Alexander Sarmiento

Congressional Intern, Presented by Procter & Gamble
Hometown: Cooper City, Florida
School: Florida International University
Major: International Relations
Placement: Office of Rep. Greg Casar

Born and raised in Broward County, Florida, Alex Sarmiento is a first-generation Honduran American as well as a first-generation college student. Alex is studying International Relations with a Labor Studies certificate in Conflict Resolution and Mediation at Florida International University (FIU). Prior to his time at FIU, Alex attended Florida State University (FSU).

Stemming from his interest in justice and improving quality of life, Alex has taken a significant amount of coursework in political economy, social justice, human rights, philosophy, ethics, migration, refugees, and conflict negotiation to learn more about issues affecting underserved communities both domestic and abroad.

Outside of the classroom, Alex has put what he has learned into action by engaging in research with immediate practical applications. As an undergraduate, Alex has led a research project aimed to help bring water security in a rural municipality in Honduras. As a result of the project, the local school was able to secure free, consistent, and safe bottled drinking water for the students of a town of more than 4,000 people. This project was funded by the FSU Center for the Advancement of Human Rights alongside the university’s IDEA Grant and was featured at the annual President’s Showcase for Undergraduate Research Excellence.

As a CHCI Intern, Alex looks forward to learning more about advocacy and leadership in action to continue to find ways to make large, real-world impacts for underserved communities. Alex plans to enter law school at the conclusion of the Congressional Internship Program.