Internship & Volunteer Program

Prisha Saraf – Cancer Screening Awareness: Identifying Low-Screening Communities and Raising Awareness

Cancer is one of the leading causes of death in the United States and the leading cause of premature mortality in Alameda County. This project identifies communities in District 1 with low cancer screening rates and explores barriers contributing to these gaps. Lower-income families and communities of color are often diagnosed at later stages, when treatment can be less effective and survival rates decline. Earlier screenings can help detect cancer sooner, improving treatment outcomes and survival. This report identifies areas with the lowest screening participation and examines why these disparities exist. Click here to read the full report.

Lemeng Kong – Sustainable Business Practices in Alameda County. Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SME’s): The Gap Between Goal and Action

In California 95% of Small and Medium Sized Enterprises (SME’s) recognize the importance of sustainability, but less than 10% participate in sustainable business practices. This research project investigates the cause of this disconnect and how businesses in District 1 can be better supported with resources, supplies, and guidance to reach sustainability goals. You can read the full report here, along with a sustainable resource guide.

Sophia Doan – Teaching Responsible AI to the Next Generation

As AI becomes an increasingly common part of daily life, it is important to teach the next generation how to use it responsibly. Elementary school students are already encountering tools like ChatGPT and Gemini through homework help, search engines, and voice assistants, often without a framework for evaluating their responses. This project adapts technical AI concepts into age-appropriate lessons that help students understand why an AI response can sound convincing while still being incorrect, irrelevant, or incomplete. This program encourages students to question and critically evaluate AI output rather than accepting it at face value. To learn more, read the full report and explore the proposed parent, student, facilitator and presentation materials.

Kyle Zhao – Changing Vehicular Transportation to Alleviate School Zone Congestion in Fremont

School drop-off zones in Fremont experience significant traffic congestion during peak hours, with AC Transit’s school transportation services consistently operating at or near capacity. This study examines the factors contributing to students’ reliance on personal vehicles and proposes a framework to help reduce neighborhood congestion around schools. Recommendations include new transit infrastructure, improved access to transportation information, a “Transit Buddy” mobile system, and an FUSD carpool community to help address transportation needs. You can view the full recommendations to learn more in the full report here.

Navika Dasani – Period Poverty in District 1 – Analyzing Solutions

Menstruation is a natural and healthy bodily function, yet many menstruators face menstrual inequity and period poverty. Period poverty occurs when people lack access to menstrual hygiene products, education, or safe sanitation facilities needed to manage their periods with dignity. This project examines potential solutions to period poverty and explores the feasibility of establishing Period Pantries across District 1. To learn more click here to read the full report.

Asees Sethi – Leading a Youth Business Roundtable Discussion

Youth-led organizations provide young people with opportunities to address community needs while developing leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills. While these organizations can address important needs through health education, scientific research, technology literacy, civic engagement and access to resources, many youth organizations operate with limited funding, small networks and little access to formal support. This roundtable offered an opportunity  for youth-leaders to advocate for their needs, and identified several opportunities for Alameda County to better support youth-led organizations. You can read the takeaways in the full report here.

Advika Anand – Healthcare Avoidance Among Immigrant Families 

This report examines why eligible immigrant families in Alameda County, District 1 avoid enrolling in healthcare services provided by the government, despite qualifying for coverage. National survey data, historical policy analysis and interviews with local health organizations all help form recommendations for how District 1 can address this issue through funding of community-based outreach partnerships and expanding translation services to underserved language groups. To read more about this topic, click here to view the full report.

Anjana Nair – Measuring Local Climate Action in District 1

This research paper examines how cities across District 1—including Pleasanton, Dublin, Livermore, and Fremont—are responding to climate change. The report compares each city’s climate efforts and identifies priority recommendations to strengthen local action, with a focus on expanding electric vehicle infrastructure, addressing greenhouse gas reduction gaps, and improving implementation of climate action plans. Read the full report and website here to learn about the findings and recommendations for advancing climate resilience in District 1.

Anushka Ramesh – Increasing Access to Local Government Information

City council meetings shape local policies, budgets, and community decisions, yet working families and youth are often underrepresented simply because they may not know how to attend or participate. This project explores how local government can become more accessible and inclusive while helping residents better understand resources and funding within their local government communities. A centralized website provides links to key District 1 government resources. Access the website and read the full report here.

Arnav Gupta – Academic Pressure in D1 Schools & Peer-Led Mental Health Support

Alameda County’s District 1 is home to some of the fastest-growing and most academically competitive school districts in California. As a result, students often view their grades or academic performance as a reflection of self-worth and future prospects. This report examines how academic pressure affects the mental health of District 1 high school students, using a survey to analyze student experiences and identify concerns. The report finds that peer-led support is an actionable and important approach to addressing and strengthening student well-being. Click here to read the full report and to explore the collected data.

Shirley Liang – Alameda County Waste – An Examination of Livermore Residents’ Interactions With & Perspectives on Waste

This research project examined how Livermore residents understand and engage with local waste-sorting practices. Through existing research and a resident survey, it found that while residents generally value recycling and environmental protection, many lack confidence in sorting waste correctly. The research identifies confusion as a key barrier and recommends increasing awareness of existing resources, particularly Livermore’s waste-sorting guide, to make proper disposal easier and more accessible. To learn more about waste disposal and recommended solutions for improving waste sorting, click here to read the full report.

Avika Vyawahare – Researching Barriers Blocking Students from Accessing Mental Health Resources

This community impact project examines the barriers that prevent students from accessing mental health resources. Across District 1, many students face challenges related to stress, anxiety, and burnout, despite a wide range of support services available. This project identifies key barriers to accessing these resources and explores strategies to improve mental health awareness and accessibility among youth, including reducing stigma surrounding mental health and strengthening parental education. You can view the full report and website here.

Vyan Kumar – Evaluating Local Control in Districts 1-3 (LCFF)

This research project examined how California’s Local Control Funding Formula (LCFF) relates to student outcomes across Alameda County Supervisorial Districts 1-3. Using 2023-2025 California School Dashboard data from 12 school districts, the project compared academic performance, socioeconomic disadvantage, English Learner progress, attendance, and college and career readiness. The findings highlight significant differences across districts and suggest that while LCFF directs additional resources toward higher-need students, funding alone does not guarantee improved outcomes. The research emphasizes the importance of effective local implementation, English Learner and Math support, attendance interventions, and community engagement in determining how LCFF resources translate into student success.
Click to read more about the full report here.

Matthew Parr – Navigating Modern AI: Risks & Rewards

Building on his previous semester’s project, Matthew’s updated presentation continues to address the growing challenges of navigating artificial intelligence and misinformation. As AI-generated content becomes increasingly difficult to distinguish from real media, understanding how AI works and recognizing its potential for both positive and malicious uses is more important than ever. The updated presentation provides more detailed information to help seniors better navigate the evolving AI landscape, while a new two-sided flyer offers a practical resource for understanding and safely using modern AI. Read the full report here or watch the recorded presentation,

Ayushi Singh – Bridging the Digital Divide for Older Adults

This research project examined technological barriers facing older adults in Alameda County, with a focus on Fremont. Through countywide data, demographic research, and an interview with staff at a Fremont senior living community, the project found that digital exclusion is driven not only by limited access to devices and reliable internet, but also by gaps in digital skills, language access, and available support. The research highlights practical opportunities for the County to expand digital navigator programs, provide accessible technology assistance in senior communities and public spaces, and maintain in-person service options so that the shift to digital services expands access rather than creating new barriers. View the full report here.

Carolyn Hom – The Gap Between Students & Opportunities

This joint project by Carolyn Hom and Saharsh Maram focuses on increasing access to opportunities and learning experiences for high school students. In today’s rapidly evolving, technology-driven world, employers increasingly value technical skills, real-world experience, and critical thinking. The report examines the benefits of internships and extracurricular mentoring, the barriers that can make these opportunities difficult to access, and recommendations for expanding access to students across the community. (Continues below).

Saharsh Maram – The Gap Between Students & Opportunities

(Continued). As part of their project, Carolyn Hom and Saharsh Maram created an Opportunity Hub to help students find internships, mentorship programs, and other learning experiences. The hub brings together useful resources and opportunities in one place, helping students navigate barriers and connect with experiences that can support their academic, professional, and personal growth. You can view the full report here and explore the Opportunity Hub to find opportunities for students.

Riya Ramadass – What Gaps Exist in Shelter & Transitional Housing Programs in District 1?

This research project examined the gap between Alameda County’s shelter and transitional housing services and the long-term needs of unhoused residents by identifying three major challenges to long-term stability: the shortage of affordable housing, limited access to ongoing case management, and coordination gaps between agencies. While shelters and transitional programs provide essential immediate support, many residents continue to face barriers related to employment, healthcare, transportation, benefits, and securing permanent housing after leaving temporary programs. The research highlights opportunities for Alameda County to strengthen solutions to these issues. Read the full report here.

Asees Sethi – Revenue-Based Business Licenses Initiative & Breaking Cycles of Economic Inequality

This research project examines how local business licensing policies can contribute to economic inequality by creating disproportionate financial burdens for small businesses. Using Dublin, CA as a case study, the analysis finds that fixed licensing fees may limit entrepreneurial growth and economic mobility, particularly for lower-revenue businesses. The paper proposes a revenue-based licensing model that aligns fees with business income to increase equity in the licensing system. This approach aims to reduce barriers to entrepreneurship, promote economic fairness, and support a more diverse local economy while maintaining stable municipal revenue. You can view the full report here, along with a draft of the proposed measure.

Matthew Parr – Navigating Modern AI: Risks & Rewards

Have you ever had a senior in your life show you a video believing it to be real, only for you to realize that the content they are presenting to you is AI-generated? This is becoming an increasingly common experience as we navigate the new landscape of artificial intelligence. To help bridge this generational knowledge gap and address risks of misinformation, a video presentation was created to educate senior citizens about AI and how it can be used both positively and maliciously. To learn more, you can read the full report here or watch the recorded presentation,

Anushka Ramesh – Housing Affordability and Displacement in District 1

Housing affordability is one of the most pressing challenges facing District 1 with many cities facing rising housing costs, displacement, and a widening gap between wages and home prices. While local housing policies and programs such as Measure W and the 6th Cycle Housing Element have helped support new housing construction and strengthened tenant protections, the supply of affordable housing has not kept pace with demand, with many newly built homes remaining out of reach for lower-income residents, contributing to displacement and making it increasingly difficult for long-time community members to remain in their neighborhoods. A key underlying issue is housing production and zoning barriers restricting housing development.
To learn about potential solutions read the full report.

Prisha Saraf – Analyzing Pleasanton Chamber of Commerce Memberships

The Pleasanton Chamber of Commerce has served as a pillar of the local economy since 1997. While it is a well-established and respected organization in the community, many small and independently owned businesses remain unaware of the benefits available through Chamber membership. Without connection to local support networks, businesses may miss valuable opportunities for growth, visibility, and long-term success. Increasing Chamber membership can help local businesses gain access to networking events, business referrals, publications, and greater overall name recognition. Learn more in the full report.

Vyan Kumar – Evaluating Local Control Funding (LCFF) in District 1

This research paper examines the impact of California’s Local Control Funding Formula (LCFF) on public school outcomes across District 1. It analyzes student performance trends and explores how funding levels, demographics, and district-level decision-making influence educational outcomes. The project highlights that student success cannot be attributed to funding policy alone, but rather to how effectively districts implement programs, address the needs of diverse student populations, and allocate resources under the LCFF framework. The research provides valuable insights and key takeaways for future representatives, community members, and educators seeking to better understand school funding and student achievement in District 1. You can read the full report here.

Anika Sundar – Expanding Telehealth Access Through Community Based Support

Telehealth has rapidly transformed healthcare delivery by enabling patients and providers to connect through digital technologies such as video conferencing, remote monitoring, and mobile health applications. While telehealth has significantly expanded access to care and improved efficiency, it has also exposed, and in some cases worsened, existing healthcare disparities, particularly for seniors and individuals who face challenges with technology use and availability. This report examines the history and importance of telehealth, evaluates whether access is truly equitable, analyzes causes of inequity in District 1, and proposes solutions with a focus on telehealth hubs. To learn more, read the full report.

Shreya Krishnakumar – Guided Development of Healthy Coping Mechanisms

Across all age groups and backgrounds, depression remains a significant community health concern. Despite its prevalence, pathways to recognition and treatment are often impacted by stigma and barriers to access. This project focuses on increasing depression awareness, reducing barriers to support, and sharing accessible coping strategies and local mental health resources. Through community outreach and information sharing, the project aims to promote healthier approaches to managing stress and encourage individuals to seek support when needed. To learn more, read the full report here.

Ayushi Singh – Who is the Library Really For? Youth, Immigrants, & Access in District 1

Public libraries are designed to provide free and equitable access to information, technology, and educational opportunities for all residents. However, despite offering a wide range of services, these libraries are not always fully utilized by the communities they aim to serve. Barriers such as language differences, limited outreach, scheduling conflicts, and gaps in digital literacy can create unequal access and block community engagement with library services. This project includes an informational presentation based on the research findings, along with a written report.

Minha Adnan – Closing the Food Access Gap in Alameda County

Approximately 1 in 4 Alameda County residents either face food insecurity or are at risk of it. Food insecurity can significantly affect household stability as well as individuals’ overall sense of well-being and community engagement. This paper analyzes food insecurity in District 1 by examining its causes, impacts, and potential solutions that could strengthen local communities. Research suggests that food insecurity is driven by a range of socioeconomic factors. including uneven job growth, income and wealth inequality, high housing costs, stagnant wages, rising costs of living, and underfunded social services. To learn more about potential long-term solutions to food insecurity in District 1, you can read the full report.

Asees Sethi – The Soil of Policy and the Seeds of Business Growth

What makes one business thrive while another just down the street struggles to survive? This report investigates that very question by analyzing six businesses operating in both Fremont and Union City. Through interviews with city officials and insights from various economic reports, it uncovers the real world impact of zoning, permitting, and infrastructure policies on local economic growth. If you’re interested in learning more about what policies help or harm our local economy, and what can be done to improve them, here is the link to the full report. 

Emylee Chen – Following the Funds in District 1: Save the Libraries

Have you heard about the budget cuts happening in District 1 right now? You probably have heard of at least a few including your local library possibly cutting down hours or your school cutting teacher positions to accommodate for the new budget. This report goes through the main budget cuts to the schools and the libraries in District 1 and how that has affected the 2025-2026 year. The most important thing you can do is be aware and be informed! If you would like to learn more about how these budget cuts are affecting our cities, you can visit the link to the full report or go through the linked website that includes the information as well.

Prisha Saraf – Urban Heat Inequality in Alameda County

Urban Heat affects every community differently depending on several factors: tree canopy, environmental risk, and demographic disadvantages. By using tools like CalEPA Urban Heat Island Index, CAL FIRE Tree Canopy Coverage, CalEnviroScreen 4.0, and U.S. Census ACS, multiple neighborhoods in Alameda County were identified for being heat sensitive. The project aimed to recognize at-risk areas in the county, examine patterns, and provide solutions that would help regulate urban heat.​ Here is the link to the full report.

Sophia Doan – Mapping Food Insecurity in Alameda County

Despite Silicon Valley’s reputation as one of the most successful technology hubs in the world, the region still grapples with persistent crises of poverty and homelessness. This report analyzes the structural causes of food insecurity in Alameda County, highlights trends in emerging food deserts, and proposes local policy solutions. See the interactive map visualizing the spatial distribution of food-insecure census tracts in relation to affordable food resources, including food banks, farmers’ markets, and CalFresh enrollment centers. See the research paper analyzing the food access landscape in Alameda County.

Sihan Zhang – Multimodal Bus-Bicycle Accessibility Proposal for Fremont

Bus and bike usage remain low in Fremont despite numerous investments into infrastructure improvements. This policy proposal identifies a number of problems discouraging bus usage in Fremont. It provides a number of solutions that are innovative but backed by precedent, emphasizing the potential for connection between Fremont’s bus and bicycle infrastructure. Read the paper here.

Lakshmi Nakka – Addressing Disparities in Sexual Health Education

Anatomy of Experience is a digital platform created to address disparities in sexual health education, especially for youth from marginalized backgrounds. Through a website, blog, curated resource hub, social media outreach, and the “Speak Up” competition, the project provides accessible, culturally relevant information while encouraging youth engagement. Complemented by original research and a forthcoming KQED Perspectives segment, the initiative works to break stigma, amplify diverse voices, and promote inclusive sexual health education. Final Project Materials.

Siya Singh – NourishED

NourishED is an initiative located in the Bay Area aiming to raise awareness and inform our community about early-onset eating disorders in teenagers. We host a wide variety of events, including letter writing, fundraising booths, movie/book screenings, and more, to expose the wider population to various types of eating disorders, increase visibility about preventative measures, and reduce stigma surrounding the topic. Join us to make a difference in the eating disorder community! Instagram Link, Report Link

Ishita Jalan – Educational Equity Hub for Fremont Students

Fremont is a diverse city known for its high-performing schools, yet many students face barriers to accessing affordable SAT prep and college application resources. Project Equity Hub aims to address this gap by creating a centralized, easy-to-use website that connects low-income students with free and low-cost support services across the Bay Area. Alongside online resources, trifold posters are placed in local libraries to increase visibility among students. If you want to learn more about how Equity Hub is supporting college readiness for underserved students, see the full report here. Website.

Anna Pham – Data to Action: Addressing Human Trafficking in Alameda County

Alameda County is the United States’ third-largest hotspot for human trafficking. In this research paper, areas at risk are identified and compared with a sample of resource locations in order to create recommendations for the District 1 office to best tackle this issue. This project aims to analyze risk factors for human trafficking in order to identify underserved areas in Alameda County using public data, online resource directories, and mapping software such as ArcGIS. Read the research paper here.

Jane Park – Arts Education in the State of California and Alameda County District 1

Arts education in California has been through a tumultuous history of both successes and setbacks. This paper examines the timeline of arts education development in this state, as well as its relevance in the cities of Alameda County District 1, by connecting real-world examples of arts education offerings that resulted from decades-long advocacy efforts. Specifically focusing on the Alameda County District 1’s local educational agencies, these research findings will explore the impact that arts education history has had on a local level. Looking into arts programs in public high schools of Dublin, Fremont, Livermore, and Pleasanton, this research showcases how arts education is approached in the First Supervisorial District of Alameda County. Research paper.

Akhil Venkatesh – Financial Literacy for Teens

In Alameda County, financial literacy is not a required part of the high school curriculum, leaving many students unprepared for real-world money management. Financial Literacy for Teens is an initiative that addresses this gap with an eight-lesson, teen-friendly curriculum delivered through in-person workshops, interactive webinars, and a dedicated website offering free resources. Topics in the curriculum include budgeting, saving, credit, and fraud prevention, taught using relatable examples and hands-on activities. Pilot webinar testing with local teens showed significant increases in financial confidence, and the program is set to expand through school and community partnerships. Website Link  Final Research Report

Danya Prakash – HealthLink Cards: Bridging Language Gaps in Healthcare for LEP Patients

HealthLink Cards is an innovative project designed to meet an urgent need among the 26+ million Americans with Limited English Proficiency (LEP). The repercussions of these language barriers, particularly in healthcare range from misdiagnosis, medication mistakes, and health consequences. In Alameda County District 1 there are 8.6% LEP households. It is essential to have tools to facilitate communication in the healthcare sector.

Research analysis paper.

Grant Ho – Informational Brochures for New Immigrants and the Elderly

This project aimed to make Alameda County services more accessible to new immigrants and the elderly by creating a clear, user-friendly brochure with concise descriptions and contact information for key programs. The brochure consists of sections for health and mental health, financial support and housing assistance, and child care. Over 300 brochures were distributed through libraries across the county and door-to-door in local neighborhoods, reaching hundreds of residents. The full report can be found here.