Mariela Esquivel-Rodriguez

Congressional Intern, Presented By: Walmart
Hometown: Caldwell, Idaho
School: Northwest Nazarene University
Major: Social Work
Placement: The Office of Rep. Jim Costa

Mariela Esquivel-Rodriguez is the daughter of Raul Esquivel and Irma Rodriguez, both of whom immigrated to the United States in their late teens. Mariela was born and raised in Caldwell, Idaho, where she often translated work messages for her parents and accompanied them to doctor’s appointments to interpret. She graduated from Caldwell High School and matriculated at Northwest Nazarene University (NNU) in Nampa, Idaho entering her fourth year this fall.

Mariela chose to major in social work and minor in professional writing to amplify her love for helping others and advocating for vulnerable voices in her community. During her time at NNU, Mariela was a contributing author to the book Today’s Inspired Young Latina Volume IV, served as the Education Window Coordinator for the Mexican Consulate in Boise, and was a part-time reporter for BoiseDev, an internship she received through the Voces Internship of Idaho program that encourages more Latinos in journalism. She was later hired by the newsroom she interned with. Mariela is the first recipient of the newly founded Ñ Fund for Latinas in Journalism. She believes in leading with character, embracing her roots, and giving back to her community.

As a CHCI Intern, Mariela hopes to learn more about how the legislative process impacts communities on a larger scale and provide insight from her perspective as a future social worker and journalist. She hopes that her experience will inspire the Latino youth from Idaho to strive for positions of leadership and continue sharing their stories.