Fast Facts

Department: Trips
Hometown: Harbor City, CA
College/University and Major: UC Irvine; Economics, International Studies 
Languages spoken: English, Spanish, Portuguese
Go-to source for news and information: The New York Times and sometimes Twitter
The last thing I Googled for work: “How is Silicon Valley influencing the global economy?”
Fun Fact: I lived in Brazil for a year!

What drew you to the Pacific Council?

I was drawn to the Pacific Council because of its focus on international policy, especially since there are few foreign policy-oriented organizations in the Los Angeles region.

I applied to gain real world experience in order to prepare for a Master’s degree in international security policy. I wanted to take a closer look at how non-profits operate, and gain insight on event planning for both small and large-scale programs. The Pacific Council has organized a multitude of influential events with various high-profile individuals.

When did you first realize you had a passion for international affairs?

I first realized my passion for international affairs after taking a global economics course near the end of my first year at college. This sparked my interest in world news and foreign affairs, so I added International Studies as a second major. I began conducting research on various foreign policy topics and wrote my honor’s thesis on U.S. counter-narcotics policy in Central America. I continued to pursue my interest in international affairs by attending conferences like the Naval Academy Foreign Affairs Conference, and by interning in D.C. for a semester.

Each time I travel to a new country I am reminded of how much I enjoy learning about different cultures. In particular, I am intrigued by how the United States engages with countries around the world.

What is the most interesting thing you’ve done since starting at the Pacific Council?

Since starting the fellowship, I have had the unique opportunity to assist in event planning for delegation trips. My favorite experience was attending the Port of Los Angeles delegation trip. I was able to get a behind-the-scenes look at the Port, and learn about policies regarding trade and cargo shipments. To top it off, I got the chance to know some of the Council members!

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The Pacific Council’s Junior Fellowship program offers students and recent graduates the unique opportunity to work alongside our staff of non-profit and foreign policy professionals. Apply now to become a Summer 2016 Junior Fellow!