Meet the Interns Driving the 2025 App Challenge This Summer!
The Congressional App Challenge is pleased to welcome our new Congressional Affairs Interns, Jacob Lindy and Shay Jessee. They join the team at a significant moment for the program—over 360 Members of Congress have already registered to host App Challenges in their districts, and hundreds of students nationwide are actively developing and submitting their original apps. With strong early momentum, Jacob and Shay will play a valuable role in supporting the continued growth and success of the 2025 Challenge.
As part of the Congressional Affairs team, they will assist with congressional outreach, provide logistical support, and contribute to key initiatives aimed at strengthening engagement with both congressional staff and student participants. Their commitment to public service and interest in technology policy make them strong additions to our team. We’re excited to have them on board—learn more about Jacob and Shay below.
Shay Jessee is a junior at the University of California, Berkeley, double majoring in Political Science and English. She is passionate about the intersection of law, technology, and communication, and is particularly interested in pursuing a career in corporate law with a focus on media, technology, and cybersecurity. On campus, Shay serves as a Caseworker for the UC Berkeley Student Legal Clinic, where she supports community members with legal assistance and tax filing, leveraging her certification through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. With a strong foundation in business litigation work and public service, Shay hopes to bring a thoughtful, advocacy-driven approach to the legal challenges facing corporations in an increasingly digital world.
Jacob Lindy is a rising fourth-year student at the University of California, Berkeley, pursuing a dual degree in Society and Environment with a concentration in Justice and Sustainability, and Legal Studies with a focus on Crime, Law, and Social Control. He is committed to sustainability and advancing equitable access to essential resources. On campus, Jacob serves as the Director of Basic Needs & Resources in the Associated Students of the University of California, where he leads initiatives focused on mental health, housing insecurity, food access, and campus safety. Jacob is excited to bring his experience in advocacy, policy, and student leadership to the Congressional App Challenge this summer. Outside of a professional scene, you can find him reading in the park, discovering new music, and playing guitar.
During their time with the Congressional App Challenge, Shay and Jacob are eager to gain firsthand experience working alongside congressional staff and engaging directly with constituents. Shay is especially excited to support efforts that expand access to STEM education and ensure students from all backgrounds have the opportunity to engage with their elected officials through coding. Jacob is particularly interested in the opportunity to collaborate with congressional offices, uplift youth voices, and help bring greater visibility to the next generation of innovators. Both are enthusiastic about contributing to a program that empowers students through technology and civic engagement.
Registration for the 2025 Congressional App Challenge is now open. Students in middle and high school can submit their applications prior to October 30th, 2025 to be considered by their Member of Congress. To learn more about the Congressional App Challenge to and to submit your application, please click here.