Valeria Estrada Cordero: Finding my voice in a New country
Discover the enriching journey of TFAS alumna Valeria Estrada Cordero ’25, a political science major from the University of the Ozarks, who discovered a whole new world during her transformative summer in Washington, D.C.
🏫 University: University of the Ozarks
📚 Major: Political Science
📍 Hometown: Clarksville, AR
🧭 Program Track: Business & Government Relations
💼 Internship: AG Bell
How has your TFAS Summer impacted you, professionally and/or personally?
🌎 Finding My Way in a New Place
As an international student from Costa Rica, the TFAS Summer has been one of the most important experiences of my life.
Professionally, working at the AG Bell Association helped me improve my communication skills and understand how nonprofit organizations work in the U.S. I learned how advocacy works at a national level and how important it is to support communities with real impact.
Personally, TFAS gave me the chance to meet people from different countries and backgrounds. I really loved the TFAS events, every lecture, site visit and social activity taught me something new and helped me connect with others. My TFAS experience helped me to have a clearer idea of the kind of professional I want to become.
What was the most interesting thing you did at your internship?
🌟 Making a Real, Tangible Impact
The most interesting thing I did during my internship was helping with the LOFT program and seeing how the program empowers teens who are deaf and hard of hearing to become strong leaders. I supported the planning and organization of the program, helped with logistics, and also got to know some of the participants through their applications. It was amazing to get to know their backgrounds, goals and excitement to be part of the program. Being part of something that makes a real difference in their lives was very meaningful for me, and I felt proud to contribute to a program that builds leadership and connection.
What did you like most about living in Washington, D.C.?
🏛️ Never a Dull Moment
What I liked most about living in D.C. was just how much there is to do and see. I loved walking around the monuments, visiting museums and just exploring the city with my friends from TFAS. It felt really special to live in a place where so many important things happen. I also enjoyed the mix of people from all over the world; every day in D.C felt exciting, and it has become one of my favorite cities.
What skill or mindset did you leave D.C. with that you didn’t have before?
📢 Finding My Voice
One mindset I left D.C. with that I didn’t have before is the belief that I truly belong in professional spaces, even outside my home country. At the beginning, I sometimes felt unsure of myself, especially as an international student, but being in D.C., surrounded by driven people, engaging in real-world projects and connecting with professionals helped me build confidence. I realized that my background and voice matter, and I learned how important it is to take initiative, speak up and be curious. Now I’m not afraid to ask questions, introduce myself or step into new challenges. That shift in mindset changed the way I see my future and what I’m capable of.
How did this experience change the way you show up in professional spaces?
🔑 Confidence is Key
This experience changed the way I show up in professional spaces by making me more confident and proactive. Before, I sometimes hesitated to speak up or share my ideas, especially because English is my second language and I wasn’t sure how others would respond. But during my internship and TFAS events, I learned that it’s important to participate actively, ask questions and connect with others. Now, I’m more comfortable introducing myself, contributing to discussions and building relationships. I also pay more attention to listening carefully and being open to different perspectives. Overall, this experience helped me show up as a more engaged and confident professional.
What advice do you have for future TFAS students?
☀️ Seize the Day
My advice for future TFAS students is to take full advantage of every opportunity, whether it’s attending events, networking, or asking questions. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and meet new people, because those connections can open doors you didn’t expect. Also, be curious and open-minded; listen to different perspectives and try to learn from every experience, even if it feels challenging.