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.
On February 6, 2016, the CAUSE Veterans Initiative fellows participated in the second Civic Leadership Session at the Special Service for Groups Headquarters in Los Angeles, CA. This session’s theme was “Navigating the Workplace,” and was specifically designed to help fellows leverage skills and knowledge from their military service background for their own professional and leadership development.
On January 16, 2016, the CAUSE Veterans Initiative Fellows had an exclusive opportunity to meet with US Congressmember Tammy Duckworth (IL-08) for dinner in El Segundo, CA. Our fellows were astounded to meet a veteran, who rose to the ranks of Congress and did not let her combat injuries stop her from being able to do so.
