Sebastian Obarrio
Washington,DC
Summary
Committed freshman at American University with experience in qualitative research, policy advocacy, and community engagement. Skilled in analyzing complex issues, collaborating deeply with peers, and communicating ideas across diverse audiences, with a strong interest in international relations, public policy, the law, and social impact.
Overview
2
2
Languages
2
2
years of professional experience
Work History
Qualitative Analysis Assistant
The Fund for Educational Excellence
01.2026 - Current
- Coding and analyzing qualitative interview data on multilingual family and student engagement & experiences in Baltimore City Public Schools.
- Identifying recurring themes and patterns across interviews, evaluating code saturation, and refining coding frameworks.
- Collaborating with research team members to identify general analysis findings and sharpen understandings of results.
Lead Youth Coordinator — Student Advocacy Cohort
The Fund for Educational Excellence
07.2025 - 08.2026
- Secured $80,000 grant from the Central Maryland Transportation Alliance & the Fund for Educational Excellence to establish a youth-led cohort focused on transit equity/reliability advocacy.
- Led candidate selection.
- Coordinated youth engagement with public officials & legislators.
- Organized rallies & speaking events.
Student Policy Advisory
MD Superintendent & BCPSS CEO Student Cabinet
11.2025 - 06.2026
- Selected in competitive processes to join advisory councils at the City and State levels.
- Represented student perspectives on policy,
equity, transportation, and environment. - Present recommendations to senior education leaders at meetings and events.
Co-President
Students Organizing for a Multicultural and Open Society (SOMOS)
08.2024 - 06.2026
- Coordinated with City & State officials, unions, organizations, and nonprofits to advance Multilingual Learner policy.
- Led youth advocacy in trips to state capital, organizing events, and driving recruitment.
- Invited to the 2024 United States Secretary of Education's summit.
City Council Page
Baltimore City Council
12.2025 - 05.2026
- Achieved paid internship selection via rigorous application competition.
- Gained firsthand experience into municipal governance/legislative proceedings.
- Developed an individual advocacy project and presented it to the board of Maryland Youth and the Law; was shared with MD state delegates.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - International Studies
American University
Washington, DC05-2030
Skills
- Fast Learner
- Attention to Detail
- Team Collaboration
- Problem-Solving
- Interpersonal Communication
Honors
- Georgetown University School of
Foreign Service Future Global
Leaders Fellowship - JHU SNF Agora Institute Elijah E.
Cummings Democracy Design Lab
(2nd place) - College Board School Recognition
Award for Outstanding Academic
Achievement - Finalist, Courting Art Baltimore
Gallery Competition (only
photography awarded, photo sold to
firm) - High School Principal’s Honor Roll (All Years)
- High School National Honor Society (All Years)
- High School Language National Honor Society (All
Years)
Languages
Spanish
Native or Bilingual
French
Limited Working
Timeline
Qualitative Analysis Assistant
The Fund for Educational Excellence
01.2026 - Current
City Council Page
Baltimore City Council
12.2025 - 05.2026
Student Policy Advisory
MD Superintendent & BCPSS CEO Student Cabinet
11.2025 - 06.2026
Lead Youth Coordinator — Student Advocacy Cohort
The Fund for Educational Excellence
07.2025 - 08.2026
Co-President
Students Organizing for a Multicultural and Open Society (SOMOS)
08.2024 - 06.2026
Bachelor of Arts - International Studies
American University