CHCI-Walmart Congressional Intern
Hometown: Hokah, Minnesota
School: University of Minnesota – Twin Cities
Major: American Studies
Placement: The Office of Representative Norma Torres
Nayelli grew up in rural Minnesota, and from an early age she was determined to obtain a higher education and make a difference in her rural community. She committed to academic excellence while helping operate a food bank and continues to find time for volunteering as an undergraduate. A first-generation college student, she strives to be a role model to the children she tutors through the Minneapolis public libraries.
Nayelli is currently a senior at the University of Minnesota majoring in American Studies and is a Hispanic Scholarship Fund Scholar. She has participated in research projects in several areas including special education complaints, immigration and life outcomes, and monetary sanctions in the Minnesota judicial system. Upon graduation, she plans to pursue a graduate degree. Currently, she is a participant in the Ronald E. McNair Post-Baccalaureate Achievement Program.
As a CHCI intern, Nayelli hopes to expand her knowledge of the legislative process. She hopes to better understand how Latino communities have successfully organized and sustained a political presence at local and national levels.