| After graduating at the top of his class from Valencia High School last spring with a 4.5 grade point average, Santa Clarita resident Derek Faraldo, is making a difference in the world of politics…and he’s only 18 years old. No stranger to the political world, Derek started campaigning locally at the age of 12 for Congressman McKeon and has campaigned for a variety of candidates at all levels of government ever since. “My teachers were inspirational figures and always encouraged me to do my best,” states Derek. “I participated in Debate and Student Government which provided me with the skills I needed for college. I truly believe we have the best public schools in the state.” Due to his passion for politics and desire to make a difference in his community, Derek made his way to the east coast to attend Georgetown University in Washington D.C., where he studies international relations and international law. “I believe we live in a global world that requires understanding global politics, economics and law,” states Derek. “Many jobs in the future will require international knowledge and I want to be able to help others understand the world we live in. This means helping businesses trade globally and helping keep jobs here in the United States.” President of the Cuban American Student Association and member of the Georgetown College Republicans, Derek hosts his own radio talk show once a week to discuss politics. He is also part of the Congressional Award Program, a non-profit program that rewards academic achievement, community service and physical fitness. “I believe that a good education, giving back to the community and a healthy body is a recipe for success,” states Derek. “This program stresses goals that every young person should strive for.” Because of his achievements, Derek recently received the Bronze Congressional Medal from Congressman McKeon. “Derek is a talented young man and a shining example of what dedicated young folks can do for their communities and for this nation when they choose to be involved in public service,” states Congressman McKeon. “I am proud to have had Derek as part of our team here in Washington, and I look forward to his future accomplishments.” Derek recently released his first book, The Future of the GOP. “This book is the first step to revitalizing a Republican Party that needs a new path,” states Derek. “The 2012 presidential elections proved once again that the Republican Party must work on its outreach to young people, and I lay out the path for how the Republican Party can do this.” The Future of the GOP is available on Amazon for kindle and other electronic devices. With his sights set on graduating from Georgetown University a semester early, Derek plans to enter law school, but will always look for ways to get involved in public policy. “People may have lost faith in their government but they should not loose their faith in people,” states Derek. “I hope that I can be part of a new generation of leaders that restores the public trust.” To learn more about the Congressional Award that Derek Faraldo received, visit http://www.congressionalaward.org/about.php.  |
|