TFAS Alumni Profile - Sandra Taboada-Palau '24

Discover the enriching journey of TFAS alumna Sandra Taboada-Palau ’24, a journalism major from the University of Houston, who discovered a whole new world during her transformative summer in Washington, D.C. As a standout intern at Fed Net TV, Sandra delved into the heart of political reporting and gained hands-on experience that would shape her career path. Living in such a historic city, she found enjoyment in exploring the sites and embracing the D.C. social culture.

🎓 University: University of Houston
📚 Major: Journalism
📍 Hometown: Houston, TX
🧭 Program Track: Journalism + Communications
💼 Internship: Fed Net TV

What was the most interesting thing you did at your internship?

✡️ Attended Netanyahu’s Address to Congress
Working in the Capitol, especially during a presidential election, is an incredible and historic opportunity. The top moment at my internship was when Benjamin Netanyahu, prime minister of Israel, addressed Congress. Being a part of such an important and historic event in U.S. and D.C. history was mind-blowing. I was in a room with the most influential people in the United States, including several senators, representatives, Elon Musk, Benjamin Netanyahu and the prime minister’s wife. I got a seat 15 people away from Benjamin Netanyahu’s wife and Elon Musk. It was incredible to see what it is like to experience not just that moment but a State of the Union address, which would happen in the same room. This moment also allowed me to understand how vital journalists are. In the Capitol, necessary hearings, press conferences, sessions, etc., are easily accessible to the press rather than the public. The reason is that the nation needs more journalists to ask hard questions, keep politicians accountable and help the public feel represented during these events.

What did you like most about living in Washington, D.C.?

🏛️ A Town of History, Energy and Influence
I loved the work environment of D.C. I loved knowing I was in a city filled with influential people, which pushed me to improve in my field because I knew I needed to be my best version to succeed. It is also a historic city because it is the center of politics and international affairs. So, seeing the Washington Monument every night from my window never got old and reminded me how lucky I was to be in D.C. Lastly, the nightlife environment is incredible because the city does not sleep even after work. You have so many rooftop bars facing the Capitol and fun activities you can attend to enjoy the city as if you were a local rather than a tourist.

How did you grow professionally during your time in Washington, D.C.?

🏃‍➡️ Adapting to the Speed of D.C.
Living in D.C., as well as my internship, enhanced my skills in journalism by forcing me into a fast-paced environment. This environment forced me to understand what people need to know and take every opportunity to speak to members of Congress. Time means everything in journalism and D.C. Working as a journalist in D.C. is different than being a journalist anywhere else because not only is it part of the top ten media markets, but it is the center of politics and history. Political events usually happen in D.C., so journalists must be ready and quick to break the news first to the public.

Sandra and friends in the Senate

What was your favorite TFAS event?

🪽 Braver Angels Debate
My favorite TFAS event is the Braver Angels Debate. I enjoyed everyone’s openness to opinions when discussing how to regain the public’s trust in the media. Some opinions were out there, but those opinions allowed others to feel like they could express them without judgment. The debate taught me to always keep an open mind to all opinions instead of being closed-minded about my views.

What advice do you have for future TFAS students?

👍 Stay Engaged and Take Advantage of Every Opportunity
Take full advantage of D.C. and all the program offers. For example, networking is essential. Present yourself without fear if you see an influential journalist, politician, etc. I was taught that the worst thing that could happen is someone saying no, so take any chance to go up to people, present yourself, get a LinkedIn or request a coffee networking date. The same thing goes with class and other social TFAS events: always ask questions and let yourself be curious. Asking questions and talking to people who can help you in your career or understand a lecture is always beneficial.