Malina Tran, an intern for Delegate Alex Askew, has witnessed the historical legislative process, the curating of the first Virginia General Assembly’s HBCU Caucus. In addition, she emphasized the importance of the caucus in closing the funding gap between HBCUs and other universities.
The Historically Black Colleges and Universities Caucus is bipartisan and is made up of lawmakers who are HBCU alumni, represent districts where HBCUs are located or are members of higher education committees. Its launch was announced in January.
“Being there and NSU being the representative at the event was amazing. I had the opportunity to see all the HBCU presidents in Virginia and got to hear from legislators about the plans for the future of HBCUs,” Tran said.
A junior political science major from Columbus, Ohio, Tran is happy with her decision to attend Norfolk State. With strong support from her mother and family, she is able to be heavily involved on campus. Since arriving at NSU, Tran has served in the Student Government Association as the Chief Justice of the Sophomore Class and as Vice President of the Norfolk Young Democrats, both during her sophomore year.
As an intern at the General Assembly, Tran has witnessed advocacy hearings and attended community meetings, which have enabled her to build valuable connections and bonds with legislative officials in the House of Delegates.
She strongly recommends that students apply for an internship.
“ If anyone is looking for an internship, even if this is not your major, I would definitely apply. It's an amazing experience.”
Tran pointed out the special place that Norfolk State holds as part of the internship program.
“ On the Hill, we are the only HBCU on this internship, so we're really setting the standard, and we're showing people why it's important to have us in these spaces.
As an intern for Askew, she has been featured in his newsletter, which highlighted her hands-on experience in working with the Ohio House of Representatives at the state level.
Tran, who expects to graduate in spring 2027, plans to continue her education by attending law school. Leaving nothing to chance, she is currently working on the LSAT with the goal of becoming a Civil Rights Attorney.