This semester, two HIU students have the honor of interning at the California District Office of Congressman Ed Royce (R-CA 39th District), who has been serving as a member of the United States House of Representatives since 1993. Internships in Rep. Royce's California District Office (Brea) offer a great opportunity for students to experience our government first-hand and learn more about the 39th Congressional district. Congressional internships provide insight into the operations of the federal government and the U.S. Congress.

Below, Taylor Liua and Brady Lange each share a little bit about themselves and their prestigous internship experience so far.

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My name is Taylor Liua, and I'm a senior at Hope International University. I'm a Social Science major with a concentration in Human Services. I heard about the internship with Congressman Ed Royce through my professor, Dr. Roberto Sirvent. I was really excited about the prospect of being an intern for a congressman, but didn't think I would ever have such an opportunity. Needless to say, I was so honored when I was offered the position!

I've learned many things in my first month as an intern, but the most important one has been the need for community involvement. No matter how dedicated public servants are, real change comes from everyone coming together to work towards a common goal. In my American Government class at HIU, I learned that the one the most effective ways to help solve problems in the community is to participate in local government. By interning for Congressman Royce, I feel like I am able to help give a voice for others in the community, as well as be a part of positive change.

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My name is Brady Adam Lange. I am currently a junior at HIU, majoring in Social Science with a concentration in Criminal Justice. My career goal is to become an attorney and eventually seek political office and public service. This summer I received an email from Professor Roberto Sirvent regarding an internship opportunity at Representative Ed Royce’s office. Ed Royce is the esteemed California Representative of the 39thDistrict and Chairmen of the Foreign Affairs Committee. When Professor Sirvent told me about the possibility of an internship with Representative Royce, I was incredibly humbled to be considered and eager to submit my resume. 

I have been blessed with an amazing opportunity to participate in national politics at the grassroots level. I am so grateful for all that I have learned during my first month of internship representing and serving my Congressman, who truly cares about both the domestic and foreign issues that touch the lives of his constituents. A lot of my internship deals with talking to constituents who may be angry, concerned, alarmed, or just wanting to express support for the Congressman and the values he represents. 

HIU's spirited classroom debates and respectful and open discussions have enabled me to develop and hone essential communication skills. These skills have allowed me to effectively handle a wide variety of phone calls and interactions with energized constituents that seek to have their voices heard and their views acknowledged. I give credit to HIU for stressing the importance of the development of effective oral and written communication skills.

One of the things I love about HIU is the real sense of community in and out of the classroom. All political, social, and religious views have a forum for expression. This appreciation for diverse points of views guides my actions as I deal with the Republicans, Democrats, and Independents of the 39th District who care enough about our nation’s governance to make their voices heard.

My internship opportunity has been a highlight of my university experience so far. I would highly recommend it for any student seeking a greater understanding of the American political system at the grassroots level.