By Angelica Lacson April 25, 2018

The experience I’ve had as a Defend Our Future intern has changed my perspective on politics and our generation. Although a nursing student, I have always aspired to be involved with an environmental organization. Defend Our Future was the most active environmental group on campus and most importantly, the mission of Defend aligned to my values.

This spring semester, I have gotten the opportunity to know more about my state’s elected officials politicians. I had a chance to meet with Congresswoman Dina Titus about the recent shutdown of the EPA lab in Nevada, the important role EPA plays in the state and the Yucca Mountain nuclear waste repository. Some of my fellow interns met with state Senator Tick Segerblom to discuss his efforts to protect water quality in Nevada. These are just some of the issues that motivate me to educate my community and peers about these issues in Nevada. Through Defend, I have been able to encourage my peers to educate themselves about the environment ahead of the November election and beyond.

I have had the best experience learning to phone bank, enter data, host events and table with my fellow Defend Our Future interns. Defend Our Future has allowed me to meet with the most likeminded people who want to be the generation that changes the course on climate change. I cannot wait to see the exciting and impactful work that Defend Our Future will be doing in the months ahead!

Angelica Lacson is a sophomore at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.