FA-PAC Internship Program

Jim Nguyen is a Political Science and Asian American Studies professor at De Anza College and a long-time faculty advisor and mentor for the FA-PAC Legislative Internship and the Public Policy School. A committed educator and community advocate, Jim has helped train and support dozens of students as they pursue careers in public service, government, law, and nonprofit leadership. His work centers on civic engagement, equity, and expanding access to policymaking for disproportionately impacted students. Jim also serves as an officer with the Faculty Association and sits on the Board of Governors for the Faculty Association of California Community Colleges (FACCC), where he chairs the BIPOC Committee and advocates for statewide policy and equity initiatives. A community college graduate who transferred to UC Berkeley, and a graduate of Santa Clara University School of Law, he brings over a decade of teaching experience and a deep commitment to developing the next generation of diverse civic leaders.

I’m a part-time instructor at De Anza College, where I teach anthropology and gender studies, and serve with the Faculty Association as an Assistant Negotiator. In my dreams, which are a lot like my real life, I am a dedicated teacher, I live in the woods, I write weird stories and poems, and I contribute to my community. But in my dreams, being a dedicated teacher is enough to have stable, affordable housing, healthcare, and a way forward when I’m eventually disabled from working; in my dreams, I am not grinding at a discount for inferior or non-existent benefits, and not under-serving my students by piling on multiple gigs in far-flung districts. In my dreams, I can help my students achieve their goals and find ways to flourish; and in my dreams, I have access to the same stability and opportunities to flourish that the California Community College system implicitly promises our students. 

I teach Political Science at De Anza. I’m active in our union, the Faculty Association (FA). I’m currently the Executive Secretary and Chair of the Political Action Committee (FA-PAC). In 2012 I co-created the FA-PAC Internship Program and have been a faculty mentor ever since. The FA-PAC Internship Program is a great opportunity for students and faculty to work together for the advancement of our collective interests. It is an honor to be a part of this wonderful collaboration!

Gillian Grubb is a 2nd year student at De Anza who is majoring in Political Science: I started working on the Patrick Ahrens campaign this summer and was able to continue that work this fall with FA-PAC. I’m so excited to see what else I can accomplish through this internship and gain more hands on political experience that would allow me to make change both in the Bay Area and the De Anza community.

Andrea is a second-year student at De Anza as a Law, Public Policy, and Society major: My interest in public policy is shaped by personal experiences and a desire to make a meaningful impact. I am an aspiring attorney with a strong commitment to civic engagement, leadership, and advocacy. Through my work with the Public Policy School, I continue to develop the skills and knowledge needed to support nonprofits and initiatives that serve underserved communities. I am excited to learn more and collaborate with inspiring peers who share this mission. Outside of academics, I enjoy reading, music, and spending time in nature.

Hi! I’m Dali (she/her), a second-year Political Science major at De Anza College. My passion for political science and policy work grew from my experience working with the San José City Council in District 5, where I’ve been involved since 2021. Through this work, I saw how policy directly affects my East San Jose community and it inspired me to pursue this field more deeply. I’m a strong advocate for social justice and immigrant rights, and in my own time, I collaborate with local nonprofits that support immigrant communities. On campus, I’m involved with HEFAS, in addition to being part of the Public Policy School program. I also serve as the Youth Commissioner for San José District 5. Outside of school and advocacy, I love exploring new food spots and going to concerts!

Parker Graves is a Political Science major representing Foothill on the PAC. Began working with the PAC in the spring ‘25 quarter as a volunteer. Along with other students, spoke in front of Cupertino city council about the need for student housing, helping secure the FHDA district’s acquisition of the McClellan Terrace apartment complex for student and faculty use. As an intern, I hope to continue advocating for the needs of my peers and be an agent of change in my community. Outside of my work, I enjoy going to the gym, reading and going to shows.

Hey! I’m Kaiyan (he/they), a second-year student at De Anza majoring in Social Justice Studies. At the start of this year I felt the pull to get more involved in activism and advocacy; I could no longer sit on the sidelines while seeing the constant injustices that people are facing. That pull led me to the Social Justice Studies major and eventually to FA-PAC. Since becoming an intern in the fall, I’ve been given the opportunity to become more involved in my community, learn more about politics and advocacy, and play my part in making the world even just a slightly better place. Outside of De Anza, I love to play with my dog Jasper, play the drums, and lately I’ve been getting back into reading.

Gabe is a second year student at De Anza majoring in political science. Prior to college, he assembled a decent resume in the computer science field, as well as becoming an Eagle Scout. Upon entering college at De Anza, he switched over to political science and has been following that path ever since. His interest in political science stems from his love for US history and the values he learned from Scouting, first getting involved in advocacy by campaigning for Patrick Ahrens in 2024. Through his work with the program, he aims to improve his networking, canvassing, and advocacy skills, as well as building a network of people with progressive aspirations. Outside of academics, he enjoys hiking, gaming, and listening to music.

Zainab Mohseni is a second year student at De Anza, who is majoring in economics. I joined FA-PAC in order to become more involved and aware about local politics, and to gain experience in civic engagement, in order to have a positive impact on my community! In my free time, I enjoy reading, watching movies, and going on hikes!

Morgan Myo is a second-year Political Science student from Myanmar who is passionate about community involvement and creating meaningful change. She joined FA-PAC to build her advocacy skills, connect with others committed to community-driven work, and gain experience in policy. In her free time, she likes cooking, baking, and hiking.

Martina (she/her) is a second-year student at De Anza College, majoring in Social Justice Studies. Originally from Hong Kong, Martina moved to the U.S. in 2024 and has since navigated different challenges, including adjusting to a new environment, finding housing, learning to drive, living independently, and building a strong support network from scratch. Her experiences have then shaped a deep passion for advocacy, and she hopes to pursue a career in law in the future, using empathy, creativity, and critical thinking to foster positive social change across diverse communities, where everyone can thrive. Outside of academics, Martina enjoys singing, playing the cello, and piano. She also finds peace in swimming, and loves exploring new languages and cultures.

Salvador is a third-year student at De Anza with a major in Political Science. His interest in political science stems from his personal background and the community where he grew up. He first got involved in social justice and activism in his high school, not only volunteering at his local City Hall in Milpitas, but at the county level in Santa Clara as well. Through his work with FA-PAC, he wants to expand his skills in canvassing and Political advocacy, while also building a network of people with similar interests and values to his. One day, he wants to fulfill his desire for social justice by running for public office.