Diego Andrades

CHCI Public Policy Fellow Presented by the Coca Cola Foundation 
Hometown: Elk Grove, California
School: University of Southern California
Degree:  B.A. in Political Science; B.A. in Philosophy, Politics, and Law
Placement One: The Office of Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal
Placement Two: U.S. Senate Committee on Rules and Administration

Diego (he/him) is originally from Sacramento, California. Being raised by a single mother, Diego learned the importance of advocating for himself from a young age. This lesson became paramount during his college application process when he was rejected from the University of Southern California (USC). Rather than being defined by this rejection, Diego fought for himself, becoming one of the few applicants to successfully overturn an admissions decision. In May 2023, Diego graduated magna cum laude from USC with a double major in Political Science (honors) and Philosophy, Politics, and Law.

During his time at USC, Diego was a leader on campus. As the Undergraduate Student Government’s Chief of Staff, Diego led strategic communications responses to a myriad of issues within the university. Diego also served as the President of Delta Omicron Zeta Leadership Society and Student Body Senator. 

Outside of school, Diego has had numerous professional experiences. He interned at California Common Cause, the ACLU National Political Advocacy Department, Bryson Gillette, and Crooked Media. During these experiences, Diego developed a strong interest in electoral policies, democracy reforms, and good governance. Diego conducted intensive research on these issues as a Research Assistant at the USC Institute of State and Global Politics, a Provost Research Fellow at USC, a Research Associate at Crooked Media, and a Presidential Fellow at the Center for the Study of the Presidency and Congress. Upon graduation, Diego was awarded the Order of Laurel and Palm for having made a lasting impact on the university and the world at large. This is the highest honor presented by USC, only awarded to less than one percent of graduating students. 

While Diego has gained a varied array of skill sets, he recognizes that there is still much to learn. As a CHCI Fellow, Diego hopes to grow his understanding of the political process and learn more about the wide variety of federal policies aimed at enhancing our democracy.