Alejandro T. Salinas

Congressional Intern, Presented by Meta
Hometown: Columbus, Texas
School: Rice University
Major: Psychology; Sociology
Placement: Office of Rep. Joaquin Castro

Alejandro T. Salinas was born and raised in Columbus, Texas, and was raised alongside his two siblings by his mother, whose work ethic shaped his worldview from an early age. Watching his mother navigate a new language, new country, and eventually build a career as a paralegal, Alejandro developed a deep respect for the law and an unwavering commitment to advocating for those who too often go unheard.

Alejandro is a recent graduate from Rice University, where he double-majored in Psychology and Sociology with a minor in Politics, Law, and Social Thought. On campus, he channeled his passion for community service into action, helping lead an initiative that assembles and delivers approximately 600 meal packs per month to food-insecure Houstonians. Beyond campus, Alejandro has worked in seven legal specialties throughout his undergraduate studies. His work has ranged from supporting asylum seekers in an immigration attorney’s office, to working with United Nations agencies to assist displaced populations in Amman, Jordan. Together, his experiences have reinforced his belief that advocacy is most powerful when it meets people where they are.

Alejandro plans to attend law school to pursue international civil rights litigation, with the goal of dismantling the structural barriers that marginalize vulnerable communities. As a CHCI Intern, he hopes to gain a deeper understanding of the legislative branch and not only comprehend the issues our government is addressing, but also grasp the meaningful role he can play within it to advance the needs of underserved communities.