Bolles senior Diya Comar ’27 spent the summer in Washington, D.C., as a Congressional Intern in the office of Representative Nick LaLota, who represents New York's First Congressional District.

As the office's only high school intern, she supported constituent services, legislative research and daily congressional operations while gaining firsthand insight into the legislative process.

Throughout the internship, Comar had the opportunity to attend congressional briefings, committee hearings and policy discussions focused on healthcare, global health and the United States' role in addressing international challenges.

These experiences allowed her to observe how lawmakers, policy experts and stakeholders collaborate to develop legislation and respond to complex public policy issues. By witnessing these discussions firsthand, Comar said she gained a deeper understanding of the intersection between science, healthcare and public policy, reinforcing her interest in pursuing a career where she can help shape evidence-based solutions to global challenges.