Dana Cadena Medina
Fall 2026
Dana is a senior at Arizona State University completing a Bachelor’s of Science in International Relations, along with certificates in Latino Politics and Policy and Legal Systems and Governance. Born and raised in Mesa, Arizona, Dana's academic interests are rooted in her lived experiences as a Mexican American and include borderlands studies, international migration law, and cross-border trade, with a particular focus on U.S.–Mexico relations. After graduation, Dana plans to attend law school and pursue a career in international law, where she hopes to bridge her commitment to humanitarian values with her passion for public policy. Outside the classroom, she serves as an intern with the Engaging Families Lab, where she continues developing her language skills while working with Spanish-speaking participants. Dana also serves as a When We Count Fellow, helping register college students to vote and encouraging civic engagement across campus. As a Junior Fellow, Dana looks forward to expanding her research experience while contributing to projects that support the lab’s mission of fostering leadership and diplomacy, and learning about national security.