What was your involvement with Mikva?

I was an intern with Mikva DC, the summer of 2020 and worked in former DC Attorney General Karl Racine’s office where I contributed to a 50 State Survey that highlighted hate and discrimination policies throughout different jurisdictions. In addition, I served as a mentor to the High-school Advisory Council (HSAC) and conducted participatory research, gathering youth perspectives, ideas, and concerns on key policy issues.

How was your experience working with with an elected official? And how did that experience impact you?

It impacted me because it led me on a path of public service. Mikva Challenge DC allowed me to work with public officials who are committed to public service. Like Mikva Challenge DC says, democracy is a verb. It’s one thing to want to get into politics and have aspirations but it’s another thing to follow through with it.

What is your current role?

I recently graduated from the Virginia State University in Spring 2022, with my degree and Political Science and minor in Philosophy. Currently I’m in the second week of my internship in the White House Office of Communications in the White House internship program. My currently role is in fact checking and vetting information for briefs and talking points. I’ll be applying to law school this fall. I’d love to attend Howard University.

Has Mikva Challenge DC impacted your current role in your community?

Mikva DC not only allowed me to pursue other opportunities, such as pursuing an internship with a Congressional Black Caucus, in addition interning at Senator Bernie Sander’s office, but it allowed me to give back and talk to younger youth about politics and my experiences interning on the Hill. My Mikva experience led me on a journey of public service.

What advice would you give current Mikva students?

I wouldn’t be in the White House if it weren’t for Mikva Challenge DC, so you have to take advantage of every opportunity that Mikva Challenge gives you. 

Do a lot of research and continue to be active in politics. , Continue to be persistent.  As far as skills I would say, writing is the most important. And every internship I’ve been a part of writing was the number one skill my employer was looking for and that I got a chance to hone and improve on.

What is your future career goal?

My future goal is to become Mayor of DC. After law school I want to become a litigator for my own, African-American community. So many people have lost their lives, especially young Black girls and boys, to violence. Sometimes they have nothing to do with what’s going on, yet they become victims.I want to be an advocate for causes such as addressing gun violence in DC.