Vanessa Vasquez

Hometown: Long Beach, California

School: Gahr High School

When Vanessa Vasquez first learned about CHCI NextGen, she was amazed by the amount of opportunities it offered Latinos at no cost. Despite her excitement, Vanessa felt hesitant and nervous; extroversion and eloquent speaking weren’t her natural strengths, and she was also preparing for a week-long trip away from her family. However, Vanessa’s eagerness to connect with like-minded students outweighed her apprehensions. Vanessa’s week in DC far surpassed her expectations. She gained invaluable insights into politics and had the chance to hear diverse perspectives from Latino students across the country. The experience not only expanded her knowledge but also led to the formation of lifelong friendships. Visiting iconic landmarks such as the Jefferson Memorial, Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, the Capitol, and the White House added to the significance of the trip. Vanessa is incredibly proud to be a CHCI Junior Alum and grateful for the transformative experience provided by the program. She will implement the skills and lessons learned in her work and forever remember this once-in-a-lifetime experience.