Pedro Yupa 

Hometown: Corona, New York 

School: St. Lawrence University 

Major: Government 

Placement: The Office of Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez 

Pedro was raised in a small neighborhood of Corona, Queens in New York City by Ecuadorian parents who immigrated to the United States. This unique background has instilled a deep pride in his heritage and a strong sense of community. As the first in his family to navigate the complexities of higher education, Pedro understands the significance of pursuing his studies with diligence and the responsibility of giving back. At St. Lawrence University, where he is majoring in Political Science and Global Studies, he’s engaged deeply with the academic community and sought out experiences that broaden his perspective on justice and governance. 

His commitment to understanding and improving legal systems further solidified during an internship at the Royal Court of Justice in London. This experience not only enriched his academic journey, but also sharpened his focus on pursuing a career in public service. Pedro’s aspiration is to bring about transformative changes within Congress, particularly to challenge and reform the prevailing capitalist system in favor of a more equitable society. 

As a CHCI Intern, he is eager to deepen his understanding of the legislative process and broaden his perspective by interacting with interns from various parts of the United States. Pedro is committed to leveraging this experience to build professional connections, learn from the rich array of backgrounds represented, and contribute meaningfully to discussions on policy and reform. Through this internship, he aims to not only advance his career ambitions, but also inspire others to pursue their goals and make a positive impact.