Nicole Chen is a student at The University of Texas at Austin studying Economics. She holds a deep passion for using her skills to make an impact through policy and law. She is interning with Texas Senator Kelly Hancock during the 89th Legislative Session, Nicole focuses on financial literacy policy, inspired by her belief in empowering individuals with the tools to achieve financial independence. Nicole’s policy interests center on financial literacy, economic development, and equitable access to education. She previously interned with famous criminal defense attorneys in Texas; Gary Cohen and Chris Gunter where she found an interest in litigation and trial work. After her internship, she plans to pursue a career in law, focusing on institutions where she can explore the intersection of economics, technology, sustainability within the law. Nicole seeks opportunities to engage in fellowships and programs that emphasize leadership, policy innovation, and serving underrepresented communities. She approaches her work with a sense of purpose and resilience, shaped by her own experiences advocating for herself and community. Nicole’s aspirations include pursuing a legal career, where she hopes to combine her understanding of economics and the law to address complex issues and contribute to meaningful change. Beyond her academic and professional commitments, Nicole is deeply connected to her faith and community. She is an active volunteer in her church, she values service as a cornerstone of her personal and professional life. In her free time, she enjoys volunteering for the Texas Law School Mock Trial Team, hiking Hill of Life in Austin, and baking banana bread. Nicole brings an intentional and thoughtful approach to everything she does, with a heart for learning and a drive to serve others.

Santiago Gotera is a Venezuelan immigrant and a junior at Texas State University, studying Political Science with a minor in Business Administration. Born and raised in Maracaibo, Venezuela, Santiago studied until the 8th grade before his family moved to the United States due to the country’s volatile political situation. This experience began to shape Santiago’s political awareness, gradually steering him toward conservatism. During his high school years, Santiago joined the Turning Point USA chapter at The Woodlands High School, where he served as the chapter’s secretary during his senior year. Influenced by prominent conservative figures like Donald Trump Jr. and Michael Knowles, Santiago decided to pursue a degree in Political Science. Inspired by the life of Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas, he also aspires to study law and become an attorney. In his freshman year, Santiago reconnected with his faith through the Catholic community on campus and the organization St. Paul’s Outreach, which ignited a renewed zeal for his Faith. This newfound passion drives him to engage with people on campus daily, sharing the good news of the Catholic faith. The Clement Scholar program gives Santiago invaluable, hands-on experience in Texas politics. He is committed to serving and leading by following the true Shepherd and supporting the people of the great state of Texas. After his experience in the program, Santiago plans to expand his connections and gain opportunities in his desired career field. He is currently preparing for the Law School Admission Test (LSAT) and focusing on his post-undergraduate career. However, he believes it is his duty to dedicate part of his life to advancing the Catholic faith by meeting people on campus and sharing the good news of the Church.

Jace Jones is a current sophomore at the University of Texas at Austin where he plans to graduate with a degree in Accounting and Business Honors. Jace first found interest in politics when he joined the Turning Point USA chapter at UT Austin. Currently, Jace serves as the treasurer of the Turning Point chapter. Upon graduation, Jace wants to attend law school, hopefully back at UT Austin, to become a practicing attorney. Jace could see himself running for office someday whether that be in the Texas or US government, but for right now he is satisfied with being a Texlege intern and a member of this TCCRI class.

Owen Lowe is an honors student in the Liberal Arts Honors program at the University of Texas at Austin, where he is majoring in Government. As the Managing Editor of The Texas Horn, Owen has written on a broad array of topics, including constitutional issues, foreign policy, and the changing landscape of campus activism. His commitment to conservative principles is reflected in his leadership roles as Chief of Operations for Turning Point USA at UT Austin and Chair of UT Austin’s Young Conservatives of Texas chapter. Owen’s political experience includes campaigning for Senator Ted Cruz, which reinforced his passion for grassroots organizing and policymaking. With aspirations to run for political office, he aims to shape public policy rooted in constitutional conservatism and Texas values. Outside of politics, Owen enjoys shooting trap and skeet, listening to 70s music, and fishing.

Julia Patterson will graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Political Science and a Master of Public Service and Administration from Texas A&M University in May of 2025. At Texas A&M, Julia was a member of the Board of Directors for MSC SCONA, attending the Naval Academy Foreign Affairs Conference and the Air Force Academy’s Academy Assembly. Julia is also a member of Phi Kappa Phi. In the 2021 Texas Legislative Session, she served as a registered lobbyist for KK125 Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation, becoming one of the youngest lobbyists in Texas. Previously, Julia interned in Congressman Pete Sessions’ office under his healthcare legislative staffer. In the 2023 Texas Legislative Session, Julia served as a Policy Analyst in the Texas Senate Health and Human Services Committee. This legislative session, Julia will return to this office, covering disability and long-term care issues for the committee. In the future, she plans to attend law school and continue her advocacy as a lobbyist for people with disabilities.

Tristen Shewmake is a Legislative Intern from the University of Texas who will be serving in Paul Bettencourt’s office. Tristen’s roots begin in the East Texas town of Bullard, where he was raised by parents who both served as law enforcement officers. During his childhood, his family instilled in him the importance of traditional values and a Christ-centered life. Tristen began his college career as a football player and public speaker at the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor before transferring to UT. Since his transfer, Tristen has become a Normandy Scholar and a university-recognized “honors scholar” while majoring in economics. As an intern, Tristen hopes to focus on border security and agriculture policy. In his reasoning for this focus, Tristen revealed that during his childhood his father was deployed multiple times to help alleviate the border crisis. Tristen claims that his childhood attachment to this issue helped show the effects of problematic border policies and catapulted him into his interest in politics. Additionally, Tristen is looking forward to seeing how the state can uplift family and small-size agricultural operations across the state. Looking forward, Tristen is keeping his career options open as he enters his last year of university in hopes of finding an opportunity in political media. Depending on the Lord’s will, he currently intends to join the military following his graduation in the spring.

Ethridge Zackary is a junior at The University of Texas at Austin and was born and raised in San Antonio Texas. He is now pursuing a major in Government and a minor in History within the esteemed Liberal Arts Humanities Honors Program, which offers him the flexibility to design a personalized academic path. His studies focus on areas not fully explored in traditional curricula, with a particular interest in policy development and environmental conservation. Ethridge’s current research delves into conservation laws concerning the protection of speckled trout in Texas. His thesis critically examines existing regulations, aiming to propose balanced solutions that address ecological preservation and economic interests along the Texas Gulf Coast. Ethridge’s academic pursuits are enriched by practical experience gained from working on farms and ranches across the state along with hunting and fishing along the Texas coast. He has mastered the sports of duck hunting and fishing along with essential ranching skills on a West Texas cattle ranch, including fence repair, pasture clearing, and cattle management. His work on an East Texas farm further deepened his understanding of land stewardship through timber management and navigating USDA regulations. Additionally, Ethridge gained valuable political experience as a Political Affairs Assistant for a lobbyist, where he collaborated with campaign directors to organize get-out-and-vote rallies, coordinate block walking efforts, oversee poll watching, and educate voters about candidates' policies during primary and runoff elections. With a passion for public policy and a commitment to advocacy, Ethridge combines his academic insights with practical knowledge to craft solutions that support sustainable development. Aspiring to a career as a lobbyist, he aims to influence policies that harmonize environmental conservation with economic growth, reflecting his dedication to the future of Texas’s natural and human resources.

Gabrielle Diedrick is a Political Science major at Texas State University with aspirations to influence policy and advocate for critical issues through a career in law and consulting. An advocate for issues such as border security, school choice, and Second Amendment rights, Gabrielle is deeply interested in policies that protect individual freedoms and American traditional values. In particular, she believes that securing the nation’s border is vital to national security, that school choice is a crucial factor in educational equity, and that defending the right to bear arms is an essential element of protecting personal liberty. With a strong academic foundation she has immersed herself in courses that cover Texas politics, Texas law, and political theory. To further her academic goals, Gabrielle is an active member of the Supporting Women in Political Science organization at Texas State University, where she engages in discussions about Political strategy, policy analysis, and career growth. Gabrielle is determined to pursue a future where she can influence legislation, advocate for key issues to protect Americans, and make a significant impact in the fields of law and political consulting. In her past-time she enjoys reading her bible, spending time with family, and traveling to different national parks.

Aiden Hunter is a Clements Legislative Scholar serving in State Senator Bob Hall’s office for the 89th Legislative Session. He hails from Bristol, Texas, a small ranching community in the DFW Metroplex. Aiden is a member of Fightin' Texas Aggie Class of 2028. At Texas A&M University he is in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences pursuing a degree in Agricultural Economics with a focus on public policy analysis. Friday nights in the Fall, you can find him hosting “Brazos Valley Nights” a conservative talk radio show on KANM in College Station. Previously, he interned in the Texas House of Representatives as well as serving as a Texas 4-H State Officer from 2023 to 2024. Once Aiden completes his time at Texas A&M, he intends to pursue a law degree and become an attorney. His life is guided by the belief that all people, especially those in rural areas, deserve a fierce advocate. Someone willing to fight for them when no one else will. Aiden's passion for Rural Texans has always called him to be a public servant. He believes communities like Bristol are imperative to maintain this country's spirit and promote conservative, constitutional, values. The American story starts in these communities and cultivates leaders who transform lives at every level of public policy.

Madison Koehn is a senior at Southwestern University in Georgetown, Texas. Growing up in the Dallas area, she committed to Southwestern to play women’s soccer and has since gained many experiences, including being a member of Zeta Tau Alpha and serving on the school's Honor Code Council. She plans on graduating in May of this year with a bachelor’s degree in Political Science. During the spring of her junior year, she moved to Washington, D.C., and interned on Capitol Hill with Congressman Dustin Johnson for the semester. Through this, she found her passion for serving communities and constituents through public policy actions. She is excited to continue to grow her knowledge and skills in this area and strives to make a difference in people’s lives through public service. She loves history and the intricacies of the law-making process. She dreams of one day either working in the Federal Government in a cabinet position or serving her country as a Diplomat.

Madelyn Miller is currently a Junior attending Baylor University where she is studying Political Science on a Pre-Law track with minors in Legal Reasoning & Analysis and Child & Family Studies. She plans to attend Baylor Law School after graduation with hopes of becoming an attorney who specializes in Family Law. In addition to a career in law, Madelyn is interested in pursuing politics on a local, state, or federal level. This internship will provide her with an opportunity to see what life is like on the other side of government and guide her forward as to how she may pursue it in the future. In her free time, she enjoys reading, hiking, and spending time with her siblings. She is also new to Austin and eager to explore all the city has to offer. She is looking forward to working alongside her peers as the future of the Texas Government works together to create the newest laws and protect the tried and true values of Texas!

Ryan Petersburg is a senior at Texas State University, majoring in finance, and serves as the editor-in-chief of an ISI publication, The Bobcat Tribune. He transferred to TXST in August 2022 from Stephen F. Austin University. Petersburg’s aspirations involve assisting legislative offices with policy or briefing policy to the private sector, serving as a knowledgeable bridge between the two. With a strong financial perspective, Ryan effectively connects public policy with private sector interests, fostering solutions that promote economic growth while ensuring sound governance. He conducts himself in a punctual, analytical, and highly engaged manner.

Caitlyn Stearns is a sophomore at the University of Texas at Austin, pursuing a degree in Government. Originally from Belton, Texas, Caitlyn is deeply engaged in her community, both on and off campus. She is an active member of her church, participates in several campus Christian organizations, and is involved in her sorority, Kappa Delta. Caitlyn is passionate about public service and education policy. After graduation, she hopes to work in the legislature and pursue a master’s degree in education policy, striving to make a meaningful impact in shaping the future of education.

Kirbie Faour is a recent graduate of Texas A&M University, where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Agribusiness in December of 2024. Originally from Brenham, Texas, she grew up with a deep appreciation for the agricultural industry and a close-knit hometown. During her time at Texas A&M, Kirbie was highly involved in campus life and leadership opportunities. She was a member of the Texas A&M Big Event and served on the Donor Relations team, where she contributed to the largest student-run service project in the nation. She was also an active participant in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, serving on the COALS Council and Aggie REPS, both working to enhance student engagement within the college. Additionally, for three years, Kirbie was a member of the Howdy Crew for the Aggieland Visitors Center, where she served as director welcoming prospective students and their families to campus. Alongside her campus involvement, she completed several internships both in Texas and out of state, gaining valuable hands-on experience and expanding her knowledge of agribusiness and related industries. After graduation, Kirbie relocated to Austin, where she now serves as a Legislative Assistant to Representative Tom Craddick in the Texas House of Representatives. Her office is located on the first floor of the capitol building in the west wing, room 1.W.9. Outside of her professional responsibilities, Kirbie enjoys reading, cooking, shopping, traveling, and spending time with friends and family. As she embraces her new role in Austin, she is excited for the positive impact that working in the state capitol will provide for her personally and professionally.

Katelynn is a sophomore at the University of Texas at Austin, where she is pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Government with a minor in Economics and a certificate in Core Texts and Ideas. Katelynn is deeply passionate about the intersection of governance, economics, and philosophy, which drives her academic and professional pursuits. Her commitment to serving her community is evident in her role as Chaplain of Texas Sigma Alpha Omega, a Christian sorority where she fosters spiritual growth and mentorship among her peers. Balancing faith and scholarship is central to her journey, shaping her leadership style and aspirations. Katelynn hopes to bring a fresh perspective to Texas politics, embracing the opportunity to contribute to the legislative process at the Texas Capitol. Working in the Legislature has been a long-standing ambition, and she is eager to gain firsthand experience during the upcoming session. Katelynn’s ultimate goal is to attend the University of Texas School of Law and specialize in constitutional law. She envisions a career advocating for the principles of justice and governance, either in her home region of the Pacific Northwest or in the vibrant legal community of Austin. Driven by a deep sense of purpose and a passion for public service, Katelynn is excited to apply her skills and knowledge to support the legislative process and make a meaningful impact in Texas policymaking.

Chloe is a 21 year old student attending Texas State University in San Marcos majoring in Political Science with a minor in International Studies. She hopes to possibly go back to school at UT Austin or Texas Tech to get a masters in Criminal Justice after graduating in the fall of 2025. With that degree she hopes to get a job in federal law enforcement.

Lindy Ochoa is a recent graduate from Angelo State University. She graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Double B.A. in Political Science and Philosophy and will be attending law school this August. Her passion lies in helping make quality education more accessible to underserved communities. During her time on the Hill, she also grew an interest in both foreign affairs and energy policy. All areas she intends to focus on before, during, and after her legal studies. Outside of school and career aspirations, Lindy enjoys trying new foods, being outdoors, and reading.

Hailing from the University of Texas at Tyler, Clayton Quinn joins the Clements Program with valuable experience in campaign politics. Having previously interned with Governor Abbott’s campaign, Clayton began running local campaigns during his junior year of high school. To date, Clayton has successfully managed campaigns for judge, county commissioner, city council and school board in East Texas. Undertaking his first role in public policy, Clayton joins the Lieutenant Governor’s office with a passion for education policy and an interest in the intertwined relationship of state lawmaking and local government. After completing his bachelor’s degree in business management, Clayton hopes to pursue a career in state government.

Meadow Votis is a freshman at the University of Texas at Austin, where she is studying Political Communication. Originally from Sugar Land, Texas, she is deeply committed to public service and the well-being of her community. Meadow currently works for House Representative David Cook, gaining valuable experience in legislative affairs. On campus, she is an active member of Alpha Delta Pi and competes on the UT Waterski team, balancing her academic and extracurricular pursuits. Her policy interests include justice and government reform, with a particular focus on border security and child protection. She is passionate about creating systems that protect vulnerable populations and ensure fair, efficient government practices. Meadow is also dedicated to ensuring the safety and well-being of children, advocating for stronger policies in this area. After graduation, Meadow plans to attend law school and continue her path toward a career in public service and policy, with the goal of making a lasting impact on the issues that matter most to her community.