At 19 years old, Cindy Chavez is already forging a path toward a career in law and policy.
A political science student at Cal State Fullerton, Chavez was selected as CSUF’s 2024 Panetta Congressional intern and had the opportunity to gain hands-on professional experience in U.S. Rep. Lou Correa’s Washington, D.C., office.
“I’ve always dreamed of visiting Washington, D.C., to witness how Congress works to tackle the challenges facing our country. But coming from a low-income household, I never thought it would be possible,” said Chavez.
The Panetta Congressional Internship Program is hosted by the Panetta Institute for Public Policy, and selects one student annually from each California State University campus to participate in a fully funded internship in Washington, D.C. Through this opportunity, students gain firsthand experience in legislative work and constituent services.
Chavez said her role has allowed her to immerse herself in Capitol Hill’s daily operations. From attending congressional briefings and responding to constituent mail to drafting cosponsor recommendations for bills on education, Social Security and veterans’ affairs, she is actively engaged in the legislative process.
“It’s exciting to be involved in shaping policies that impact people’s lives,” she said. “I’ve learned how many moving parts work together to make government function.
“With the support of the Panetta Institute, I have had a once-in-a-lifetime experience on Capitol Hill. Every day, I am beyond thankful that I have the opportunity to be part of the history being made on the House and Senate floors,” said Chavez.
The experience connected Chavez with Correa, a CSUF alum and longtime advocate for student opportunities.
“I’m a proud CSUF alum, and I’m so grateful to see that my alma mater is preparing the next generation of CSUF leaders. As an intern, Cindy has gained valuable, hands-on work experience while contributing to our legislative process and supporting our constituents back home,” said Correa ’80 (B.A. economics).
“Cindy has applied her the knowledge and skills she’s developed in the CSUF classroom to help us deliver for the 46th District and Orange County. Cindy has a bright future, and I hope she considers public policy for her career.”
Building a Future in Law
Chavez’s academic journey at CSUF, especially the supportive environment within the Educational Opportunity Program, has been a key factor in helping her pursue her dreams.
CSUF’s Educational Opportunity Program provides academic and financial support to students who face economic and educational barriers. EOP offers such services as admission assistance, counseling, tutoring and financial aid guidance to help students earn their degrees.
“As a first-generation college student, CSUF gave me the resources to navigate academia,” she said. “The support I received from my EOP adviser helped me set up a meeting with my professor during office hours, and the library resources he recommended helped me earn an A in the class.”
This academic support combined with her political science coursework has provided Chavez with the confidence and knowledge to pursue a career in law. Her interest in criminal justice reform stems from a personal experience that shaped her perspective early on.
“When I was 6, my father suffered a serious workplace injury, and I watched my family struggle because he didn’t receive the compensation he deserved,” said Chavez. “I knew from a young age that I wanted to help families like mine seek justice.”
Chavez plans to further her involvement on campus in the spring, joining student government or outreach initiatives that align with her passion for helping others achieve their educational goals.
“CSUF has been more than an education — it’s been a foundation for my future in law and policy,” said Chavez. “Washington has opened doors for me, and I’m excited to see where my career takes me.”