Public Policy Scholars Program (PPSP)
About PPSP
The Texas A&M University System Office of Academic Affairs is proud to support a special partnership between the staff of the Public Policy Internship Program and the Bush School of Government and Public Service at Texas A&M University where undergraduate students from every university across the System can intern in Washington, D.C. for a semester while earning course credit.
Most notably, this partnership comes with the creation of a new D.C.-based program, the Public Policy Scholars Program (PPSP), which will provide selected System university undergraduate students with invaluable hands-on internship experience in public policy, coupled with an enhanced academic experience.
The program will provide students with 6 hours of in-person coursework developed and taught by distinguished faculty from the Bush School of Government and Public Service, focusing on current issues and special topics relevant to Washington, D.C. and the American political system. Students will attend classes two days a week at the Bush School DC Teaching Site, located just blocks from the White House. Additionally, students will intern three days a week in a hosting office and earn between 0-6 hours of internship credit. The internship credit is variable, meaning students can choose to take 0-6 hours depending on what they need for their degree plan and/or to remain financial aid eligible.
Students will benefit from a curriculum that emphasizes critical thinking, policy analysis, and real-world application, equipping them with the skills and knowledge necessary for a successful career in public service.
Apply to PPSP
Students must submit application materials by the designated dates/times listed below.
Application
Please complete the form to gain access to the application(s).
Required Documents
- Completed PPSP application (typed)
- Professional cover letter
- Professional resume
- Policy essay
- Screenshot of current semester class schedule
- Official college transcript
- Letters of recommendation
Application & Placement Process
Things to Consider
Eligibility
As a premier professional internship experience, the Public Policy Scholars Program (PPSP) establishes high standards for our scholars. Please review the eligibility requirements carefully.
Note: U.S. Citizenship is required for all PPSP locations, due to the requirements of our hosting offices. If you are not a U.S. Citizen but would like to explore opportunities similar to what PPSP offers, please email program staff at policyscholars@ag.tamu.edu for a list of options you may be eligible for.
Applicants must meet all of the following criteria to be eligible for PPSP:
- The student must be a United States citizen and at least 18 years old; permanent residents are not eligible for this program.
- The student must be classified as a degree-seeking undergraduate student at a school within the Texas A&M University System. Students cannot participate in the program post-graduation.
- The student must have a cumulative collegiate GPR of 3.0. First-semester freshmen are not eligible to apply.
- The student must be in good standing with their home institution, pursuant to their university’s Academic and Student Life rules.
- The student must obtain and carry valid health insurance for the duration of the internship semester.
- The student must be able to attend all program trainings and pre-departure events, which will be administered virtually.
Logistics to Consider
Before applying to the Public Policy Scholars Program, please review and take the information below into consideration. If you have any further questions or concerns, contact the program staff at policyscholars@ag.tamu.edu.
Meet the DC Scholars
Andrew Michael Deliganis
Office of Congressman Henry Cuéllar
U.S. Representative for Texas’s 28th Congressional District
Andrew Deliganis is a driven student, majoring in political science and minoring in economics at Texas A&M International University, he is on track to graduate in May 2027. With a passion for policy research, cross-functional collaboration, and practical governance, he aspires to pursue graduate studies and contribute to federal policy initiatives in Washington, D.C.
In his role as a Student Manager at Texas A&M International University, he oversees event operations and guides student employees. In this role, he ensures adherence to university safety standards and maintains inventory readiness for high-traffic campus events. He has completed over 1,500 work orders and played a key role in streamlining event logistics across departments. These positions have honed his leadership, organization, and cross-functional collaboration skills, critical aspects for success in policy policy-driven workspace.
Through his academic and professional experiences, Andrew has gained a well-rounded skill set that supports his interest in policy and public service. He has demonstrated strengths in leadership, critical thinking, and adaptability under pressure. His research and analytical abilities have been shaped by both coursework and hands-on roles requiring problem-solving and decision-making.
Andrew aims to become a political analyst with a strong foundation in policy research, advocacy, and political strategy. His current policy interests include immigration, healthcare, and human rights, and he is eager to build the knowledge and skills needed to effectively advocate in these areas.
As he continues to grow academically and professionally, Andrew remains committed to making the most of opportunities to deepen his knowledge of the political workspace. He is determined to expand his impact and build a career rooted in informed analysis, civic engagement, and meaningful advocacy. This fall Andrew will be interning in the office of Congressman Henry Cuéllar, U.S. Representative for Texas’s 28th Congressional District.
Luiza Freitas
Office of Senator John Cornyn (R-TX)
United States Senate
Luiza Freitas is a sophomore at Texas A&M University pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, from Tomball, Texas. A Brazilian American, Luiza is fluent in both English and Portuguese. As a first-generation American, Luiza’s experience has made her passionate about public policy and law.
Luiza has seen how all-encompassing policy issues are and plans on deepening her knowledge to create a difference in her community. She is determined to give back to her community and nation by working in public service, both academically and professionally. Through her studies, she strives for opportunities to participate in meaningful debates, create an atmosphere for open discussion, and make connections with her peers. Luiza has maintained part-time jobs throughout college and works hard to support herself and her future.
During her time at Texas A&M, she has engaged in activities meant to serve her community through organizations like MSC Town Hall and Fish Camp. In MSC Town Hall, she has worked hard to bring live events to campus and improve her own skills in outreach, marketing, and event-planning. Luiza chose to take part in Fish Camp because she wanted to help other first-year students achieve the sense of belonging that has changed her college experience. In Fish Camp, she has directly mentored incoming first-year students and has worked on coordinating events focused on making their experience the best it can be.
After graduating, Luiza hopes to attend law school and pursue a career as an attorney. She aspires to work in criminal law. Luiza plans to become a public defender and help those in need. This fall she will be interning in the Office of Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) where she is excited to be impacting policy on a national level.
James Gasiorowski
Office of Congressman John Carter
U.S. Representative for Texas’s 31st Congressional District
James Gasiorowski is a political science major at Texas A&M University–Corpus Christi with a passion for public service, a sharp interest in criminal law, and a drive to make government more responsive and fairer. Originally from Pearland, Texas, James has always been curious about how power is exercised and how it can be used to protect the rights of everyday people.
At TAMU-Corpus Christi, James served in the judicial branch of the Student Government Association, where he reviewed student appeals and promoted fairness on campus. He is also a proud member of Pi Sigma Alpha, the National Political Science Honor Society.
James recently interned with the Nueces County District Attorney’s Office, where he got an inside look at the criminal justice system in action. From helping prepare case materials to observing court proceedings, the experience deepened his interest in prosecution and confirmed his desire to pursue a legal career.
James plans to attend law school and become a criminal prosecutor, with a long-term goal of running for Congress. He is passionate about ensuring justice is not only pursued but also accessible, and he hopes to use his career to build public trust and promote transparency. Whether tackling tough legal questions or helping someone feel heard, James brings energy, empathy, and determination to the table every time.
Sergio Gonzales
United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia
Sex Offense and Domestic Violence Section
Sergio Gonzales is a senior at West Texas A&M University, where he’s majoring in political science with a minor in pre-law. Originally from Roswell, New Mexico, he graduated from the New Mexico Military Institute, where early college coursework sparked his interest in government and the legal system.
At West Texas A&M, Sergio has stayed active in both campus life and public service. He served as a Student Senator in the spring of 2025, working to represent student voices and help improve the campus experience. He’s also involved in the university’s Pre-Law Club, where he connects with like-minded peers and explores paths in the legal field.
Sergio is passionate about using the law to drive positive change. After graduation, he plans to attend law school and pursue a career in immigration and criminal law. His motivation comes from a deep commitment to advocating for underserved communities and making sure everyone has access to fair representation.
This fall, he will be interning at the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia, working in the Sex Offense and Domestic Violence Section of the office. Sergio is excited about the hands-on experience he will gain while working with attorneys and hopes to learn more about the legal system. He is looking forward to shaping his future in his legal career and making a meaningful impact.
Ryan Griffing
Association for Diplomatic Studies and Training
Ryan Griffing is a senior pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science at Texas A&M University, and is expected to graduate in May of 2026. Ryan’s time in the United States Marine Corps helped shape his passion for political science, as it inspired him to look for ways to shape government action and policy in ways that would benefit the world on both a societal and individual level.
Ryan was inspired to attend Texas A&M University by his older brother, Trey, who graduated in 2017. Though he initially planned to go to law school after graduating, Ryan’s appreciation for political science has only grown stronger throughout his studies, and he now plans to pursue a career in public service after his time at Texas A&M. Ryan has also gained a passion for international relations, motivated partly by his service abroad while in the Marine Corps, and partly by a study-abroad program which allowed him to study in Tokyo, Japan, during the summer of 2024.
Ryan hopes to deepen his understanding of diplomacy while in our nation’s capital interning for the Association for Diplomatic Studies and Training, and to learn how to help build beneficial relationships between the United States and its allies abroad.
Talianna Jenkins
Texas A&M University
Office of Federal Relations
Tali is a Political Science major with an English minor at Prairie View A&M University. Originally from Kansas City, Missouri, she is currently interning with the Office of Federal Relations for Texas A&M in Washington, D.C. In this role, she supports daily office operations, assists with communications and constituent relations, and gains hands-on experience with how federal policy and advocacy work behind the scenes.
Her academic focus includes politics, social issues, and grassroots organizing, which have deepened her understanding of how policies affect different communities, especially those that are underrepresented. Tali has taken classes that explore topics like Black feminism, sociology of minorities, and African politics, which have helped shape her perspective on social justice and policy-making.
She chose to minor in English because she values strong communication skills and enjoys writing as a way to express ideas thoughtfully and clearly. Whether through academic research or creative projects, writing is an important outlet for her.
Outside of academics and her internship, Tali enjoys traveling, writing, and having conversations about culture, justice, and social change. She’s driven by curiosity and a commitment to learning as much as she can to prepare for a career in public service, where she hopes to make a positive impact.
De’Ionte Jones
Office of The House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology
De’Ionte Jones is an undergraduate student at Texas A&M University – Central Texas, where he is pursuing a degree in political science. Originally from Cleveland, Ohio, De’Ionte spent his childhood residing in various locations, including Texas, Washington State, Missouri, and Germany, due to his father’s enlistment in the United States Army. His upbringing and experiences significantly contributed to his worldview of governmental policies and its impact on social services.
Prior to attending Texas A&M University – Central Texas, De’Ionte attended William Woods University in Fulton, Missouri, where he held various board positions for organizations, including the Student Alumni Council, the Presidents’ Student Council, and the Intrafraternal Council. Currently, during his time as a student, De’Ionte has focused his interests on the policy fields of Criminal Justice, Legal Reform, Veterans’ Affairs, and Housing and Economic Development.
De’Ionte enlisted in the United States Army in 2019 and was stationed in Hawaii. During his service, De’Ionte managed payroll and individual debt management support for over 2,000 soldiers. De’Ionte’s military experience motivated him to pursue a career that combines legal advocacy with public policy work. Additionally, De’Ionte maintains a veteran support network and actively volunteers for community groups.
Following his studies at Texas A&M University – Central Texas, De’Ionte plans to attend law school, where he aims to establish a foundation for a career that combines public policy work with legal reform initiatives. This fall, he is interning in the Office of The House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology in Washington, D.C., where he hopes to gain hands-on experience in the policymaking process and further his understanding of how legislative efforts impact the development of policy.
Kaizer Mahaffee
Office of Senator Josh Hawley (R-MO)
United States Senate
Kaizer Mahaffee is a senior at West Texas A&M University, pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Political Science. A proud native of Amarillo, Texas, Kaizer has distinguished himself as a dedicated student leader and aspiring legal professional. He is actively involved in campus life through his participation in the Student Government Association and the Pre-Law Association, where he served as Sergeant-at-Arms in the Student Senate for the spring 2025 term. These roles have allowed him to engage directly with issues impacting the student body and further develop his leadership and parliamentary skills.
Scheduled to graduate in December 2025, Kaizer intends to pursue a Juris Doctor degree at a law school in Texas, with the long-term goal of practicing law and eventually running for elected office. His commitment to civic engagement is rooted in a lifelong passion for community involvement. From serving in his local Boy Scout troop to volunteering with his local church, Kaizer has always sought opportunities to give back and lead with integrity.
Kaizer’s interest in public policy and political advocacy was solidified during his time as a voter outreach intern with Senator Ted Cruz’s 2024 re-election campaign. This experience provided valuable insight into the political process and helped him cultivate strong communication and outreach skills. It also deepened his appreciation for representative government and the importance of engaging with constituents on the issues that matter most to them. This fall, Kaizer will be interning in the office of Senator Josh Hawley (R-MO) in Washington D.C. where he hopes to gain further experience in the realm of policy making and make an impact on policy at the national level.
Sarah McKelvy
United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia
Major Crimes Division
Sarah McKelvy is a Junior at Texas A&M University pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a minor in Legal Foundation. Born and raised in Austin, Texas, she is a volunteer at the Aggieland Humane Society, active member in the Texas A&M Pre-Law Society and a Head Director of Freshman Leaders on Campus (FLOC).
Additionally, Sarah has worked as an intern at Ely, Valentine & Reed LLC. and the Texas Commission of Environmental Quality where she gained invaluable critical thinking and interpersonal skills. Sarah’s time at A&M has been crucial in providing leadership and networking connections that have paved her way to exciting opportunities such as interning in our nation’s capital. Sarah’s commitment to public service stems from her drive to make a lasting impact on her community by always pursuing justice even in the face of adversity.
After graduation in May 2027, she aspires to further her education in law school. Sarah is eager to serve the community and leave a meaningful impact on the world. She hopes to support underprivileged communities by promoting equality. This fall, Sarah is interning in Washington, D.C. with the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia in the Major Crimes division where she plans to gain hands-on experience in the federal government.
Emmanuel Morales
Office of Congressman Vicente Gonzalez
U.S. Representative for Texas’s 34th Congressional District
Emmanuel Morales, a senior political science major with a minor in criminal justice at Texas A&M University-Kingsville, was born in Harlingen, Texas. During his time with TAMUK, Emmanuel landed an internship for the Student Support Services, a TRIO program, where he assisted first-generation and low-income students. Shortly after, he was promoted to a peer mentor position where he was able to tutor students in subjects like economics, constitutional law, and government. This position highlighted his passion for public service and mentorship.
Emmanuel also completed a semester long internship with the Kleber County Courthouse, where he learned firsthand about court procedure. Under the supervision of the Assistant District Attorney, he assisted in organizing plea agreements and supported case preparation. His legal exposure does not stop there; Emmanuel also took part in a study abroad program where he spent two weeks in Puerto Rico, attending the Pontifical Catholic University of Puerto Rico School of Law. During his time there, Emmanuel took classes comparing the legal systems of Puerto Rico to the United States, witnessed court procedure, and toured a juvenile detention facility for boys. These experiences reaffirmed his beliefs and passion for rehabilitation, due process, and legal processes.
Emmanuel is also involved in campus organizations like the Pre-Law Society and UNITY where he can build upon his interest in law and advocacy. He is excited to intern with the office of Congressman Vicente Gonzalez in Washington D.C. where he hopes to gain valuable experience to apply in the legal field.
Shakkthi Sadagopan
The Young Women’s Project
Shakkthipratha Sadagopan is a sophomore political science major at the Bush School of Government and Public Service with a minor in public policy analysis. Originally from the Bay Area, California, she is actively involved in multiple organizations both on and off campus, including the Young Democratic Socialists of America (YDSA), the Period Project, and the Brazos Valley Pride Community Center.
As a freshman, she served as both Community Chair and Campaigns Chair in YDSA where she organized fundraising events to raise awareness for issues affecting students on campus including the protection of specialized healthcare services such as gender-affirming care. She hopes to continue making an impact in her community by advocating for the rights of students at Texas A&M, as well as educating people about topics such as women’s healthcare, immigration, and LGBTQ+ rights.
Her love for community service stems from her experience of five years working with children in education and she hopes to build upon that in the future. Shakkthipratha’s interest in public policy has grown her passion for quantitative research in her role as a research assistant at the Bush School as a freshman. She completed her own research paper this past May on a comparative analysis of political violence against women across the states of India. She understands the significant role of research in public policy, viewing decision making through data points and cases has allowed her to understand the importance of looking at public policy objectively.
Shakkthipratha hopes to attend law school after graduation and aims to become a civil rights attorney. Her passion for community service and development has led her to continue wanting to create change in the lives of those around her. Shakkthipratha is eager to intern in Washington, D.C. in The Young Women’s Project and build upon her current passions and experience.
System University Contacts
The collaboration between the Texas A&M University Policy Internship Programs and the ten schools within the Texas A&M University System showcases a well-organized and synergistic approach to policy education and practical experience. Texas A&M University oversees the program, but each affiliated institution has appointed a liaison to provide targeted support and guidance at their own campus. Students can find their campus liaison from the list below, which facilitates personalized assistance and ensures effective engagement with the internship opportunities. This cooperative framework not only streamlines the process for participants but also enhances the program’s overall impact across the Texas A&M University System, fostering a richer educational experience for all involved.
Our Team
Stephanie Webb
Program Director
Public Policy Internship Program
Stephanie.webb@ag.tamu.edu
979-845-3712
Erin Fisk
Program Manager
Public Policy Internship Program
Erin.Fisk@ag.tamu.edu
979-845-3712
James B. Palacios
Program Manager
Public Policy Internship Program
James.Palacios@ag.tamu.edu
979-845-3712
Hollie Galluzzo
Program Coordinator
Public Policy Internship Program
hollie.galluzzo@ag.tamu.edu
979-845-3712
Chelsea DeMasters
Program Manager
Public Policy Internship Program
Chelsea.demasters@ag.tamu.edu
Mikayla Wrenn
Graduate Assistant
Public Policy Internship Program
Mikayla.Wrenn@ag.tamu.edu
979-845-3712
Sarah Beth Brittain
Graduate Assistant
Public Policy Internship Program
sarahbeth.brittain@ag.tamu.edu
979-845-3712
Reagan Crick
Student Assistant
Public Policy Internship Program
Reagan.Crick@ag.tamu.edu
979-845-3712
Madison Iversen
Graduate Assistant
Public Policy Internship Program
madison.iversen@ag.tamu.edu
Dr. Anneliese Reinemeyer
Instructional Associate Professor
Public Policy Scholars Program
areinemeyer@tamu.edu