Major: Political Science

• Internship: CASA de Maryland
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fares-barakat-a53886240/

 Tell us about your internship – what kind of work did you do? What did you find rewarding?

I interned for CASA De Maryland which is a non-profit organization that advocates for immigrants' rights and provides services to low-income communities. With CASA, I formulated legislative fact sheets, one-pagers, infographics, presentations, action alerts, and letters. I attended internal policy team meetings, strategy sessions, local and statewide legislative hearings, grassroots actions, coalition meetings, and other events. I formed policy briefs and memos for legislative staff, affiliates, and coalition partners. Moreover, I analyzed and tracked local and statewide legislation to inform the organization’s leaders. I also conducted research on inequality topics, such as education, healthcare, and employment. 

Have your career or life goals changed as a result of your internship? If so, how? 

My career goals did not change but now I'm thinking of more opportunities after I saw the many political institutions and organizations in Washington. After my experience in Washington DC, I became interested in working for the Department of Justice one day. It is a large governmental entity and has thousands of jobs. It is also a great environment for someone who wants to work in the legal field. The DC experience opened my mind to many opportunities and connections that will help me find a rewarding career.

Share an exciting memory from your internship – something unexpected, an accomplishment, someone you met. 

One great memory was attending my first protest. The non-profit organization that I interned for, CASA, organized a large protest to extend DACA and TPS for immigrants in front of Congress. People were chanting in both English and Spanish, "We are the immigrants, fighting for justice." At the event, Immigrants were making speeches about their struggles to apply for citizenship. They shared stories about living in fear from getting deported, even though they legally work and pay taxes in the US. I also got a chance to see Congresswoman Ilhan Omar who delivered a mighty speech.

Share a story about something special you did in Washington – an event you attended, a place you went, an exciting talk, etc. 

I attended a legislative hearing in the County Council Office in Montgomery County, Maryland. During the hearing, they discussed a bill that would prevent landlords from increasing rent more than 4% for six months. They voted on the bill and it became a law. The bill was necessary for many people who are still struggling from the economic effects of COVID-19. 

Do you have any advice for future UCDC students?

Within two and a half months, you can change so much in your life. You have every minute in DC to develop yourself, stay consistent and I promise you will see great results by the time you come back.