Michael Burns

Congressional Intern, Presented by Coca-Cola Foundation

Hometown: Hanover, New Hampshire

School: Dartmouth College

Majors: Computer Science; Cognitive Science

Placement: Office of Sen. Margaret Wood Hassan

Michael grew up in East Chicago and attended school in Highland, Indiana. He is the older of twin siblings and has deep Mexican and Puerto Rican roots from his family, embracing the opportunities that have come his way. As a first-generation student at Dartmouth College, Michael is currently pursuing a double major in Computer Science and Cognitive Science with a minor in Latin American & Caribbean Studies.

Michael’s academic excellence is evident through his numerous accolades, including being named a Bill & Melinda Gates Scholar, Hispanic Scholarship Fund Scholar, QuestBridge Scholar & Match Recipient, and National Hispanic Recognition Scholar. His professional experience includes a role as a Litigation Legal Assistant at Davis Polk & Wardwell LLP in New York, where he honed his research and organizational skills in a high-stakes legal environment. On campus, Michael demonstrates his commitment to community well-being through his involvement with Dartmouth’s Wellness Center’s Sexual Violence Prevention Advisory Board and as a Peer Tutor at the Academic Skills Center. His leadership extends to chairing both the People of Color Outdoors (POCO) club and the Diversity, Inclusion, Justice, & Equity (DIJE) initiative, where he has worked tirelessly to promote inclusivity and diversity in outdoor activities.

Michael hopes to gain valuable insights into the legislative process and federal policymaking as a CHCI Intern. He aims to use this experience to initiate positive changes benefiting marginalized communities, leveraging his education and leadership skills to advocate for underrepresented groups and promote equity, inclusivity, and justice in all aspects of his future career.