JOSE GONZALEZ RAMIREZ

Hometown: Sacramento, California
School: University of California, Berkeley
Major: Sociology
Placement: The Office of Rep. Doris Matsui

Jose was born in Mexico and immigrated to the United States at seven. Growing up, he observed the sacrifices and work his parents have made and continue to make for his siblings and him to pursue a better life. His motivation stems from his family’s unconditional support.

Jose attended Sacramento City College, where he was selected to participate in a campus-sponsored trip to Washington, DC, to advocate on behalf of the college for immigrant student rights. Traveling and advocating on issues impacting his community and himself was a pivotal moment in his life. It was the first time he could share how being an undocumented individual created certain obstacles in his life, especially when pursuing an education. This experience motivated him to focus on his studies and pursue opportunities in public service. He became a leading voice for immigrant rights and civic engagement in the college. He later transferred to the University of California, Berkeley, where he is a rising senior studying Sociology. He is a member of multiple groups on campus that promote a sense of community and aim to increase admission and retention rates among Latinx students. Jose hopes to pursue a master’s degree
in public policy to continue his education.

As a CHCI Intern, Jose hopes to continue to develop his interest in public service and find ways to support his community through public policy. He is also excited to return to Washington, DC, the initial location that inspired him to pursue an education.