Vivian Morales 

Congressional Intern, Presented by Toyota 

Hometown: Lake Villa, Illinois 

School: Michigan State University 

Major: Urban and Regional Planning 

Placement: U.S. Joint Economic Committee 

Vivian was born and raised in the Chicagoland area and is the daughter of Mexican immigrants. As a first-generation college student, she recognizes the unique opportunities education can offer for herself and her community. She is a leader on campus and mentors other Latinx college students through her organization, Latino Leaders in Policy. As a research assistant at her university, she advocates for farm workers’ housing conditions through her ethnographic research study in western Michigan. She has also worked as a Legislative Intern for Rep. Brenda Carter, serving Michigan’s 53rd District.  

Vivian is a recent graduate of Michigan State University, majoring in Urban & Regional Planning with an emphasis on affordable housing research and public policy, as well as a minor in Cities: Environment, Design, & Society. Upon completing her undergraduate degree, Vivian is pursuing a master’s degree in Urban & Regional Planning from her alma mater. Having held internships in both the legal and legislative fields, her ultimate career goal is to work for the Department of Housing and Urban Development or congressional offices dedicated to housing reform.  

Vivian intends to learn about the development and adoption of policy during her CHCI internship. She hopes to strengthen her skill set and knowledge of the legislative process and see how public policy can improve the lives of communities. She will use this opportunity to become a more effective leader, a more valuable resource, and an inspiration to other first-generation students.