​

Science Policy Intern: 84th Texas Legislative Session

During the spring semester of my sophomore year of college, I worked as a full-time science policy intern in the Texas House of Representatives as part of the inaugural Texas Legislative Internship Program (TLIP) cohort. My primary responsibilities included analyzing economic incentive funds to use towards establishing the Governor’s University Research Initiative (GURI), a program that brings distinguished researchers to Texas public universities. In addition, I met with constituents, non-profit organizations, and lobbyists to discuss legislation pertaining to science, technology, public health, and higher education. I also helped coordinate the Asian Pacific American Heritage Month event held at the Texas Capitol which recognized the achievements and contributions of Asian educators, business owners, and entrepreneurs in Texas. 

 

As the only intern with a STEM background at the time, I quickly realized the urgent need for effective science communication when conveying to policymakers and the general public the importance of funding scientific research. Consequently, my experience in the Texas Capitol consequently motivated me to initiate my organizational efforts with ComSciCon to help bridge this disconnect. I also frequently op-eds and and popular science pieces as a member of the National Public Radio (NPR) SciCommers (formerly Friends of Joe's Big Idea) community.