What is your background?
I am an undergraduate student at Vanderbilt University, pursuing a triple major in Medicine, Health, and Society; Communication of Science and Technology; and History. Originally hailing from Presidio, Texas, a small border town, I grew up straddling the cultures of Mexico and the U.S., which instilled in me a profound appreciation for bilingualism, cultural preservation, and the real-world effects of public systems on both sides of the border. My passion lies in public health, policy, and advocacy, particularly concerning underserved communities, as I explore how language, history, and social movements influence health outcomes and civic engagement. I am an avid learner of Indigenous languages. I am also deeply interested in health history and the evolution of social justice movements across the Americas, especially how grassroots efforts have shaped policy and access to care in marginalized communities. I enjoy walking outdoors, watching movies, and reading short fiction in my leisure time. I also volunteer as a Spanish interpreter at a local hospice.
How did you learn about the intern program and why did you want to work at the Library of Congress?
While exploring internship opportunities listed on the Washington Center’s Federal Internship Programs website, a platform that connects students with public service placements, I came across the position at the Library of Congress. The role immediately caught my attention because of its unique blend of history, science, and policy, which are areas that deeply interest me. It felt like an ideal opportunity to engage with all three while developing my technical skills, particularly in digital research and preservation. I’m genuinely grateful that I applied; it has proven to be a great experience.
How would you describe your internship?
My internship experience has been enriching, highlighted by meaningful work and a supportive community. Working remotely in the Library’s Science Section, I’ve been mentored by the head of the section JJ Harbster, who has been incredibly communicative and encouraging. Despite being in different physical spaces, JJ ensures we maintain regular contact, which makes me feel welcomed and trusted in my role. My work primarily focuses on the Library’s science blog archives. I’ve been analyzing the strengths and gaps in the collection, recommending updates to the archive framework, identifying new material, and drafting a blog post to enhance the collection. I’ve also found ways to connect with fellow interns in my cohort through a group chat, fostering a friendly and collaborative environment. I’m participating in several Professional Development Series sessions, which offer valuable insights into various Library departments and help me strengthen my networking and professional branding skills, including how I present myself on LinkedIn.
What amazed you most about the Library?
What continues to strike me most about the Library of Congress is the warm and generous nature of the staff, who willingly offer their time and expertise. As a remote intern, I initially worried about feeling isolated or disconnected, but those concerns have quickly faded. From my very first day, everyone I’ve encountered, especially my mentor, has made a deliberate effort to ensure I feel like part of the team. The enthusiasm with which people approach their work is palpable; they’re eager to help, provide guidance, and share insights about their departments. Even from a distance, I can appreciate the depth of the Library’s mission through its collections and the passionate individuals who bring that mission to life.
What have you learned about the Library that you didn’t know before you started your internship?
Before my internship, I had limited knowledge about the Library of Congress, and I wasn’t aware of its vast scale, multiple divisions, or the value of its mission. I had never encountered the concept of web archiving and didn’t recognize the potential of science blogs, websites, and online articles as historical records for future researchers. However, through guidance from my mentor and the internship program, I’ve understood the importance of preserving online content, especially during critical societal shifts. The Library’s mission includes the real-time capture of our culture and knowledge. Contributing to that effort has been and continues to be an unforgettable experience.