When Estrella Mountain Community College (EMCC) faculty and staff hear the name Jackie Sandoval, they immediately think of the words, "student success," "politics," and "historical presidential election." After all, to the college community, Sandoval is a successful student who made us all feel like we were a part of the most historical presidential election this country has seen.
Sandoval is a part-time student at EMCC, majoring in political science. She's a familiar face on all parts of the campus, as she has served as a student ambassador, participated in numerous campus activities, and volunteered her time to register EMCC students to vote prior to the presidential election. Sandoval's passion in politics earned her an internship with the Obama campaign, then a staff position in Miami, and ultimately a ticket to Washington D.C. to witness the inauguration. Estrella Mountain's faculty, students and staff cheered her on as she got to participate in and experience the political process first hand, which solidified her career aspirations in political campaigning.
"Believe it or not, the highlight of my inaugural experience was meeting David Plouffe," (the campaign manager for the Obama campaign) she said. "During the campaign, Barak and David were like one 'entity;' he is the most brilliant campaign strategist ever. I hope to be like that someday."
Upon Sandoval's return, she immediately began a new internship with Congressman Pastor's office. She spends her time doing casework and "connecting the dots" for Pastor's constituents in Arizona's 4th Congressional District. This internship is just another stepping stone to Sandoval's future in politics.
During her internship with the Obama campaign, Sandoval enjoyed looking to the future and encouraging people to engage in their civic duty by voting. However, this internship allows her to have direct contact with people looking for an immediate solution. "During my time on the Obama campaign, I listened constituents' tribulations and provided them with a candidate that will perhaps solve their hardships. Now, through Congressman Pastor's office, I have the opportunity to create solutions that will have a direct and longer lasting impact throughout the community," she said.
Sandoval will graduate from EMCC in May 2010 and plans to continue her education in Washington D.C. to be near the political action. Her recent experiences, her drive, and her belief in this country are sure to benefit her in her own political future.