PAAIA Welcomes Fall 2025 CHIP Fellows: Bahar Babagoli and Rana Agahi
Washington, D.C. — The Public Affairs Alliance of Iranian Americans (PAAIA) is proud to announce its Fall 2025 Pezeshkan Capitol Hill Internship Program (CHIP) Fellows, Bahar Babagoli and Rana Agahi. The CHIP Fellowship provides Iranian American students and recent graduates with the opportunity to gain first-hand experience in the legislative process, strengthen their understanding of public policy, and explore careers in public service on Capitol Hill.
Bahar Babagoli
Bahar Babagoli graduated from Chapman University with a degree in Psychology and a minor in Political Science. While her academic interests initially centered on clinical psychology, her focus shifted toward public policy and public service after interning in former Congresswoman Katie Porter’s district office as a CHIP Fellow.
Following her graduation in May, Bahar moved to Washington, D.C. to continue pursuing her passion for legislative advocacy. She currently serves as a CHIP Fellow in Congresswoman Yassamin Ansari’s Capitol Hill office, where she supports the Congresswoman’s legislative and constituent engagement efforts.
Bahar has been actively involved with PAAIA for several years, participating in the Civic Leadership Summit for three consecutive summers. She also gained campaign experience through her work with the California Democratic Party, where she contributed to the congressional campaigns of Derek Tran and Dave Min. Bahar hopes to continue building her experience in Washington by advancing her interests in healthcare and immigration policy through her work on the Hill.
Rana Agahi
Rana Agahi is a second-year student at The George Washington University’s Elliott School of International Affairs, pursuing a double major in International Affairs and Middle East Studies with a concentration in Conflict Resolution. Originally from Orange County, California, Rana is passionate about civic engagement and community-driven policy.
She has worked on local government initiatives in Orange County focused on climate resilience, environmental justice, and public policy. This past summer, she gained valuable legal experience while working at a law office, where she developed a deeper understanding of the legal process and the importance of advocacy through law.
Rana is currently serving as a Spring 2025 Legislative Intern in the office of Congressman Mike Levin (CA-49). Following graduation, she plans to attend law school and continue advocating for equity and representation through policy and law.
Empowering the Next Generation of Civic Leaders
Pezeshkan Capitol Hill Internship Program, PAAIA continues its mission to cultivate the next generation of Iranian American public servants by providing meaningful pathways into public service and policymaking.
PAAIA congratulates Bahar and Rana on their selection as Fall 2025 CHIP Fellows and looks forward to supporting their continued growth and contributions to the Iranian American community and to civic life in the United States.
