**Option 2: Policy and Government Aspirations** My interest in policy and government comes from growing up understanding that systems can shape a person’s future long before they have any control over it. My childhood was impacted by chemical dependency within my biological family, incarceration, instability, trauma, and eventually entering foster care. Those experiences showed me that policies are not abstract ideas. They influence where people live, what resources they can access, and whether they are given opportunities to succeed. Because of those experiences, I plan to pursue a degree in Criminal Justice with the long term goal of becoming an attorney. I am especially interested in state and local government because those levels often create the most direct and immediate impact on people’s daily lives. Decisions made locally affect schools, child welfare systems, public safety, access to services, and community resources. State governments shape many of the policies that determine how families and young people receive support. I care deeply about policy issues connected to youth support systems and creating opportunities for children affected by addiction, trauma, and instability. I believe children should not lose access to opportunity because of circumstances they did not choose. I am interested in policies that strengthen access to education, improve support for foster youth, expand mentorship opportunities, and help young adults successfully transition into independence. My interest in government also grew through practical experiences. Through internships, I had opportunities to observe public service environments and better understand how decisions affect communities. Those experiences helped me see that meaningful change often happens through steady work, collaboration, and listening to people with different perspectives. Civil discourse plays an important role in shaping public policy because effective leadership requires understanding experiences beyond your own. People can disagree without dismissing one another. Some of the most meaningful solutions happen when individuals are willing to listen first and debate respectfully. Policies become stronger when they consider the perspectives of people who are directly affected. Growing up, I learned that being heard can change someone’s future. Because of that, I want my future career to focus not only on legal work but also on advocacy and creating systems that help people move forward. My goal is not simply to serve in government or build a career in law. My goal is to help create policies that expand opportunity, strengthen communities, and ensure that people who have experienced difficult beginnings still have a path toward success. **Civic, Leadership, Mediation, or Policy Related Roles** • Summer Intern, City Hall (dates and contact information to be added) • Summer Intern, District Attorney’s Office, Elk Grove (dates and contact information to be added)