Southern California Testimonials
Michael kwok, Arcadia High school
"I learned so much from the guest speakers not only from their stories, but also from the way they present themselves with charisma. A life changing moment I saw was during the role play of a courtroom where we learned about the past legal mistreatment of many Asians due to a lack of Asians in the legal and political communities. This led me to realize how important it is to have representation of yourself (race, gender, sexual orientation) in order to for there to be laws and decisions in support of people like yourself.
I learned what a real-world work setting is like by experiencing it firsthand in Congresswoman Judy Chu's Office. A major skill I worked on was speaking comfortably over the phone and providing professional customer service to the constituents of this area. Now that the program has ended, I feel more inclined to help others whenever I can. I am more confident about speaking in general knowing that I've assisted many constituents with various issues over the phone and practiced my speaking skills."
I learned what a real-world work setting is like by experiencing it firsthand in Congresswoman Judy Chu's Office. A major skill I worked on was speaking comfortably over the phone and providing professional customer service to the constituents of this area. Now that the program has ended, I feel more inclined to help others whenever I can. I am more confident about speaking in general knowing that I've assisted many constituents with various issues over the phone and practiced my speaking skills."
Titus wu, Arcadia high school
“I saw first-hand not only how much influence public policy had on society, but also the real need for the community to be engaged with the political process in our country. The legislative internship helped me develop real-world skills and connections. I highly recommend this program.”
Andy yam, mark keppel high school
"The APIs Mobilize Program created by Annie Lam was what helped me discover my passion for public service and political science. With dynamic speakers like Trustee Mike Eng and networking opportunities, the program undoubtedly taught me new skills for my future career."
Rachel Wang, Mark keppel high school
"There are so many different careers that involve politics and advocacy. I was really inspired by the Speaker's story of his journey from starting college to where he is now. I have shared this story with many of my friends who needed encouragement. The discussion about celebrating heritage was really memorable. Of course, all the great friends I met from all over the SGV have left a lasting impression.
I learned how interning for an Assemblymember is different from interning for a Congresswoman. There are slight differences in the issues each office tackles. Additionally, I was exposed to the different events throughout the community through shadowing staff members. I would definitely recommend it to others, and already have actually! This program gives exposure to so many stories of those involved in politics in some way. It inspires students and gives them options to get involved in politics."
I learned how interning for an Assemblymember is different from interning for a Congresswoman. There are slight differences in the issues each office tackles. Additionally, I was exposed to the different events throughout the community through shadowing staff members. I would definitely recommend it to others, and already have actually! This program gives exposure to so many stories of those involved in politics in some way. It inspires students and gives them options to get involved in politics."
Talha siddiqui, North High School
"The program enlightened me about the importance of civic engagement. The program provided me with professional skill sets to go out and make a difference. We were given public speaking training and taught skills such as elevator pitches. Overall, the program not only motivated me to become more active in the political process but gave me the tools necessary to go out and be the change I wish to see.
My internship taught me a lot about constituent services and how to serve my community. I learned how to perform diverse office tasks and function in highly demanding environments such as a congressional office. My experiences in the internship played a key role in helping me secure admission to UC Berkeley. I am going to be attending UC Berkeley in the fall as junior with the major of Political Economy and Minor in Public Policy. Furthermore, I intend on interning for a local city government this summer. The program and my internship played a fundamental role in helping me gain access to these achievements.
As a child of immigrants attending public school, I simply did not have access to things such as professional skill training and legislative internships. However, this program afforded me the opportunities to learn the importance of civic engagement, interact with successful professionals and obtain a competitive internship position. This program gives students amazing opportunities that can not be found elsewhere. Furthermore, it instills the importance of civic engagement and helps create future leaders."
My internship taught me a lot about constituent services and how to serve my community. I learned how to perform diverse office tasks and function in highly demanding environments such as a congressional office. My experiences in the internship played a key role in helping me secure admission to UC Berkeley. I am going to be attending UC Berkeley in the fall as junior with the major of Political Economy and Minor in Public Policy. Furthermore, I intend on interning for a local city government this summer. The program and my internship played a fundamental role in helping me gain access to these achievements.
As a child of immigrants attending public school, I simply did not have access to things such as professional skill training and legislative internships. However, this program afforded me the opportunities to learn the importance of civic engagement, interact with successful professionals and obtain a competitive internship position. This program gives students amazing opportunities that can not be found elsewhere. Furthermore, it instills the importance of civic engagement and helps create future leaders."
Leanne Nguyen, North High School
"Not only has this program increased my confidence levels, but I genuinely enjoy standing in front of a crowd and speaking. It has raised my knowledge on social injustices going on in this moment and the program has encouraged me to bring awareness to others as well--especially APIs who are are scared to use their voice or make change."
Jonathan yu, Arcadia High School
"APIs Mobilize cemented my identity as an Asian-American and opened countless doors of opportunity for me to create the change I want to see in my community. APIs Mobilize taught me how to view my identity as a source of strength, and for that, I will be forever grateful."