Nicole Tarragona

Congressional Intern, Presented by Charter Communications
Hometown: Austin, Texas
School: The University of Texas at Austin
Major: Government; International Relations & Global Studies
Placement: Office of Rep. Greg Casar

Nicole Tarragona was born in Houston, Texas, and is the daughter of two Uruguayan immigrants who came to the United States at the age of 17 in pursuit of greater opportunity. Raised in a household shaped by perseverance and the enduring belief “que sí se puede,” she developed an awareness of how language barriers and limited access to opportunity affect immigrant families navigating institutions not designed with them in mind. Nicole witnessed how these barriers restrict access to legal protections and civic participation; this experience instilled her commitment to address inequities through law and public policy.

As a first-generation college student, Nicole is pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Government and International Relations & Global Studies at the University of Texas at Austin, along with a Certificate in Ethics and Leadership in Law, Politics and Government. Her work centers on immigrant rights, voting rights, and language access, and she has gained valuable experience with LatinoJustice PRLDEF and the Office of Texas State Senator Sarah Eckhardt. These experiences have strengthened her understanding of how policy can either reinforce exclusion or expand access. After graduating, Nicole hopes to attend law school and become a civil rights attorney focused on protecting immigrant communities, ensuring that language is not a barrier to civic participation.

As a CHCI Intern, Nicole hopes to deepen her understanding of the legislative process and gain experience in advocacy that advances policies expanding access and representation, while encouraging other Latino leaders to step forward, claim their voice, and help shape the systems that impact their communities.