Boarding my first ever flight for an internship in DC, I felt a mix of emotions. As soon as I landed I did a quick outfit change and headed over to Capitol Hill, knowing that I was heading into a busy day.
Once I arrived at Capitol Hill, I was able to get my first professional headshot taken which I am excited to receive. Afterward, I attended my first congressional meeting. This is where I met one of my cohort members Sayra for the first time. We connected immediately, which helped ease my nerves. I was especially nervous and scared heading into the meeting as I knew I would have the opportunity to speak to the representative Jimmy Panetta. However, hearing Sayra introduce herself and talk about the National AgFamilies Head Start Association (NAFHSA), I felt more confident when it was my turn to speak. I shared that I am a rising sophomore at the University of Nevada, Reno and then explained how helpful E Center Migrant and Seasonal Head Start was for my farmworking parents.
Following the meeting I met the rest of my cohort in front of the Capitol to end the day by capturing a picture of the five of us together. While it was a long day, I looked forward to returning to the Hill just the next day for another event: Combatting Child Labor 2026: Status Report conference.
There the speakers Dr.Ray Serrano and Sonia Vasquez Luna shared their story as farmworkers. Their stories touched my heart as I see how it relates to my dads story and reminds me of when I would work during the summers. Attending this internship in DC is something I never thought I’d do, but I am excited and honored to be able to represent my community.
Blog Author: Lizet Rentería-Romero – Class of 2026
Published on June 26, 2026