Hi! I'm Tess. I discovered my passion for helping others with politics and policy while majoring in International Studies at American University in Washington, D.C. I learned about the issues that keep people up at night as a Congressional intern, as a Senate campaign student lead, and as a researcher for a public health advocacy organization. I also added an international perspective to my studies as a student at John Cabot University in Rome, Italy. It was there that I had the opportunity to explore my passion for genealogy and my identity as an Italian-American. Living alongside Italian locals and studying global policy with people from across the world was vital for my academic development. All these experiences broadened my awareness of relevant issues and bolstered beliefs of my own. I have also had the opportunity to conduct a semester-long research project for the U.S. State Department. Additionally, I was an invited guest speaker for events with the Guarini Institute of Public Affairs and at a “Get Out the Vote” event with Speaker Nancy Pelosi. In my free time, I explore personal projects, like my educational history podcast, Campfire Stories: Astonishing History. Now I'm ready to continue my studies in Ethics, Justice, and Human Rights so that I can continue making the world a better place for everyone. My dream is to someday be a college professor to help train the next generation of human rights and social justice advocates.