Andrew Applewhite
Office of Congressman Jake Ellzey
ABOUT ANDREW
Andrew Applewhite, a rising senior Political Science major from Dallas, Texas, discovered his passion for politics through a conversation with his grandfather, a University of Texas alumnus, about the importance of representing the voice of the people. Although his family has roots with the Longhorns, Andrew saw the light and chose to attend Texas A&M alongside his twin sister in the fall of 2021. He has been involved in multiple student organizations in Aggieland, including the Handball Club, MSC Abbott, Brothers Under Christ, and the Student Government. The past year, Andrew served as Student Body President of Texas A&M. His commitment to public service continues this summer as he interns with the Office of Congressman Jake Ellzey this summer. Looking forward, Andrew plans to deepen his understanding of law and policy by pursuing a law degree after graduating in May of 2025.
Allie Cerling
Office of Planning, Analysis, and Accountability, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
ABOUT ALLIE
Allie Cerling, a first-year Master of Public Service and Administration student at the Bush School of Government and Public Service, earned her Bachelor of Science in Sociology with minors in Neuroscience and History from Texas A&M University in 2023. Actively engaged in various roles, she also serves as a communications and membership intern for the National Youth Employment Coalition and as a student research assistant for the Bush School’s Economic Statecraft Program. Allie’s commitment to research and community service is evident through her past experiences, including research on interracial bias at Houston Christian University, where she also presented findings in February 2022. Furthermore, she has contributed her skills and passion to organizations such as the Houston City Council and Brookwood Community, a nonprofit aiding adults with special needs. Allie’s interests include social welfare policy, and she aspires to work with the government and nonprofits in creating more equitable communities. This summer Allie will be interning in the Office of Planning, Analysis, and Accountability for the U.S. Environnmental Protection Agency. She looks forward to a summer in Washington D.C. and learning from the history of the city.
Megan Dean
Office of Congressman Tony Gonzales
ABOUT MEGAN
Megan Dean, a senior at Texas A&M University, is currently pursuing her Bachelor of Science in Political Science with the Bush School of Government and Public Service. Megan's commitment to service and leadership is evident through her active involvement on campus, notably serving as the Assistant Director for the Conference on Student Government Associations (COSGA). Her passion for fostering leadership extends to her three-year participation in Freshmen Leaders in ArtSci Reaching Excellence (FLARE), where she held multiple leadership positions, showcasing her dedication to empowering her peers. Megan's interest in public policy was further ignited during her internship at the City of Southlake, Texas, where she worked diligently in the City Manager’s office. Eager to broaden her horizons, Megan embarked on a transformative study abroad experience in Aix-en-Provence, France during the summer of 2023, enhancing her cultural awareness and language proficiency. Currently interning with the Office of Congressman Tony Gonzales, Megan endeavors to acquire invaluable experience in public service while in Washington, D.C., setting the stage for her future career aspirations in foreign policy.
Joshua Hillman
Office of U.S. Senator Ted Cruz
ABOUT JOSHUA
Joshua Hillman, originally from Sweeny, TX, is currently a rising junior at Texas A&M University, where he is majoring in Economics. Joshua stands out as a committed scholar, actively participating in the Fast-Track M.S./B.S. Economics program with a minor in Mathematics. His academic journey is marked by excellence and a fervent dedication to public service. Among his achievements, Joshua has been honored with induction into the prestigious Phi Kappa Phi honor society and awarded the esteemed Melbern Glasscock Humanities Award for his research on the empirical relationship between constitutional property rights and foreign investment. Joshua’s dedication to learning and serving others goes beyond his academic pursuits. Last summer, he interned at the Office of the Attorney General in Austin, where he discovered his passion for law and community service. This summer, Joshua is furthering his professional development through an internship with the Office of U.S. Senator Ted Cruz.
Cecil Lara
White House Initiative on Advancing Educational Equity, Excellence and Economic Opportunity for Hispanics
ABOUT CECIL
Cecil Lara, a junior from Frisco, Texas, is currently pursuing a degree in Political Science with minors in Business and Communications. As a proud second-generation Aggie, Cecil is deeply involved in various student organizations at Texas A&M University. Dedicated to serving members of the student body, Cecil currently serves as a Class Agent and has previously served as the Sophomore Class of 2025 President and Vice Chair within Class Councils, demonstrating his leadership skills and commitment to campus engagement. Additionally, Cecil has dedicated his time mentoring incoming freshmen as a counselor for Fish Camp, fostering a supportive community for new students. His advocacy extends beyond campus borders, as evidenced by his participation in Orange and Maroon Legislative Day, where he collaborated with fellow Aggies to engage state legislators in advocating for policies benefiting Texas A&M. Active in Greek life, Cecil is a member of Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity and contributes to campus outreach as a tour guide with the visitor’s center. Cecil’s passion for public service was further ignited through a summer internship with the Texas State Senate, serving SD-16 and the constituents of North Dallas. Now as he prepares for his time in Washington D.C., Cecil is eager to gain valuable experience working alongside passionate individuals. Furthering his dedication to public service and advocacy, Cecil will be interning with the U.S. Department of Education, working with the White House Initiative on Advancing Educational Equity, Excellence and Economic Opportunity for Hispanics.
Ryan Linder
Association of Diplomatic Studies & Training
ABOUT RYAN
Ryan Lindner, recently graduated with a degree in political science and a minor in history from Texas A&M University in May 2024, and is now interning at the Association for Diplomatic Studies and Training. His passion for international relations was ignited during a study abroad experience in Western Europe, where he explored the intricacies of the European Union and Transatlantic partnerships. Ryan’s interest in public policy was further nurtured through two internships at the Office of Congressman John Carter, offering him a firsthand look at the legislative process and its impact on public life. During his time at Texas A&M, he served as the head opinion editor at the student newspaper, The Battalion, managing the opinion desk’s operations, editing, and collaborating with writers. Post-internship, Ryan will pursue a master’s degree in public and international affairs at the University of Pittsburgh, focusing on security and intelligence studies. He aims to deepen his understanding of diplomatic roles and the influence of Foreign Service workers on America’s foreign policy during his internship.
Hailey Luensmann
The Gober Group
ABOUT HAILEY
Hailey Luensmann, from Gatesville, Texas, is a junior in the Business Honors Program at Mays Business School, majoring in finance with a minor in English. During her time at Texas A&M, Hailey has actively engaged in diverse student organizations, assuming leadership roles such as President of the Business Honors Association and Vice President of Human Resources for Aggie Women in Business. Her involvement extends to being a fish camp counselor, a delegate at the MSC Spencer Leadership Conference, and a member of the Pre-Law Society. Passionate about fostering civil discourse, Hailey leads semesterly workshops aimed at promoting educated and mature political discussions among students. With a deep-seated interest in law and policy, Hailey plans to pursue law school following her anticipated graduation in May 2026. Her legal aspirations span various fields, including environmental law and sustainability, criminal law reform for equitable justice, and corporate law advocating for social responsibility. This Summer, Hailey is a Legal Intern with Vantage Legal, PLLC, a law firm specializing in political law, campaign finance, non-profit law, and legal advisors across multiple industries. She will have the opportunity to gain experience in numerous areas of the law while learning from an outstanding team of attorneys. Eager to gain invaluable experiences in Washington, D.C., Hailey looks forward to shaping her future and preparing for a fulfilling legal career.
Abigail McKenna
U.S. Naval History & Heritage Command
ABOUT ABIGAIL
Abigail McKenna, a Junior at Texas A&M University Galveston, is pursuing a major in Maritime Studies with minors in Marine Environmental Law and Policy and Maritime Cybersecurity. Abigail is passionate about maritime policy and law and has actively engaged in student governance, serving as the twice elected Student Body Vice President, and contributing to various roles within the Student Senate, Student Judiciary, and as a part of the Executive team of the Chancellor’s Student Advisory Council. In addition to her commitment to student governance, Abigail conducts academic research in Blue Justice. Eager to deepen her understanding of maritime policy and law, Abigail is excited about the opportunity to learn and gain more experience with the Naval History and Heritage Command branch of the U.S. Navy!
Gavin Monk
Texas A&M University Government Relations & Office of Speaker Mike Johnson
ABOUT GAVIN
Gavin Monk, a junior at the Bush School of Government and Public Service at Texas A&M University, is majoring in political science. As a second-generation Aggie from Dallas, Texas, Gavin combines his academic pursuits with a rich engagement in extracurricular activities and a passion for music, playing instruments such as the guitar, piano, and drums. His involvement on campus is extensive; he joined the Kappa Sigma Fraternity, participated as a delegate for the Gilbert Leadership Conference, and was a member of Freshman Leaders in Christ. Gavin has also been elected twice as an Off-Campus Senator for the Texas A&M Student Government Association and served as the president of Aggies for Cruz. Professionally, he has experience working with his high school drumline post-graduation, at Camp Ozark, and on Jeff Landry’s gubernatorial campaign in Louisiana. Eager to further his understanding of governmental processes, Gavin is thrilled to be spending this summer in Washington D.C. through the Public Policy Internship Program, seeking new opportunities to deepen his knowledge of political institutions.
Riley Pritzlaff
Office of U.S. Senator John Cornyn
ABOUT RILEY
Riley James Pritzlaff, a junior economics major from Cedar Park, Texas, is set to pursue a Master of Public Service and Administration at the Bush School of Government and Public Service this fall. Actively engaged in campus life, Riley serves as the President of the Residential Housing Association and is currently in his third term as a Student Senator, focusing on improving the student experience on campus. He previously led the Freshman Class Tradition as the Head Director within the Class Councils Organization. Riley's campus involvement not only enhances student life but also cultivates vital leadership skills. This past summer, Riley gained valuable insights into public service at both the local and state levels. As a municipal pool manager, he provided essential recreational services to the community, while his internship at the Office of Texas Governor Greg Abbott in the Economic Development-Finance Division offered firsthand experience in policy implementation. Inspired by these experiences and fueled by a passion for public service, Riley aims to pursue a career in economic policy. This summer, he will be interning in the Office of Senator John Cornyn, where he hopes to further develop his understanding of the legislative and policy-making process.
Cayman Raemsch
The Fertilizer Institute
ABOUT CAYMAN
Cayman Raemsch, a first-year graduate student at the Bush School of Government and Public Service from Bastrop, Texas, is currently pursuing a Master of Public Administration with a concentration in Energy, Environment, and Technology Policy and Management. Prior to her graduate studies, she earned a Bachelor of Science in Urban and Regional Planning from Texas A&M University alongside a Minor in Sustainable Architecture. Cayman's passion for sustainability dates back to her youth, and she is determined to promote the adoption of renewable energy in the United States as her primary career goal. Her journey into public service began in 2022 when she spent six months working as an Economic and Community Development Planner for the Brazos Valley Council of Governments. Engaged in her campus community, Cayman is a member of the Aggie Rosies, the Texas A&M Symphonic Winds, and the Century Singers. During her undergraduate studies, she served as Treasurer for the Aggie Rosies for two years and as Service Chair for one year. Cayman will be interning with The Fertilizer Institute this summer and is looking forward to working on projects related to policy and advocacy issues regarding transportation, sustainability, and the environment.
Brandon Rea
Texas A&M University System Office of Federal Relations
ABOUT BRANDON
Brandon, a senior political science major from Fort Worth, Texas, and has cultivated a passion for public service, particularly in public administration, following an internship last summer with the City of Keller as an Economic Development Intern. At Texas A&M, he has been actively involved in various campus organizations, serving as Speaker Pro Tempore in the Student Senate, Undergraduate Liaison for the Bush School Ambassadors Council, and President of Theta Chi Fraternity. His leadership in Theta Chi has been instrumental in enhancing the fraternity's focus on philanthropy, service, and alumni relations. Additionally, Brandon works as a campus tour guide, sharing insights about Texas A&M's educational offerings and student services with prospective students and families. His interests span education policy, economic development, and business/economic policy and planning, driving his ambition to make impactful contributions in these areas after graduation. Brandon will be interning with the Texas A&M University System Office of Federal Relations.
Zach Rehfeld
U.S. Department of Commerce - International Trade Administration, Office of the Deputy Director General for the U.S. Foreign Commercial Service
ABOUT ZACH
Zach Rehfeld is a sophomore Business Honors and management information systems major. After completing his undergraduate studies, he plans to attend law school. During his time at Texas A&M, Zach has been the Vice President of Internal Affairs in the Business Student Council, President of the Texas A&M Undergraduate Chapter of the Federalist Society, and a research intern with the Bush Economic Statecraft Program. Additionally, Zach works for the Athletic Department at Texas A&M where he works in the IT department and is a member of BUILD. Zach is excited to learn more about public policy this summer in Washington D.C. He applied for the Public Policy Internship Program to expand his skillset, and to learn more about politics in our nation’s capital.
Brody Rembold
Cornerstone Government Affairs
ABOUT BRODY
Brody Rembold, a senior first-generation Aggie from Overland Park, Kansas, is currently majoring in Political Science with minors in business and Spanish. Actively involved in campus life, Brody is a current member of the Corps of Cadets in Squadron 17 and has participated in Parsons Mounted Cavalry and the Big Event. A passionate supporter of A&M football, he eagerly anticipates the return of the annual rivalry game against t.u. at Kyle Field. After graduation, Brody plans to commission into the United States Air Force, aspiring to serve as an Intelligence or Contracting officer before transitioning to the public sector to pursue a career in diplomacy. Beyond his academic and career pursuits, Brody enjoys traveling, backpacking, and trying new foods. With limited prior visits to D.C., he is excited to experience life in a large city through the Public Policy Internship Program. This summer, Brody will be interning with Cornerstone Government Affairs and is eager to explore the complexities of public policy and its intersections with the private sector while exploring the diverse offerings of the nation's capital and its surroundings.
Nanako Renfroe
Association for Diplomatic Studies and Training
ABOUT NANAKO
Nanako Renfroe is a driven individual with a diverse background in military service and international studies. Graduating from Southern Oregon University (SOU) in 2023 with a Bachelor of Arts in International Studies, she concurrently serves as a cadet in the SOU Army Reserve Officers’ Training Corp (ROTC) program and the Oregon Army National Guard. With prior experience as an all-source intelligence analyst, Nanako developed a deep passion for studying international affairs, complemented by earning as Associate of Applied Science in Intelligence Operations Studies from Cochise College in 2020. Dedicated to her future in the foreign service, Nanako pursued language studies in Japanese, Arabic, and Spanish while serving as an Associate Justice for the Associated Students of Southern Oregon University. Commissioning as a 2nd Lieutenant for the Texas Army National Guard in June 2023, Nanako is currently a first-year master student at the Bush School of Government and Public Service at Texas A&M University – focusing on international affairs with concentrations in grand strategy, intelligence, and diplomacy. She aims to graduate in Winter 2025 and pursue a career as a Foreign Service Officer in Washington D.C., while continuing her service to the Army National Guard. Nanako’s leadership philosophy prioritizes the health and welfare of her soldier and country – driving her commitment to public service and her dual roles in the military and foreign affairs.
Audrey Schabel
U.S. Department of Commerce International Trade Administration Office of Southeast Asia
ABOUT AUDREY
Audrey Schabel is a philosophy major at Texas A&M University from Aledo, Texas. She plans to graduate in May 2025. Audrey is excited to intern at the Department of Commerce International Trade Administration Office of Southeast Asia this summer in Washington, D.C. During her junior year of college, she served on her dorm's Community Council as Vice President of Finance and was a member of Aggie Sisters for Christ and Ratio Christi. Audrey's passion for policy and the structures surrounding it started in high school when she competed in policy debate. After earning her degree in 2025, she plans to attend law school.
Sanay Sheth
Todd Strategy Group
ABOUT SANAY
Sanay Sheth, a junior at Texas A&M University, and is set to graduate in 2025 with a degree in Public Health. He is also a member of the Broad Street Public Health Honors Program and the University Honors Program. He is a first-generation Aggie from Allen, Texas, with plans to attend medical school and eventually become a physician. Currently, he works as an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) with TAMU EMS, providing critical care to students and community members. Additionally, he volunteers at St. Joseph's Oncology Department and has worked as a medical scribe at Legacy ER and Urgent Care. Driven by a desire to address healthcare disparities, Sanay is actively engaged in research projects such as the Consumer Access Project and a diversity analysis for the ophthalmological condition known as Keratoconus. His leadership extends to extracurricular involvement as the treasurer of ASTEP (Aggies in Science, Technology, and Engineering Policy), where he contributes his knowledge of health policy alongside his financial responsibilities. Last semester, Sanay was recognized with the Gathright Outstanding Junior Award, annually awarded to one junior in each college department with a strong academic and extracurricular record. Sanay is interning with Todd Strategy Group as a health policy intern this summer. He looks forward to understanding more about the policies that govern healthcare on a federal level. Sanay plans to combine medicine and policy to improve health outcomes so the care he provides is not limited to the walls of a hospital.
Hendrix Taylor
Office of Congressman Ronny Jackson
ABOUT HENDRIX
Hendrix Taylor’s journey is marked by a profound commitment to service and a thirst for knowledge. Coming from Jacksboro, Texas, he enlisted in the United States Army as a combat medic after graduating high school in 2017, serving at Fort Hood, TX, and later at Camp Hovey, South Korea. Throughout four years of military service, Hendrix demonstrated resilience and dedication to his fellow soldiers. Transitioning to civilian life, he embarked on a new path at Texas A&M University, pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Political Science. Engaged in campus life, Hendrix joined the Corps of Cadets, where he serves as his unit's chaplain and contributes to leadership and teaching within the Corps’ prior service outfit. Hendrix’s aspirations extend beyond undergraduate studies; he plans to further his education by pursuing a Master's in Political Science. With a keen interest in policymaking and public service, he aims to leverage his academic background to make a difference on Capitol Hill. Hendrix will be interning for Rep. Ronny Jackson.
Khang Tran Nguyen
U.S. Department of Treasury, Office of Foregin Asset Control - Global Targeting Division
ABOUT KHANG
Khang Tran Nguyen, a native of Arlington, Texas, recently graduated from Texas A&M University, Bush School of Government and Public Service with a B.A. in Political Science and a minor in Public Health, achieving Magna Cum Laude with University Honors Distinction. As a Debakey/Aggie research scholar, Khang has made significant contributions to various research fields, including Chinese Economic Statecraft, Grand Strategy, International Trade, and Strategic Lithium Markets. Guided by esteemed faculty members such Dr. Diego von Vacano, Dr. William Norris and Dr. Rich Cooper, he actively participated in stakeholder dialogue exchanges, contributed to the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) database, and conducted market analysis in the global lithium trade. Additionally, Khang demonstrated his commitment to campus engagement by serving as a Student Senator, competing on the Texas A&M Mock Trial Team, and is a member of the Texas A&M Pre-Law Society. Khang will be interning at the Office Foreign Asset Control – Global Targeting Division at the United States Department of the Treasury.
Ezra Villarreal
Twenty-First Century Group
ABOUT EZRA
Ezra Villarreal, a sophomore political science major from Corpus Christi, Texas, combines his passion for publics service with his roles both on and off campus. He currently works for Texas A&M Intramural Sports, where he oversees intramural flag football competition and is an active member of the men’s organization, Paradigm, which supports the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society through fundraising efforts. Ezra’s prior internship with the Port of Corpus Christi’s Government Affairs Department exposed him to political operations and sparked his aspiration to work in Washington D.C. His interests in foreign affairs, particularly concerning the Middle East and Europe, are deepened by his love for history. Additionally, growing up close to the US/Mexico border has fueled his interest in immigration policy, alongside his passion for education and infrastructure policy. Ezra plans to pursue graduate studies and study abroad to further understand international politics and diplomacy, aiming to leverage this background in his upcoming summer internship in Washington D.C. He hopes to make his mark in Washington D.C. this summer while interning for the Twenty-First Century Group.
Sophie Villarreal
Office of Congressman Al Green
ABOUT SOPHIE
Sophie Villarreal, a junior majoring in Telecommunication Media Studies with minors in journalism and philosophy, is carving a path toward law school with a solid foundation in ethics and social media. With significant contributions to The Battalion, Texas A&M's student newspaper, Sophie has risen from guest contributor to social media editor, enhancing her journalistic journey. Additionally, her role at Insite Magazine further enhances her experience in creating hyper-consumable content. Sophie’s impact extends beyond editorial positions as she serves as a teaching assistant for four communication and journalism classes, showcasing her commitment to educational excellence and innovation. Living in Houston, Texas, Sophie's passion for public policy fuels her ambition to enact change on a national scale, leading her to participate in the Public Policy Internship Program in Washington D.C. As an intern with Congressman Al Green on Capitol Hill, Sophie is determined to make a significant impact and explore further opportunities in the nation's capital post-graduation. Sophie aspires to have a career in law, focusing on public policy to champion inclusivity and equity for marginalized communities. Her experiences and dedication to understanding and influencing the legislative process position her as a future leader in public policy and legal reform.
Alex Volpe
Office of Congressman John Carter
ABOUT ALEX
Alexander Volpe is a graduating Junior with a B.A. in political science and a B.A. in German from the Texas A&M University Class of 2024. As an avid student of history, politics, philosophy, and global language, Alex is elated to have the opportunity and the chance to go to Washington, DC and intern for the summer in the office of the Texas 31st District under Judge John Carter. Throughout his time at Texas A&M University, Alex was an active member of the Education Abroad department, serving as a peer advisor and Student Abroad Ambassador. In addition to that, Alex actively pursued German, and his primary goal of coming to college, aside from expanding his knowledge of political science with capable faculty, was achieving the advanced level in a second language. This culminated in several study abroad experiences and the opportunity to participate in the PPIP program last summer in Berlin with le CIFE. Alex’s experience at TAMU and abroad helped to refine his interpersonal skills to best navigate and contribute to the ever-changing flow of work and people in Washington DC. He hopes to continue pursuing his passions and ultimately have the privilege to work for the State Department and encourage international learning and cooperation both abroad and domestically to give more Americans the chance to see the other in a meaningful way.
Rylan Whitcomb
Office of Congressman Pete Sessions
ABOUT RYLAN
Rylan Whitcomb, a junior at the Bush School of Government and Public Service, is dedicated to serving her community and shaping the future of politics and public service. Pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, she serves as an Associate Justice and the Clerk of the Texas A&M Judicial Court, ensuring students' rights are upheld and voices are heard. Beyond her leadership roles in the Student Government Association, Rylan is an active member of the Texas A&M Pre Law Society and Kappa Kappa Gamma. She enjoys volunteering with Big Brothers Big Sisters and has established a mentoring relationship with her little sister. Rylan is a fitness instructor at Tone360 and aspires to make other women feel confident and strong. Recognized as a "Semper Fidelis" All-American by the United States Marine Corps, Rylan embodies the fighting spirit that Marines stand for by excelling academically, contributing to her community, and demonstrating leadership. After graduating in May of 2025, she plans to pursue a law degree, exploring her calling to politics and public service. Her policy interests include education and equal rights. Rylan is passionate about closing the gender gap in political ambition and unlocking the potential of female leadership. She enjoys reading Harry Potter and singing Hamilton with friends. Rylan will be interning with the Office of Congressman Pete Sessions.