Marco A. Cruz Linares 

Congressional Intern, Presented by Walmart  

Hometown: Baytown, Texas  

School: University of Houston – Downtown  

Major: Political Science  

Placement: Office of Rep. Sylvia Garcia 

Marco was born in Estado de Mexico, Mexico. As a child, Marco’s mother emigrated to the United States with him and his two sisters to reunite with his stepfather in Baytown, Texas. Like many Dreamers, he discovered the challenges and lack of opportunities faced by those brought to the United States by their parents without legal status. Fortunately, Marco was granted DACA, which allowed him to get a well-paying job, attend college, and participate in leadership programs. 

Marco is a first-generation college student at the University of Houston-Downtown (UDH), majoring in Political Science and minoring in Philosophy. As a Parliamentarian in his pre-law association at UHD and as part of the leadership team, he is responsible for organizing law-related events for the members of his association to prepare them for the law school application process. This includes booking law school tours, coordinating Zoom meetings with judges, lawyers, and law students, and holding LSAT practice sessions. 

Marco hopes to build relationships with Hispanic leaders and learn more about the legislative process as an intern at CHCI. He plans to attend law school and aims to use this experience to make a difference in his community and inspire others, so the Hispanic community will have a greater voice in this country.