August 26, 2004

Divya Musinipally and her extraordinary summer

By Lorraine Gabbert
Staff Writer

For most high school students, summer vacation means hanging out with friends, trips to the shore, and a welcome break from studies—but this summer Leland High School junior Divya Musinipally had loftier goals in mind.

In August, she attended law and journalism classes at Oxford University through the Oxbrige Academic Program.

Besides being thrown into a college atmosphere, it was Musinipally’s first experience being on her own for so long—and in a foreign country, no less. “I felt very independent and it made me more interested in law and politics,” she concludes.

After returning from her month-long stay in London, Musinipally threw herself into local politics working as an intern in Vice Mayor Pat Dando’s office. “It’s been a really wonderful experience for me,” she shares. “From attending weekly meetings, I’ve gained insight into how the city council really works, how they make decisions, and the kinds of issues they deal with every day. It’s really interesting.” Musinipally also had the opportunity to organize and observe several community meetings regarding second units. “It was really interesting to see how the community members reacted to what was going on in the city and what their comments were,” she says.

“Divya has so much potential,” stated Vice Mayor Pat Dando. “She is a bright young woman and exactly the kind of person that we need as an elected official or someone that works in a public capacity. She’s done an exceptional job for us. We probably have learned as much from her, as hopefully she has learned from her time at City Hall. When I see individuals like Divya, I know that our future generation is in very good hands.”

For Musinipally, striving to succeed seems as natural as breathing. From competing on Leland’s junior varsity girls swim team, and in state and national speech and debate tournaments, to editing her high school’s newspaper and magazine, and performing with an Indian classical dance company, she meets all challenges head-on with a quiet confidence and grace. “I’ve always wanted to be the best I can be,” she affirms.

Although assisting in the Vice Mayor’s office is her first work experience, it isn’t Musinipally’s first foray into politics.

While a sophomore in high school, she acted as a member of Congressman Mike Honda’s Student Advisory Committee, and even attended presidential candidate John Kerry’s recent campaign stop at the Tech Museum.

Musinipally appreciates the opportunity provided to her through interning in the Vice Mayor’s office. “It’s been a good experience,” she attests, “and has helped me to prepare for a real job.”

Besides providing insight, the internship has also piqued Musinipally’s interest in local politics. She views the Vice Mayor’s role in the community as a very demanding, but rewarding one, and hopes to continue her internship through the coming school year. Next summer, she is considering interning in Washington, D.C., with a senator or congressman. Whether in law or politics, or another field entirely, it is evident that for Musinipally, the future’s so bright, she’s gotta wear shades.