitol, I feel so privileged and grateful for this incredible internship experience. Getting a look at the inner workings of state government through its 'glass walls' has been absolutely invaluable and educational. From tracking legislation to seeing how constituent voices shape policy, this program has demystified the political process for me. Thank you to Assemblymember Hadwick’s office for an unforgettable opportunity to turn my passion for advocacy into real-world action!"
Hana Seidner
Education: UC Davis, Sociology
Office: Assemblymember Avila Farias
Post-Internship Plan: Legislative Aide, Office of Assemblymember Avila Farias
"During my internship with the Office of Assemblymember Anamarie Avila Farias, I conducted policy research, engaged with constituents and stakeholders, and supported a range of legislative priorities in a fast-paced, hands-on environment. That experience strengthened my communication and civic engagement skills and deepened my commitment to advancing AAPI representation in public policy. After the internship, I joined the office full-time as a Legislative Aide, where I continue applying those skills to support community-focused legislative priorities. Looking ahead, I plan to attend law school and build a career advocating for policies that protect and expand the rights of all communities."
Teo Richard
Education: UC Davis, Economics and Statistics
Office: Assemblymember Greg Wallis
Post-Internship Plan: Sustainability economics and government policy in London and Norway.
"I am so grateful to have been a part of this program. It’s both a wonderful professional experience and an opportunity to engage with an amazing community."
Ele Fifita
Education: UC Davis, Human Development
Office: Assemblymember David Tangipa
Post-Internship Plan: Internship Extension
"Being an Intern for API Advocates took me so much farther than I ever expected! I got to meet amazing people and be apart of the legislative process seeing how everything works once I was in my host office. API Advocates not only helps to put you in a office but helps to bridge you to be apart of the community and serve your community while in the legislative building."
Marissa Lynn Forte
Education: SAC State, Political Science
Office: Assemblymember Carl DeMaio
Post-Internship Plan: Executive Assistant, Sacramento County Republican Party
"My internship prepared me to engage professionally in the political world and equipped me with tools to help our fellow community members understand the political system in the State Capitol, which in turn affects their votes for representatives during elections."
Sith Gingras
Education: UC Davis, Economics
Office: Vice Mayor Karina Talamantes
Post-Internship Plan: Internship Extension
"It was wonderful being a part of API Advocates for their spring internship program. They gave me a lot of great skills before heading into the office to make me feel confident in my abilities. They also provided consistent support throughout the duration of the internship so I always knew I had someone to rely on for help. It was awesome being a part of Vice Mayor Karina Talamantes team for the spring internship program. They allowed me to get a lot of hands on experience in a variety of fields. Along with helping me get in contact with individuals who where in fields that I was interested in going into."
Dhrti Molukuta
Education: UC Berkeley, Political Science
Office: Assemblymember Mike Gipson
Post-Internship Plan: Paralegal for Law Office of John R Larson
"I had a great time interning through API Advocates. I learned a lot about how the legislature looked like and how it operated; I also enjoyed learning about all the different kinds of ways advocacy can shine though in the government. Its interesting to be on the other side of the advocacy. Seeing people's passion and commitment to the issues definitely rubbed off on me, I started to feel more closely aligned with some issue areas like immigration. "
Amandeep Kaur
Education: SAC State, International Relations
Office: Asian American Pacific Islander Legislative Caucus
Post-Internship Plan: Internship Extension Government Relations Associate, California Grocers Association
"I've known since a young age that I wanted to go into politics, but as a first-generation Sikh-American, I had no guidance on how to get into that field. Luckily, the CA API Legislative Caucus internship helped me get a foot in the door and taught me how our AANHPI legislators are working on helping people like me through education, health; the list goes on. I deeply believe that this internship helped me tremendously to get to where I am currently professionally and I look forward to continue representing the Sikh-American and the broader AANHPI community in California politics."
Valen Lo
Education: UC Davis, International Relations and Communication
Office: Assemblymember Stephanie Nguyen
Post-Internship Plan: Internship Extension
"Advocating for my community through representation and policy is what drives me, and this internship has been instrumental in building the skills to make that a reality. I’m incredibly grateful for this opportunity, and for everything I’ve gained through this experience."
Cyrus Vong
Education: UCLA, Political Science
Office: Asian Pacific Islander Legislative Caucus
Post-Internship Plan: Campaign Manager / Civic Engagement Coordinator
"Working with API Advocates Executive Director Isa Whalen has been an incredibly grounding experience in what effective, values-driven advocacy looks like in practice. Isa leads with clarity, intention, and a deep commitment to community impact, which has shaped how I think about coalition-building and policy change. Bringing that mindset to Orange and San Bernardino Counties, I am currently a part of GOTV efforts to elect Democrats up and down the ballot in every level of government and expanding youth civic engagement."
Jenna Townend
Education: UC Davis, International Relations
Office: CA Commission on Status of Women and Girls
Post-Internship Plan: English Teacher Abroad
"This internship program readily prepared me to be an exceptional intern within the capital! The thorough preparation was amazing along with the continuance of resources provided during the entire internship period."
Kaylee Tran
Education: UC Davis, Community and Regional Development
Office: Senator Blakespear
Post-Internship Plan: Junior Account Executive at Sage Strategies & Program Manager at CA API Legislative Caucus Institute
"Serving as an intern in Senator Blakespear’s office deepened my commitment to public service and strengthened my belief in equity-centered policy solutions. This experience allowed me to connect my lived experiences and academic training with the real-world impact of public policy, reinforcing my desire to contribute meaningfully to more just and inclusive systems.
Looking ahead, I am eager to continue building my career as a public servant by expanding my knowledge of policy making, and I hope to grow into roles where I can help shape policies that reflect and uplift the diverse communities I serve."
Dylan Morgan
Education: SAC State, Political Science
Office: Assemblymember Sade Elhawary
Post-Internship Plan: Internship Extension
"My internship experience has been educational and fulfilling to say the least. I’ve been able to play a role in the formation, debate, and passing of policies that have tangible effects on the Californian people. My host office and I have the same priority: assisting the most vulnerable populations such as orphans, incarcerated individuals, and victims of gun violence. I look forward to applying the lessons I’ve learned to continue advocating for Californians most in need when I hold elected office one day."
Tony Ordoukhanian
Education: UC Berkeley, Political Science
Office: US Representative Judy Chu
Post-Internship Plan: Internship Extension
"Experiences in public leadership, policy research, and legislative advocacy have shaped my passions for public service and uplifting marginalized communities. Following completion of the UCDC program and my time on Capitol Hill, I am seeking to build on my experiences in federal or state government, legislative analysis, and civic advocacy to continue creating a meaningful impact."
Natalie Posell
Education: UC Davis, Political Science
Office: Office of the Lieutenant Governor
Post-Internship Plan: Internship Extension
"The internship with API Advocates Program and the California Lieutenant Governor's Office gave me opportunities I never imagined. This internship taught me how to write professionally in government spaces, build relationships with mentors, and work collaboratively on time-pressing projects. More importantly, this internship helped me find confidence in the professional world. The support and mentorship I have gained throughout this experience is incredible. I am so grateful to leave this internship knowing I have a goal now, and that is to establish a career in public policy."
Amanda Brzozowski
Education: UC Davis, Sociology
Office: Assemblymember Pilar Schiavo
Post-Internship Plan: Law-Firm Interviews
"My API Advocates internship experience gave me an amazing opportunity to develop my skills and interests in a professional setting. It was an absolute pleasure to be a part of my host office and contribute, even as just an intern, to efforts to advance legislation that will make California better for its communities, especially its API communities."
Reece Camacho
Education: SAC State, History
Office: Assemblymember Ransom
Post-Internship Plan: LSAT
"My time in the API Advocates Internship Program working inside the Office of Assemblymember Ransom was truly a unique experience! You get a first-hand look at how California's state government works to serve its constituents. Greeting stakeholders and constituents, taking notes during meetings, and listening to committee hearings gives you a great sense of how hard at work our elected officials and their staff are at pushing for changes where they ought to be in our state."
Anthony Chan
Education: UC Davis, Political Science
Office: Assemblymember Tri Ta
Post-Internship Plan: Mayor of Brisbane Volunteer
"The capitol was a breathtaking experience, one I highly recommend to anybody, even those not looking into future political careers. The legislative internship is not only another workplace opportunity to spiffy up a resume, it is the embodiment of hope for a better future. "
Ailana Mendiola-Power
Education: Portland State University, Sociology and ASL
Office: Assemblymember Robert Garcia
Post-Internship Plan: Internship Extension
"I am so grateful to have been part of the 2026 API Advocates Spring Internship. This was an incredibly formative experience that introduced me to state legislative work and helped me make invaluable connections I plan to keep throughout my career!"
Sarah Kubasek
Education: UC Davis, Political Science
Office: Assemblymember Caloza
Post-Internship Plan: LSAT
"My internship experience has given me a lot of insight on the collaborative nature of policy making, and has introduced me to a potential career goal of writing legislation in “legalese” on Legislative Counsel. My work in the office has helped me hone my writing skills, phone etiquette, time management, and more, and I look forward to learning each day I step into the office. Thank you for the opportunity, and a huge shoutout to Team Caloza!"
Marlizett Morales
Education: UC Davis, Political Science and Economics
Office: Senator Alvarado Gil
Post-Internship Plan: Internship Extension
"Interning in Senator Marie Alvarado-Gil's office has been an unforgettable experience. From learning about the legislative process to assisting with constituent services, I was able to see firsthand how public service brings about significant change. The mentorship and support I received from my staff helped me grow professionally and strengthened my passion for policy and serving my community. I am immensely grateful for the opportunity and the lessons I will remember throughout my career."
Adrian Gonzalez
Education: UC Davis, Political Science
Office: Assemblymember Josh Hoover
Post-Internship Plan: Fellowship
"This internship was an incredible opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of advocacy and the legislative process in our state! I'd highly recommend it to anyone interested in advocacy, as it puts you right in the center of it all."
Monica Ochoa Bautizta
Education: UC Davis, International Relations
Office: Senator Jerry McNerney
"This internship truly gave me the confidence to know I belong in these spaces. Being a minority, it can be very intimidating, but through the guidance of the API staff, I was able to walk into the legislature with confidence. I am extremely grateful for the opportunity. My host office was the best; they were all extremely welcoming and shared their knowledge. They allowed me to complete tasks and supported me with everything along the way. I had the privilege to represent District 5 with Senator McNerney and staff. "
Ryan Homan
Education: UC Davis, Political Science
Office: Assemblymember Al Muratsuchi
Post-Internship Plan: Internship Extension
"API Advocates have provided me with the opportunity to learn more about the world of public policy and public service. It wasn’t until I started interning for Asm. Muratsuchi’s office that I realized how passionate I am about the legislative process, and how much policy work shapes our everyday lives. It is in public policy that shapes our communities that we love. Through API Advocates and Al Muratsuchi and his team, I will be continuing this newfound spark for education and higher education policy in my future endeavors."
Sarra Osman
Education: UC Davis, Political Science
Office: Assemblymember Kate Sanchez
Post-Internship Plan: LSAT
"This internship challenged me to step outside my comfort zone and grow both personally and professionally. I learned that meaningful public service often happens through everyday interactions with community members, and I gained valuable experience that will help me pursue my future goals in law and public service."
Abeer Alharbi
Education: SAC City College
Office: CA API Legislative Caucus Institute
Post-Internship Plan: LSAT
"If you want to grow, learn, discover incredible opportunities, and meet amazing people who genuinely want to help you succeed, this is the place to start. I mean both the Internship Program and the CAPILCI office. This experience challenged me, expanded my understanding of public service and advocacy, and connected me with supportive mentors and peers who encouraged me along the way. I am truly grateful for everything I learned and the relationships I built through this program."
Audrey Tang
Education: UC Davis, Sociology and Political Science
Office: California Asian Pacific Islander Legislative Caucus Institute
Post-Internship Plan: Nonprofit and Advocacy Work
"This internship program has provided me with the tools to become more confident professionally through this experience in public service. I had the opportunity to experience and support the important mission of non-profit organizations that continues to uplift AANHPI representation in government. This experience has helped me create meaningful connections, become more confident, and improve my professional skills."
Sana Naqvi
Education: UC Davis, Human Development
Office: Assemblymember Lori D. Wilson
Post-Internship Plan: Discovery Clerk, Brayton Purcell LLP
"During my final quarter at UC Davis, I had the opportunity to intern with Assemblymember Lori D. Wilson of California’s 11th District at the State Capitol, where I gained firsthand experience with constituent outreach and the legislative process. This experience strengthened my passion for advocacy and showed me the importance of advancing community interests through public service. This fall, I will begin law school at the University of San Francisco, where I hope to pursue public interest and social justice law. My goal is to use my legal education to advocate for underserved communities and create meaningful change through the law."
Sairaksha Thirunavukkarasu
Education: USC, Communication
Office: Headquarters
Post-Internship Plan: Internship Extension
"I had the opportunity to wear many different hats in nonprofit management, especially community outreach. I helped organize our 2025 advocacy day at the California State Capitol and AAPI Heritage Month events, during which I learned the importance of event coordination.
My most notable memories include creating social media content with my fellow interns, which inspired me to explore a career path in Communication. Working to strengthen the API community across California has been the highlight of my college journey so far and helped me find the area of study I am most passionate about!"