Two TAMIU Students Chosen for the Texas A&M University System Public Policy Scholars Program

Two Texas A&M International University (TAMIU) students have been selected for the Texas A&M University System Public Policy Scholars Program happening this spring 2027. This one-of-a-kind experiential learning opportunity lets students participate in off-campus internships at Washington, D.C., offices while earning course credit.

The selected students were Andrea Chapa Aguilar, a junior political science major, and Luis Maldonado Reyes, a sophomore criminal justice major, both of whom will participate in the program this spring.

Aguilar is excited to learn more about public policy and how governmental decisions affect communities.

“I look forward to engaging with new ideas, collaborating with peers who share similar interests, and developing the critical thinking and leadership skills needed to address real-world issues. Being accepted into this program is an exciting step toward expanding my knowledge and preparing for a career dedicated to public service,” said Aguilar.

Reyes said he was excited to be chosen and to travel to D.C. this spring.

“What excites me most about this program is the opportunity to learn how our government works firsthand and connect with our nation’s leaders and policy professionals. Being able to experience this right in the heart of the nation's capital is an incredible opportunity,” said Reyes.

The opportunity is made possible through the Texas A&M University System Office of Academic Affairs, in partnership between the staff of the Public Policy Internship Program (PPIP) 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.

The PPIP strives to provide out-of-classroom opportunities that help students build on and enhance previous coursework. Integrating an off-campus, work-learning experience with related curriculum choices reinforces learning on campus, PPIP is an academic, service-designated course to help students obtain policy-related internships.

Students are expected to work full-time at their internship placement. During their internship, they learn new skills, gain insight into their professional future, and meet future co-workers and professional contacts.

For Aguilar, the opportunity also aligns with her long-term goal of pursuing a career in law.

“Understanding public policy is essential because laws and policies work together to shape society and address important issues. Through this program, I hope to strengthen my understanding of the policymaking process, develop research and analysis skills, and gain perspectives that will help me become a more effective advocate in the legal field. The experience will provide a strong foundation for my future legal studies and support my commitment to making a positive impact in my community through law and public service,” said Aguilar.

Reyes, who is pursuing a concentration in Homeland Security, said this opportunity will help prepare him for his future career.

“As someone aiming for a career in federal law enforcement as an FBI Special Agent, there is no better place to be than Washington, D.C. This opportunity bridges everything I’ve been studying in Homeland Security and Political Science with real-world impact. I’m beyond excited to build connections, learn from the best in the field, and use this experience as a launchpad for my career,” said Reyes.

The opportunity to take part in these nationally recognized internship opportunities will afford students the chance to take what they’ve learned in the classroom and apply it in real-world settings, emphasized Cihtlalli Perez, QEP-LEARN director.

“Through this experiential learning initiative, our students are building the professional skills needed for continued career growth while expanding their professional networks. Through experiential learning, a hallmark of the University’s quality enhancement plan, we’re making sure our students can succeed beyond graduation and enter career fields,” said Perez.

For more information on the University’s QEP and on future public policy scholars opportunities, contact Cihtlalli G. Perez, QEP-LEARN director, at CihtlalliG.Perez@tamiu.edu, call 956.326.2714 or visit go.tamiu.edu/qep.

A member of the Texas A&M University System, TAMIU provides a world-class educational experience to students from South Texas, northern Mexico and beyond.

For more on the University’s story, visit tamiu.edu or follow its social media channels: Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube and X.