Week 7: The Calm After The Storm

Monday 07.07.25 - Saturday 07.12.25

On Monday, I took a half-day off from programming to say goodbye to my mother and sister after spending the entire weekend with them. We went out to eat before walking to the airport, where we said our goodbyes. I had the best time with them during their visit, and I’m glad they got to get a glimpse of this journey of mine. I can’t wait to see them again in just a few weeks.

On Tuesday, I returned to work feeling a bit sad because one of the interns I was closest to had finished her internship the previous week, and for the first time, no one was sitting next to me. On the bright side, things at work began to settle down after the busy Fourth of July week. It felt so much calmer, which allowed me to focus on some other portfolios in my office that are normally outside of my assigned tasks. I love to learn, so being able to engage with different pieces of legislation was both inspiring and interesting. I never knew how much I was interested in legislation revolving around education. That night, HEP/CAMP and NMSHSA Summer 2025 interns collaborated and hung out. We started with dinner, enjoyed cookies and ice cream for dessert, and made a stop at a boba shop. I honestly had an amazing time with everyone. It means everything to connect with people who understand the challenges of being a farmworker and know how important this internship is to us. They are definitely some of the best people I've met!

On Thursday, I needed to prioritize my well-being and took a day off due to a migraine. Juggling many responsibilities, it’s crucial to listen to our bodies and minds. That day of rest was a vital reminder that we can’t give our all if we’re not feeling our best. I was able to feel better by getting extra sleep and taking care of myself. Later, I had the pleasure of seeing Virginia and Patrick at our HEP/CAMP meeting.

On Saturday, a few HEP/CAMP and CHCI interns volunteered at a Know Your Rights Canvassing Event. We went around communities in Maryland, handing out Red Cards that list people’s rights. We also spoke to local businesses, educating them on how they can support and protect the community and their customers. This event meant everything to me. Being back in a community felt refreshing. It’s communities that are deeply involved in politics and eager to fight for their rights that remind me why I am here and what I am fighting for. Additionally, I learned about my rights and what businesses can do, and I was able to pass on this education to others. It was touching to see how eager people were to understand their rights. Even the mayor of the town we were in came out to help canvass! After the event, Lesly, Ivette, and I went to the Pentagon City Mall and then to the Kennedy Center to watch the sunset. All in all, it was a delightful and rejuvenating week!