Scarlet Service Stories: Santiago Diaz De Leon Dominguez
Santiago Diaz De Leon Dominguez, Institute of International Education
Santiago Diaz de Leon Dominguez was excited to start his new life in America as a Rutgers–Newark student in the year of 2020.
But instead of getting to know his peers and his explore his surroundings, Diaz de Leon, like the rest of us, had to hunker down with his family during the COVID-19 lockdown shortly after emigrating from Mexico to New Jersey.
Diaz de Leon, 23, promised himself that when society reopened, he would never turn down an opportunity to expand his world view. That’s how he came to spend the summer in the nation’s capital as a Scarlet Service intern working with the Institute of International Education (IIE). The experience checked off many firsts for the rising senior: first internship, first trip to Washington, D.C. and first chance to live with other students.
“I’m having a great experience. This city is beautiful. I love going for runs from the Capitol through the National Mall and ending at the monuments,” he said. “This is my first time living in a dorm. I take the train every day to Newark. The fact that you can just go to the room next door and hang out with friends, that is so refreshing. I love it.”
As a political science major minoring in international affairs, Diaz de Leon said he made it a point to take advantage of any chance to network this summer. While on the job at IIE, working in outreach and recruitment for the Fulbright Program, he was making connections with students and professors from around the country while ensuring scholars have the information they need to get the most out of their research experiences abroad. Outside the office, he gained contacts while participating in group tours, meetings and informal gatherings that he knows will serve him well when he starts his career. Whether that career is on The Hill, at the new Mexican consulate opening in New Brunswick or at IIE in New York City remains to be seen. But, Diaz de Leon knows the experience he gained during his time as a Scarlet Service intern is invaluable.
“I see this as a stepping stone,” he said. “I think this program is going to be really transformative for me.”