Alexandra Howard, a Junior at FIU, is on a path to greatness. Double majoring in Political Science and Digital Communications and Media in the Honors College, she is an exceptional student with a passion for advocacy. She is currently part of the Hamilton Scholar program in Washington, D.C.
When asked what inspired her to join the program, Alexandra explained, “What inspired me the most to apply to the Hamilton Scholars program was learning about advocacy in a classroom setting in our nation’s capital. I felt that this program was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to combine my passion areas of diversity, equity, and inclusion and create equitable development strategies in transportation to impact society positively. Being a Hamilton Scholar has truly helped me learn how crucial and intricate a lobbyist is in the eyes of a student.”
Alexandra’s journey in the nation’s capital has been remarkable. She currently interns with the United States Senate Committee on the Budget‘s majority staff, where her responsibilities include conducting administrative tasks, archival work, and document review. One of the most exciting aspects of her internship is reviewing sensitive documents for an ongoing and confidential investigation. In addition to her work on Capitol Hill, Alexandra is a news correspondent at FIU’s Caplin News, where she creates weekly news videos to inform South Floridians about national politics, Supreme Court cases, and Latin American affairs. Her experiences in both roles have broadened her perspective and honed her professional skills.
Alexandra’s career aspirations are as ambitious as they are impressive. Through the Hamilton Scholars Program, she has had the opportunity to network with professionals in her field. “My future career aspirations include attending law school,” she shared. “The program’s professor, Charlyn Stanberry, Esq., constantly encourages our cohort to network with professionals in the office who relate to our professional endeavors. By doing so, I have met inspirational lawyers who excite me to apply to law school. Additionally, the program has allowed me to exercise the leadership skills essential to my career goals. As the program ends later this month, I know I will leave Washington, D.C., ready to excel in any career-building opportunity I pursue.”
Alexandra has some valuable advice for prospective applicants considering the Hamilton Scholars Program. “My advice would be to apply, apply, apply! Any policy interest a potential applicant is interested in will be an amazing idea to bring into the advocacy sphere in Washington, D.C. Obtaining a paid internship here while being a Hamilton Scholar can also help you balance school and work obligations in this bustling city with an exceptional work environment.” Alexandra Howard’s journey as a Hamilton Scholar is nothing short of inspiring. Her dedication, passion, and drive testify to the transformative power of educational programs like this. As she continues to pursue her dreams and make a difference in policy and advocacy, Alexandra Howard is undoubtedly a name to watch.
To learn more about the Hamilton Scholars program, visit https://washingtondc.fiu.edu/talent-lab/hamilton-scholars/