When I received my bachelor's degree from UCLA in June, the only thing I knew was that I would be joining CAUSE for the next nine weeks. I didn’t know what to expect, however what I gained was a new sense of confidence, a community of amazing individuals, and a greater understanding of our AANHPI community and my place within it.
I often reflect on the “butterfly effect" moments that have occurred in my life; the seemingly small choices or coincidences that have led to profound changes. This internship is a prime example.
As each of the nine weeks of our internship passed, I felt myself developing skills and knowledge through my placement office at LA County First District Supervisor Hilda Solis’ Office and through CAUSE’s cohort sessions.
I often face difficulties coming up with answers for this icebreaker because my facial expressions always reveal my true feelings. So when I released the waterworks in front of the CAUSE board members during graduation, it was clear that I was not ready to say goodbye and close this chapter in my life.
As my time at CAUSE comes to a close, I reflect on the lessons I've learned about family, trust, and the collective power of API communities. CAUSE has not only deepened my understanding of civic engagement but also has reinforced the importance of prioritizing being rooted in community and centering our hearts in the work we do.
My first commute to the CAUSE office in Little Tokyo was filled with nervousness. During the 20-minute ride, I was straightening my jacket and tucking in my blouse continuously, feeling so uneasy. It did not help that I was not from the area; I was nervous to meet new people in a city that I was a stranger to, and more importantly about making the most of this unique opportunity that initially felt out of reach.
In May 2024, I graduated from San Diego State University with a bachelor’s degree in Public Administration, feeling unsure about how to navigate post-grad life. My first day at CLA was nerve-wracking; I was intimidated by those around me, not realizing they would soon become some of my closest friends. Alongside this, imposter syndrome began to creep in, and I thought to myself, "These next nine weeks are going to feel like an eternity." I was completely wrong, this summer flew by and I enjoyed every minute of it.
All politics is local and I’ve been fortunate enough to have the resources and privilege to approach Arcadia through the lenses of a son, a child, a student, an activist, an advocate, a filmmaker, a preservationist, a political scientist, a historian, a geographer, an Asian Americanist, and an intern.
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