MTA’s New York Political Action Club, NYPAC, recently met with State Assemblywoman Carmen De La Rosa. De La Rosa explored current issues facing the communities in her district and helped students understand state government policies and infrastructure. She encouraged students to get involved in their communities and shared that she chose to become a legislator because she felt that the voice of young leadership was missing from local government. “I knew my community and I knew the needs of my community,” said De La Rosa. Because she understood the issues her community faced, De La Rosa was able to provide the solutions necessary to resolve its problems.

Assemblywoman De La Rosa also reviewed the State Assembly term limits and discussed the essential tools to run for office, including funding, community support, and having a pulse on the issues of interest to the community. During the lively Q&A session she led, students asked intelligent questions which sparked thoughtful discussions. When asked to share her view on funding for private schools, a hot topic in the Jewish community, De La Rosa explained that she believes in increasing funding to private schools because investing in all sectors of education leads to a diverse workforce. It was truly an inspiring conversation for our students who are interested in pursuing political careers.