By Jada Sirivisut, 2026 CLA Intern
Some experiences leave an impact long after they end, and CAUSE will eternally be one of them. Looking back, what began as an exciting summer internship opportunity quickly grew into nine weeks that completely transformed how I see myself, my community, and my future. From unifying group work and guest speakers to my host office placement and the eleven people who became my closest friends, CAUSE gave me more than I ever expected. I am grateful for the CAUSE staff and team, who encouraged me to challenge myself, make difficult inquiries, and grow without being afraid to make mistakes. Their patience, guidance, and genuine investment in each of us made this experience feel personal, and I will always honor the ways they pushed me to recognize my own potential.
I entered CAUSE with the hope of growing as an API leader and advocate as much as possible, but quickly realized that growth would mean more than simply gaining professional experience. I now realize just how much there is to learn about myself, my voice, and the kind of leadership I hope to emulate. I learned to find my voice in spaces where I felt underrepresented, engaged in discussions on identity and representation, and explored campaign complexities. More importantly, I learned that meaningful change does not happen alone. It takes people who are willing to listen, stand beside one another, and work toward something greater than themselves. The lessons CAUSE taught me about advocacy, leadership, and community will continue to shape my approach to every space I enter moving forward.
My placement in the Attorney General’s Office of External Affairs at the California Department of Justice put these lessons into practice. I saw firsthand how community engagement and state policy intersect, realizing that true leadership is rooted in practicing empathy, building authentic trust, and centering the needs of the community. This invaluable experience will stay with me as I continue navigating the different eras of my life, whether that is in public service, law, politics, government, or beyond. I know that the person I become will be shaped by the people who have invested in me and the opportunities I have gained from them, and CAUSE has given me an incredible foundation to carry that ideal forward.
Something I did not expect was just how meaningful my cohort would become. Between small moments like inside jokes and encouraging through difficult moments to big moments like recognition by the Board of Supervisors and executing Soiree, the twelve of us who began as complete strangers became some of the most inspiring friends I have had the honor of working with. Each unique story and perspective assures me of how incredibly lucky I am that our paths happened to cross. I came into CAUSE expecting to build professional connections, but left with friendships that I genuinely hope will last far beyond this program.
As I begin the next chapter ahead, I move forward with a fuller sense of who I am and hope to become. In moments of uncertainty, I hope to remember what CAUSE taught me: to lead with empathy, find my voice, and never underestimate the power of community. To the CAUSE staff, my host office supervisor, and my eleven incredible cohort members, thank you for making these nine weeks so meaningful. Beyond the program, I will carry all the people, lessons, and memories into every future era of my life.
