The Bob Graham Center, in cooperation with the University of Florida Office of Government and Community Relations, has selected nine UF students to intern in positions throughout Florida’s government during the Spring 2025 semester.
Each year, the Center’s Tallahassee Internship Program offers placements for UF students to gain firsthand experience working in Florida’s legislative offices and associated private firms. Since the program’s inception in 2009, over 200 students have completed Tallahassee internships.
Interns are required to live and work in Tallahassee during the full duration of the semester. Read more about this year’s Tallahassee internship recipients below.
Daniela Barrantes
Daniela Barrantes is a junior double majoring in political science and international studies, with a focus on Latin America and the Caribbean. She is also pursuing a minor in Public Service. During her time at UF, she has served as a Bob Graham Center Fellow, a Study Abroad Peer Advisor, and an assistant for the English Language Institute. Through her internships with two state legislators and a school board member, she has observed firsthand how state policies impact citizens. Beyond graduation, Daniela aims to pursue a master’s in international relations and build a career in international migration policy.
She is interning with Sen. Jason Pizzo (D-37).
Ashley Bess
Ashley Bess is a senior studying political science with a concentration in agricultural and natural resource law. A Florida native and advocate for the outdoors, Ashley views natural resource protection and agriculture as pivotal policy areas. She is dedicated to preserving both the environment and critical industries. After graduating, Ashley plans to further her understanding of these issues while working as a civil servant and attending law school.
She is interning with UF Office of Government and Community Relations.
Abigail Campbell
Abigail (Abbie) is a third-year student studying political science and psychology. She is passionate about serving her community well, this motivates her energetic involvement and leadership both on and off campus. Her interest in a career in public service drives her to pursue experiential learning opportunities that broaden her perspective on responsible and effective policymaking. She has previously interned for members of Congress in both district and D.C. offices, as well as the non-profits K9s for Warriors and The Florida House on Capitol Hill. Her goal is to one day run for office in her home state of Florida!
She is interning with Sen. Jennifer Bradley (R-6).
Nikolas Latorre
Nikolas is a junior majoring in economics. A multinational student born in the US and raised in Colombia. He is passionate about political affairs and how those decisions affect the constituents. With a non-traditional background, Nikolas started at Santa Fe College, transferring to the University of Florida during the Fall Semester of 2024. At Santa Fe, he was student body president, interim treasurer of Student Government, and Model United Nations delegate for Santa Fe’s academic team.
He is interning with Sen. Stan McClain (R-9).
Laney Mulhollen
Laney Mulhollen is a senior seeking a degree in natural resource conservation with minors in agricultural and natural resource law, agricultural and natural resource ethics and policy, and leadership. She has been involved with the CALS ambassadors, CALS Leadership Institute, Gamma Phi Beta sorority, Xi Sigma Pi International Forestry Honor Society, and UF Collegiate Farm Bureau. Laney has previously gained practical experience through studying agriculture abroad and interning with Congressman Greg Steube. Following her time at UF, she plans to pursue a career in public service focused on protecting Florida’s natural resources.
She is interning with Sen. Jason Brodeur (R-10).
Erin Nadel
Erin is a junior majoring in environmental science and minoring in philosophy. Growing up in Florida, its natural wonders inspired her to work to protect and advocate for them. She aspires to work in environmental law, protecting ecosystem services and promoting the responsible use of natural resources. She works as an Assistant Fundraising Director of First Generation Lawyers and has served as an assistant director to the PaCE Cabinet team of UF’s Executive Branch. Recently, she completed an environmental education internship at Grassy Waters Preserve, where she developed an educational program for third graders. After graduating, she plans to attend law school.
She is interning with Sen. Lori Berman (D-26).
Tiffany Steinke
Tiffany is a junior majoring in public relations, passionate about leveraging communication to create meaningful change. She is involved in Student Government and serves as the Lead of Future of Florida Summit Marketing & Communications at the Bob Graham Center, as well as Vice Chair of Community Outreach for Gator Innovators. Following her time at UF, she hopes to pursue a career in the public service sector, where she plans to advocate for and champion the rights of victims of abuse, fostering healing and justice.
She is interning with Rep. Dana Trabulsy (R-84).
Carter Stem
Carter Stem is a senior majoring in economics at the University of Florida. He is from Panama City, Florida, and the local community and government response to Hurricane Michael inspired him to seek an interest in public service and policy. He is working on contributing to the Florida Undergraduate Law Review Club and is currently preparing for law school. After graduation, he aims to pursue a career in law and public administration.
He is interning with Rep. Yvonne Hayes Hinson (D-21).
Shelby Stott
Shelby is a senior anthropology student pursuing a certificate in political communications. She is a first-generation college student, Peer Leader, and member of the UF Student Conduct & Conflict Resolution committee. Shelby’s experience as a student assistant with the Lastinger Center for Learning has made public education a policy priority for her. With a history of working for small businesses, she is excited to employ her perspective and grow her understanding of how Florida’s legislative process can help bolster local economies. She is interested in attending law school and pursuing a career in government affairs.
She is interning with The Southern Group.