Meet the Voter Outreach and Engagement Team!
Namrata Venkatesan
Year: Second
Major/Minor: Cognitive Science major & Education Studies minor
Why are you passionate about civic and voter engagement?
As a STEM student, I'm determined to further integrate the STEM community into UCLA's advocacy efforts, including voter registration and mobilization. Through my work, I hope to draw meaningful connections between STEM and policy, motivating our South Campus community to have greater enthusiasm about voting!
What are some of your extracurriculars?
Since my first year, I've served as a BruinsVote Ambassador, and am also the Event Coordinator for the Premed Undergraduate Mentorship Program (PUMP). I also conduct research at the Geffen School of Medicine, where I study liver cancer!
Dylan Choppin
Year: Third
Major/Minor: Political Science major & Entrepreneurship minor
Why are you passionate about civic and voter engagement?
I have always believed that voting is one of the most fundamental things you can do to make a difference in your community. If you want change in our system, you must act and vote.
What are some of your extracurriculars?
I am currently the president of the Delta Sigma Phi Fraternity on campus, whose main goal is to bring Greek Life to as much of the UCLA community as possible and prevent sexual assault in all forms. I am also involved in the Student Alumni Association and have helped plan foundational UCLA events such as Spring Sing.
Kiana Bagheban
Year: Third
Major: Political Science
Why are you passionate about civic and voter engagement?
After learning the ins and outs of our political system for the past 2 years at school, I see how important voting and other forms of civic engagement are in creating real change. I want to continue to help others activate their political voice and contribute to the political system and environment that they want to see.
What are some of your extracurriculars?
I work for UCLA Recreation in the Competitive Sports Department as a Referee and General Manager. I also intern for JusticeCorps and help educate litigants so that they are able to better represent themselves legally.
Caroline Sanchez
Year: Third
Majors: Political Science & History
Why are you passionate about civic and voter engagement?
I come from an under-represented community that lacks voter education and mobilization. As a student at UCLA, I feel it is my responsibility to educate myself and others about their right to vote.
What are some of your extracurriculars?
I am a member of UCLA Radio's Digital Press Department as well as the Media Director for NMDP (formally known as Be the Match).
Ella Fox
Year: First
Major: Political Science
Why are you passionate about civic and voter engagement?
My passion for civic and voter engagement is driven by the perspectives of others. I find great fulfillment in discussing the important issues that impact their lives and the lives of their families. I strive to empower individuals to take action through voter registration, education, and advocacy.
What are some of your extracurriculars?
I'm just beginning to get involved in campus life as a first-year but starting the year as a True Bruin Ambassador for move-in and applying to/joining clubs both concerning my major and having to do with my personal interests are involvements I'm excited about!
Aiden Moseley
Year: Fourth
Major: World Arts and Cultures
Why are you passionate about civic and voter engagement?
Growing up in Sacramento, I quickly realized the importance of civic and voter engagement through the world of politics that surrounded me. I got involved in advocacy, community service, and political science classes, which all motivated me to pursue a career in which I can help others. I joined BruinsVote because it gives me the unique opportunity to elevate the voices of students, an often underrepresented community in general elections.
What are some of your extracurriculars?
Currently, I am involved in the UCLA Prison Education Program, which previously allowed me to learn alongside the incarcerated women of Victorville FCI and presently develops my skills as a music supervisor for our class play. I am also a new member of CollegeCorps, which works in partnership with the Governor’s office to encourage participation in community service among college students.
