Junior English Major Builds Path Toward Law, Public Service

When Alabama A&M University junior Natahniel Israel returned to Chicago’s 37th Ward office for a third consecutive summer internship, he initially wondered whether it was time for something new. The English major and Chicago native had already spent two summers with the office and was unsure how much more the experience could offer.

“I was transparent in my desire to seek work somewhere else because I thought that I had a ceiling with my time here,” Israel said. “However, after I came back to the 37th Ward, they gave me the tools to flourish into a stronger leadership role.”

That opportunity came with a new role as a youth development and engagement liaison in the office of 37th Ward Alderman Emma Mitts. His internship, which ran from June 1 through Aug. 15, placed him at the intersection of youth engagement, community advocacy and city government.

His responsibilities included meeting with young people throughout the community, bringing their perspectives to community and city meetings, and creating spaces centered on mentorship. He also had opportunities to observe the day-to-day functions of Chicago city government.

Israel’s relationship with the 37th Ward office began when he volunteered during a flood relief program sponsored by the office. While volunteering, he learned about its internship program and eventually became the office’s sole intern. Israel said one of the most rewarding aspects of his third summer was the creative freedom and trust his supervisors and mentors gave him. The experience also provided a closer look at the people behind public office and strengthened his understanding of civic engagement.

“Being an intern gave me a unique perspective,” Israel said. “As citizens, we owe it to our communities and to ourselves to be active in voting at all levels, policymaking and activism.”

His experiences in Chicago government also gave him opportunities to meet Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson, U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin of Illinois and Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias. He also interviewed 4th Ward Alderman Lamont Robinson about his path to public service and work in Chicago government.

Working closely with Mitts has been particularly influential. Israel said he has been impressed by her connection to the residents she represents and her ability to remain approachable.

“Her presence reminds you of an older relative that people in the community know on a first-name basis,” Israel said. “Above her political beliefs, she has always been down to earth.”

Israel said Mitts has also emphasized the importance of authenticity, encouraging him to learn from accomplished leaders without losing sight of the qualities that make him an individual. That message resonates as Israel considers his own future in public service. After graduating from AAMU in May 2027, he plans to attend law school and begin his career as an attorney. His long-term ambitions include a career in politics and, ultimately, running for mayor of Chicago.

AAMU has played an important role in preparing him for that path. Israel's connection to The Hill began before he enrolled. Both of his parents attended Alabama A&M and met at the University. When it came time to choose a college, Israel said Lori Horton in the Office of Admissions helped distinguish AAMU from the other schools that had accepted him.

“AAMU offered me the most stability as well with scholarships,” said Israel, a Heritage Gold and Normalite scholarship recipient.

His decision to major in English also grew from guidance he received at the University. Israel said professor Charlotte Slater encouraged him to switch to English because the discipline could strengthen skills useful in his pursuit of a law degree.

Beyond the classroom, Israel serves as executive president of Collegiate 100 and as a University Echo student ambassador. He previously served as Mr. Ivy Gamma Mu for the 2025-26 academic year and as royal escort to Miss Junior during the 2024-25 academic year.

“The culture, community and people have not just given me a place to call home, but also a space to grow and flourish as an individual,” he said.

Israel said one of the most important lessons he will carry forward is the value of persistence and relationships.

“When pursuing something you’re passionate about, exhaust all of your resources,” Israel said. “I learned that in a professional setting, nobody is guaranteed to grant you an opportunity just because you’re qualified. So don’t just network, but meet good people while valuing relationships because it has taken me far.”

He also hopes his experiences encourage others navigating setbacks or self-doubt.

“Smile in the face of adversity,” Israel said. “There are so many things out of our control, but a positive and ambitious attitude can be the difference between success and failure.”

For Israel, returning to the 37th Ward office for a third summer reinforced that lesson. What he initially thought might offer limited room for growth instead became an opportunity to take on greater responsibility and strengthen his leadership skills — another step toward the career he envisions in law and public service.

“There’s no place like The Hill,” Israel said. “Start here. Go anywhere.”