Erina is a freshman from New York who plans on majoring in Political Science and Urban Studies. She’s passionate about community organizing in hopes of pursuing a career in public service and law to advocate for marginalized communities like her hometown, the Bronx. Most of her interests lie in intertwining grassroots advocacy, policy and government, and journalism to make a change in local communities. She’s the Programming Chair of the United Minorities Council, Programming Intern at the nonprofit Asian American United, Cultural Chair of Penn Bangla, a part of Wharton Undergraduates in Public Policy, FGLI DAB, and The Signal Society. In her free time, she enjoys binging indie films, thrifting niche collectibles, and photographing the city.
She wanted to join the fellowship due to her love for civic discussion, meaningful dialogue, and social impact, especially related to community service and engagement. Back in high school, she was the Producer of The Round Table: A Next Generation Politics, a cross-partisan podcast focused on bringing high school students from across the country to discuss pertinent political issues with esteemed guests from relevant backgrounds. This podcast sparked her love for civics and how dialogue can bridge the many bridges prevalent in society, which gravitated her further to this fellowship, with its emphasis on integrating wellness and service through the seminars and funding capabilities this fellowship offers.