David Alexander Villarreal

Congressional Intern, Presented by UPS Foundation
Hometown: Jamaica, New York
School: University of the District of Columbia
Major: Administration of Justice
Placement: Office of Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez

David Villarreal is a first-generation college student born in Jamaica, Queens, New York, to Ecuadorian immigrant parents. David was shaped by the strong resilience of his family rebuilding itself across borders; that work ethic became the foundation of who he is. In 2013, his family relocated to Ecuador, where he later completed his education. In 2022, his life changed abruptly when his father lost his life in a senseless act of violence while cycling.

Despite the loss, David completed his final year of high school, while helping his family prepare to start over in New York. They settled in the Bronx, where he enrolled in Community College as a full-time student while working part-time as a dental assistant in Queens. He earned Dean’s List honors across three consecutive semesters before transferring to the University of the District of Columbia, where he is pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Administration of Justice. Beyond academics, David is an active civic volunteer and a self-taught guitarist who believes music, like community, has the power to bring people together.

Upon completing his degree, David hopes to build a career focused on justice, advocacy, and creating opportunities for underserved communities. Experiencing the loss of his father strengthened his commitment to public service. As a CHCI Intern, he hopes to grow within a community grounded in service and looks forward to building meaningful connections, sharpening his voice, and witnessing firsthand how everyday language becomes the policy that shapes lives on the floor of Congress.