By Paolo Estrella, 2025 CLA Intern
My Sacramento trip was incredible. Honestly, I like to think it began well before my flight even left Burbank. In the five weeks leading up to it, I was filled with excitement and anticipation. As someone with a lot of state pride, I was really looking forward to stepping onto the Assembly floor and witnessing the legislative process up close. I also couldn’t wait to meet Capitol staff, understand the work culture, and experience the atmosphere of the city itself. I spent time researching Sacramento’s history, political structure, and the vital role the state legislature plays in the lives of 40 million Californians.
Even with all that anticipation, the trip still managed to exceed my expectations.
Despite the early start, leaving home at 4:15 a.m. for a 7:00 a.m. flight, the energy of being with my cohort made everything better. After landing, we went straight to the Capitol, where I stood on the Assembly floor, met the Sacramento interns from my office, and soaked in the weight of California’s legislative history. We arrived just in time to catch the end of the session as it transitioned into summer, which made the experience feel even more special.
Throughout the panels, meetings, and mixers, the bonds between cohort members grew stronger. Though we were all running on minimal sleep, I stayed focused on getting the most out of each moment. I made sure to ask meaningful questions, engage with officials, and continue building connections with the people I’d grown close to over the last five weeks.
There were so many moments that stood out: a fascinating conversation with a member of Assemblymember Mike Fong’s team, a panel on directing legislation, and learning how the voting structure in the Assembly works. But what stuck with me the most was the culture of Sacramento itself.
I know that many of my peers don’t see Sacramento as a place to live or work long-term. But I felt something different. During my first year in Washington, D.C., I noticed how formal and rigid the culture was. In contrast, Sacramento felt welcoming, grounded, and more aligned with my values and personality. I could see myself thriving there.
This trip gave me clarity about what kind of political environment I want to be part of. I left feeling inspired, connected, and eager to return.