Blogs

National Migrant and Seasonal Head Start Association (NMSHSA) Executive Director Cleo Rodriguez, Jr. recounts tales of tragedy and triumph in the policy and advocacy work required to successfully expand Migrant Head Start eligibility for farmworker families.

Originally published in Progress Report, powered by UNIDOSUS.

This summer will be unforgettable. As I leave, I will cherish every memory I made with the NMSHSA, my cohort, my placement and DC overall. But most importantly I will make sure that I follow my inspirations and return to the nation's capital.

Interning in DC has sparked my interest in political lobbying and maybe even running for office. I'm grateful to my NMSHSA family for this opportunity to grow and will always cherish memories like scootering around DC and visiting NYC.

Reflecting on my NMSHSA internship in Washington, D.C., I am grateful. From meaningful conversations at Unidos US to memorable team dinners, biking around the National Mall, and embracing every opportunity—this summer has been transformative.

In this internship, my goal was to make connections and build relationships. Working at the Child Labor Coalition, Reid Maki has been someone I can call a mentor. Having him as a mentor has helped me get a deeper understanding of my career.