David Mendieta

“The opportunities granted to me at UChicago expanded my worldview and made me consider different perspectives I would never have thought of had I stayed back home. I come away understanding more about myself and the world around me.”

Public policy major David Mendieta’s favorite UChicago memories are from his time in the Chicago Academic Achievement Program (CAAP), a year-long program that provides early exposure to scholarly and social life at the University, primarily for first-generation and/or low-income students. 

“Meeting fifty other students who came from my same background as a first-generation, low-income student made me feel comfortable in my own skin. CAAP helped reaffirm that I belong here, and I wouldn't be where I am without its support,” said Mendieta.

Outside of the classroom, Mendieta danced in the Organization of Latin American Students' annual cultural show and was a founding member of the UChicago colony of Phi Iota Alpha, Fraternity Inc. He was also a field intern for the Bernie Sanders for President campaign based in Iowa, a legal intern for the Northern Illinois District of Federal Defenders and a policy intern for the Chicago Coalition for the Homeless.

Mendieta will work as a paralegal with Legal Aid Chicago next year and plans to attend law school in the future.