PAAIA Announces Spring 2025 CHIP Fellow
Yazmene is a Pezeshkan Capitol Hill Internship Program Fellow interning with Congressman Mike Levin
PAAIA is excited to announce our Spring 2025 Pezeshkan Capitol Hill Internship Program (CHIP) fellow, Yazmene Assadian.
Yazmene is a recent graduate of Pennsylvania State University, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science with a minor in Dispute Management and Resolution. Originally from San Diego, she has been actively involved in community service both locally and on campus, participating in volunteer and philanthropic initiatives through student organizations.
Yazmene previously interned on Congressman Mike Levin’s campaign, supporting voter outreach and mobilization efforts. This spring, she will take the next step in her public service journey by interning in Representative Levin’s Washington, D.C. office, where she will gain firsthand experience in legislative operations.
As part of our Civic Leadership Program, CHIP provides Iranian American college students with the opportunity to intern with a member of Congress and see the legislative process in action firsthand. The experience is augmented by a stipend for living expenses and the opportunity to connect with Iranian American mentors in public service. Historically, many PAAIA CHIP Fellows have gone on to pursue careers in public service and continue to cite the Fellowship as a pivotal part of their professional journey. This spring, we are excited to welcome Yazmene Assadian into the CHIP network as she begins her internship with Congressman Michael Levin!
“I am excited for the CHIP Fellowship and the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a congressional office,” Yazmene shared. “As an Iranian-American, I have witnessed how policy decisions impact underrepresented communities, reinforcing my commitment to addressing these disparities. Through this fellowship, I hope to deepen my understanding of the legislative process, strengthen my research and advocacy skills, and contribute to meaningful initiatives. My goal is to pursue a career in law or public service, where I aspire to drive positive change through policy and legal development.”
