Violeta Salazar

Congressional Intern, Presented by Synchrony Financial
Hometown: Lawndale, California
School: Wellesley College
Major: American Studies; Economics
Placement: Office of Rep. Katherine Clark

Violeta Salazar was raised in Los Angeles, California, and grew up between Lawndale and Santa Monica as the youngest of four sisters. As the daughter of parents of different races in an incredibly diverse city, she developed a deep appreciation for varied perspectives, which continues to shape her leadership and advocacy work.

Violeta is a student at Wellesley College, double-majoring in American Studies, with a concentration in Latino Studies, and Economics. She holds executive board positions on both Fusion, the college’s multicultural organization, and the Schneider Board of Governors, the college’s event planning board. She also works part-time at the college’s Library and Technology Services Help Desk.

Before beginning her undergraduate studies, Violeta took a gap year during which she worked full-time in a restaurant in Los Angeles and traveled throughout Asia and Europe for 9 months, including three months of intensive language study in South Korea. Through this experience, she broadened her worldview, engaged with cultures different from her own, and gained a global perspective on complex issues. Upon completion of her undergraduate studies, she plans to pursue a master’s degree in public policy and a career in economic policy and research.

As a CHCI Intern, Violeta aims to strengthen her analytical writing and advocacy skills while gaining a deeper understanding of the legislative process. She is also eager to explore creative solutions to large-scale issues such as affordable housing, economic development, and education equity.