Natalee Paniagua

Hi! My name is Natalee Paniagua, and I just graduated from Bishop Montgomery High School in Torrance, California. This fall, I will be attending the University of California, Irvine, where I will be majoring in Political Science. I am dedicated and driven by my deep passion for community service and justice. Growing up in Compton, I understand the importance of strong leadership and advocacy, especially in an underrepresented community. My interest in American government, along with the lack of qualified candidates in Compton’s city elections, has inspired me to pursue a career that combines service with law. I have participated in various volunteer efforts, including canvassing for many of my district councilpersons to help them get elected, translating and tabling for the League of Women Voters of the Greater Los Angeles, and interning for Assembly member Al Muratsuchi, where I answered calls from constituents and proposed a bill that I presented to the assemblymember. Throughout my middle school and high school years, I have participated in many Compton back-to-school drives and city cleanups, which earned me the City of Compton Outstanding Youth Volunteer award in 2024. I am committed to uplifting others through civic engagement, with my voice and experience. I have made it my personal mission to help my city thrive and reach its full potential. My long-term goal is to become a judge, to ensure fairness in the legal system, and to be a voice for those who are often unheard. As a delegate at California Boys and Girls State, I took a mock Bar exam, passed, and was soon elected to be a Superior Court Judge which solidified my decision to continue down a path for a legal career. I hope that I can inspire others and represent my community, in a field where there often lacks representation.