In keeping with our tradition of interviewing new team members, we asked our Policy Intern, Gianni Ceccarelli a few questions so that you all can get to know her!
Tell us a little bit about yourself.
I grew up in Claremont, California and went to undergrad at Bryant University in Rhode Island where I graduated with a Bachelor’s in Politics and Law. While at Bryant I played softball and served as an executive board member for the Student Athlete Advisory Committee, the Head Copy Editor for the university newspaper, and as a peer mentor for legal studies and political science. In college I focused my studies on public policy with an emphasis on environmental regulation.
After graduating college, I started law school at the University of San Diego School of Law. I am currently on the board of the Environmental Law Society and involved in several other clubs.
I have been enjoying exploring San Diego and soaking in the sunshine since moving back to California. When I am not studying I am at the beach, hiking, or playing in the law school slow pitch league.
How did you become interested in Circulate San Diego?
I became interested in Circulate San Diego because of its mission and values. As someone who walks to school and frequently takes public transportation, I admire that Circulate San Diego is working to promote public transit, safe streets, and sustainable growth. I have always been interested in working in the non-profit sector and I am excited about the opportunity to help contribute to Circulate San Diego’s mission of creating “excellent mobility choices.”
What’s your most memorable face palm moment? Or what is your biggest achievement to date? Choose one.
My biggest achievement to date is attending law school. I grew up knowing that I wanted to have a career that helped others. In college I realized that my ultimate dream was to go to law school in order to become an advocate for those in need.
I am beyond fortunate and honored to attend the University of San Diego School of Law. I have enjoyed learning how to be a strong advocate for others thus far and have made close friends in what feels like an instant. I have fallen in love with San Diego in the few months I have lived here and look forward to being an advocate for the San Diego community.
If you could choose anyone, who would you pick as your mentor?
If I could choose anyone, I would choose the late Ruth Bader Ginsburg as my mentor. While it may seem cliché, I admire her tenacity in fighting gender-based discrimination and her ability to write strong and compelling opinions during her long tenure as a justice on the Supreme Court. I strive to embody the relentlessness and resiliency she displayed in her fight for equality and hope to one day be as strong as an advocate as her.
