Nine University of Florida students are spending Fall 2025 in the nation’s capital through the Bob Graham Center’s Washington Internship Program, gaining hands-on experience with Florida’s congressional delegation, the White House, or UF’s Office of Federal Relations.
The Washington, D.C. internship is designed for students interested in public service and government affairs who have demonstrated a genuine commitment to civic activities. Since its creation in 2020, more than 100 UF students have participated in the program throughout the spring, summer, and fall semesters.
Typically, intern responsibilities include attending hearings, drafting reports and legislative updates, and supporting special projects, events, and essential front-line constituent relations.
Interns gain valuable hands-on experience in policy making and government affairs. With professional development opportunities and networking in the nation’s capital, their experience will shape future careers in public service.
Read more about the interns and their placements below.
Angel Perez
Angel Perez is a first-generation American and junior who has interned with the State Attorney’s Office and the Palm Beach County Board of County Commissioners. Raised in a blue-collar household, he brings a strong work ethic and deep commitment to public service. Back home, he mentors youth through the SWAG (Students Working to Achieve Greatness) program. At UF, he serves on the board of Gator Powerlifting and is studying Russian to strengthen his global and strategic perspective. After graduation, Angel plans to serve in the U.S. Air Force and pursue a career in intelligence and national security. He is driven by a mission to help ensure the opportunities he’s benefited from remain accessible to future generations.
He is interning for Rep. Brian Mast (R-FL-21).
Beata Oseibonsu
Beata Oseibonsu is a senior studying international studies with a regional focus in Africa, as well as a minor in African studies. Her leadership and campus involvements reflect these academic interests as she has served as president of the African Student Union, actively conducts research with the Alachua County African and African-American Historical Society, and serves as an undergraduate ambassador for the Center for African Studies. Committed to public service and global affairs, especially within the cultural sphere, she intends to pursue law school as a pathway to deepen her impact in global policy, diplomacy, and community engagement.
She is interning with Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-FL-20).
Emilio Fernandez
Emilio Fernandez is a senior pursuing a B.A. in business administration. He is currently interning at a family law firm in Miami, where he supports legal research, drafts case summaries, and helps ensure smooth case preparation and workflow. Emilio is passionate about the intersection of business, policy, and public service, and is excited to bring his ideas and perspective to Washington, D.C. through the internship program. With a background shaped by leadership, entrepreneurship, and a drive to make a difference, he looks forward to learning from public servants and contributing meaningfully during his time in the nation’s capital.
He is interning with Rep. Aaron Bean (R-FL-04).
Eva Galleazzi Bruno
Eva is a senior on the pre-law track, majoring in political science, pursuing a certificate in international relations and minoring in environmental justice and policy. She has previously interned for Florida Sen. Jason Pizzo, and has served as a paralegal for a law firm in South Florida. On campus, she is involved with Student Government as Director of Special Projects for the External Affairs Agency, and has completed an internship with the CLEO Institute through the Gulf Scholar Program. She is interested in the legal field, with a growing passion for the political world. Upon graduation she plans on attending law school.
She is interning with Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL-25).
Gavin Schwanke
Gavin Schwanke, is a first-generation college student, he is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in legal history with a minor in geography. With a deep appreciation for history and geographic insights, he is preparing to further his education in law school to develop skills in leadership. Gavin aspires to use his legal and academic expertise to serve his community through future political roles, focusing on political consulting and public service.
He is interning with Rep. Kat Cammack (R-FL-03)
Jacob Jahreis
Jacob Jahreis is a senior majoring in business administration and specializing in business geography, with a minor in real estate. He’s a published author with the Florida Pre-Law Review and serves as a Warrington Diplomat and regional growth lead at Rem & Co., a student-led consulting group supporting small businesses. Inspired by his family’s farm and business background, Jacob is passionate about helping small businesses and agricultural communities. After graduation, he plans to attend law school.
He is interning with the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs within the White House Office of Management and Budget.
Megan Jenkins
Megan Jenkins is a senior majoring in English and political science with minors in anthropology and education, along with a certificate in international relations. During her time at UF, she has interned with the Florida Museum of Natural History and PEAK Literacy. She currently serves as the president of the UF chapter of the League of Women Voters and has previously been a mentor for the First Generation Leadership Program. Her interests lie in women’s rights and education policy, which she hopes to explore further during her time in D.C.
She is interning with the UF Office of Federal Relations.
Nikolas Latorre
Nikolas Latorre is a junior double majoring in economics and political science. Born in the United States and raised in Colombia, he brings a multinational perspective to his academic and professional pursuits. With a deep interest in political affairs and their impact on communities, Nikolas is driven to understand how policy decisions shape society. He began his higher education at Santa Fe College, where he served as Student Body President and was a delegate for the college’s Model United Nations academic team. In Fall 2024, he transferred to UF to continue his studies. His professional experience includes interning with the Florida Senate during the Spring 2025 legislative session and working in finance at L’Oréal Groupe during the summer. Nikolas aspires to pursue a career in government, where he can contribute to meaningful, data-informed policymaking.
He is interning for Senator Ashley Moody (R-FL).
Stracy Olivier
Stracy Olivier is a junior studying political science with minors in innovation and African-American studies. As a Haitian-American and first-generation college student, she brings a unique perspective to her work in civic engagement and public service. Her academic and community experiences have fueled her commitment to expanding access to opportunity through legal and policy-driven solutions. Stracy plans to attend law school and pursue a career focused on equity, advocacy, and government reform.
She is interning for Rep. Lois Frankel (D-FL-22).