A rising UH Mānoa senior majoring in Political Science and American Studies represented Hawaiʻi at a recent national leadership and policy program. Lauren Masquida, a graduate of Kealakehe High School in Kailua-Kona, was the state’s delegate to the 2025 College Student Congress, a two-week program recently held in Lexington, Kentucky, and Washington, D.C.
“I recommend the Henry Clay Center Student Congress with all my heart,” said Masquida, who has won New Warrior and Rotary scholarships, regularly makes the College of Social Sciences’ Dean’s List, and is a member of the national political science honor society. “Living in Hawaiʻi, we have limited opportunities to connect with peers from every state. This program breaks you out of your bubble and immerses you in a community of driven, curious individuals.”
The College Student Congress is a fully funded, two-week summer program that takes participants on an immersive journey through public policy. The first week is spent at the University of Kentucky in Lexington, where participants engage in policy research, debates and bipartisan collaboration. The second week brings them to Washington, D.C., through American University, where they meet with lawmakers, visit government institutions and gain first-hand exposure to the policymaking process.
The delegates also worked in teams to develop policy proposals on domestic and global issues such as healthcare, isolationism and environmental challenges.
“Visiting Washington, D.C., was a dream come true,” said Masquida, who is scheduled to graduate in 2026 and hopes to attend law school. “Ever since middle school, I’ve wanted to see the national monuments and U.S. Capitol. The moment I stood before them, I was overcome with emotion. I will always be grateful for this transformative experience.”
