Student Serves as Director of Hispanic Media for O’Malley

Jose Aristimuño with his dad and Governor Martin O'Malley after the Democratic presidential debate
in Las Vegas on October 13, 2015 


This semester, Jose Aristimuño, SPA/BA ’12, is more frequently seen on television than inside Pence Law Library. The 2L is taking a year off from American University Washington College of Law to serve as national director of Hispanic media for Martin O’Malley’s presidential campaign.

Aristimuño, who started working for Governor O’Malley as a volunteer, began his new role in September 2015, coincidentally only a few days after the official start of the school year. We talked to him about the campaign, his plan to engage with the Latino voters, and his law school experience.
 

Gaining Practical Skills

Given the ever-changing news cycle, Aristimuño’s work responsibilities and schedule vary daily, depending on the events happening at both the national and state level across the country.  

Keeping up with the pace was easy enough for Aristimuño, who is used to balancing demanding law school curriculum with advocacy work for the Hispanic and Latino communities.

As it turns out, law school has played an instrumental role in how he approaches his tasks on the job. “Being a law student at American University Washington College of Law has taught me the importance of prioritizing tasks, paying attention to details, and focusing on both short- and long-term goals,” he says.
 

On the Campaign Trails

Earlier this year, right before the first Democratic presidential debate in Las Vegas, Aristimuño spent three weeks in Nevada, where he held meetings with the voters to educate them about Governor O’Malley’s record.

 

“My job is to make sure that Governor O’Malley’s vision is being properly communicated to Latinos from all walks of life and all across the country,” Aristimuño says.

The student – who reaches thousands of people on social media – works on building an engaging and accessible campaign, nurturing relationships with Latino networks, thought leaders and community organizers, and voters nationwide.

“Having an opportunity to meet and have meaningful conversations with people from all across the country is a reminder that the United States of America continues to be a generous and compassionate nation,” Aristimuño says.
 

Back to School

“Jose's civic involvement speaks volumes about the quality, well-roundedness, and promise of the students we attract,” says Tony Varona, professor of law and associate dean for faculty and academic affairs. “It also, of course, speaks to the treasure trove that is our student diversity.”

After the presidential election cycle is over, Aristimuño plans to return to American University Washington College of Law as a part-time student.