Billy Yates

WASHINGTON, D.C. — At the end of this school year in May, 17-year-old Billy Yates did not know much about politics. But after participating in Texas Boys State in early June, he was “on fire” about being a leader and helping change the world for the better.

“The next day after coming back from The University of Texas (host to Boys State), I Googled who represented me at all levels of government, printed out the phone numbers and started calling, attempting to get any volunteer position or internship possible,” said Yates, a Sulzbach-Rosenberg, Germany, native, currently living in Cibolo.

Luckily for Yates, the Office of U.S. Rep. Henry Cuellar answered his phone call and, after a face-to-face interview, he was granted an internship position.

“Billy is an extremely dedicated and responsible intern, and someone who truly takes pride in his work,” Cuellar said. “This internship will help him grow as a person and will be very beneficial for his career goals.”

Yates says that although his stay with Cuellar has been short, he already has learned and accomplished a lot.

“It’s been really interesting to see how problems are solved and just the way government works overall for the people,” said the Steele High School senior. “The most interesting thing has been the polling calls, where constituents express their views on almost everything from gas prices to polar bears to conspiracy theories.”

Yates is currently one of 20 students participating in Cuellar’s internship program in the district and Washington, D.C. Each year, Cuellar offers an opportunity to students interested in pursuing a career in politics or government. The role of the interns is to assist with general office duties, and at the same time be exposed to casework and learn how a representative can help citizens with federal issues.

Yates said he has realized that in order for someone to be helped or be heard, the person needs to get involved.

“Democracy is not a spectator sport, and it would be better for all of us and the country if we participated in the process,” added Yates, the son of Bill and Maria-Rouenna Yates. He is also very interested in helping out his community of Cibolo and the issues facing it.

As for his internship, Yates described it in three powerful words: Enlightening, engaging and educational.

Internships with Cuellar are offered from August-December, January-May and throughout the summer. Students and parents interested in learning more about the internship program in Washington can contact Terry Stinson, chief of staff, at 202-225-1640; for internships in the district, contact Cynthia Gaona, deputy chief of staff, at 271-2851.