Tania Chappell Reflects on Her Capitol Pathways Internship

Guest Blog by Tania Chappell, Twin Cities Habitat's Capitol Pathways Intern for 2024

Capitol Pathways provides access to policymaking and public service to the next generation of leaders who are Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC). It is a paid spring internship program for BIPOC students who are currently enrolled in a 2- or 4-year college or university in Minnesota.

Hello, my name is Tania Chappell. I am a senior majoring in Criminal Justice with a minor in Psychology at the University of Northwestern - St. Paul. I have had the honor of serving as a Government Affairs intern with Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity through the Capitol Pathways program.

During my internship, I experienced many memorable moments that will stay with me forever. I had the opportunity to gain valuable in-office experience and immerse myself in a supportive work environment.

One of the major projects I contributed to was Habitat on the Hill, collaborating with the Government Affairs, Communications teams, and Habitat for Humanity Minnesota. I gained lots of experience, from attending weekly meetings to drafting staff emails and coordinating event logistics. I even had a hand in selecting the scarves for the event!

Supporters hold up scarves and signs that Tania helped select at the 2024 Habitat on the Hill event.

In addition to Habitat on the Hill, I attended a committee hearing on The Heights bill. This experience exposed me to the inner workings of committee hearings, familiarized me with legislative language, and broadened my horizon for learning how to draft notes during a committee hearing. I also engaged with lawmakers to advocate for the HOA Ombudsperson bill (learn about our full 2024 legislative agenda here).

As I reflect on my time at Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity, I am filled with gratitude. I extend my heartfelt thanks to the Government Affairs team for their guidance and support throughout this learning journey. I couldn't have asked for a better team to learn from, surrounded by incredible individuals. I am also grateful to the entire Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity community for embracing me with open arms. From day one, I felt welcomed and valued, which made every moment feel like home.

Twin Cities Habitat's Government Affairs team, from left to right: Emily Kirkevold, Eva Goldfarb, Tania Chappell, and Greta Gaetz.

This internship has broadened my understanding of policy work, a field that wasn't extensively covered in my Criminal Justice studies. Despite entering with minimal experience, I thrived in this role, discovering a passion for advocacy and a newfound appreciation for homeownership. Recognizing the significance of homeownership in Minnesota, I am committed to ensuring that voices continue to be heard on this critical issue.

In May 2024, I will graduate with my bachelor's degree and embark on a new journey to pursue my paralegal certification. Over the next two years, I aspire to work as a paralegal at a law firm and dive deeper into the legal field.

Raise your voice! Join the movement of Habitat supporters advocating for affordable homeownership in our cities, across Minnesota, and throughout the nation.