Brenden Mercado

WORK HISTORY

EDUCATION

ABOUT BRENDEN MERCADO

I am a politically engaged and service-driven leader entering law school with a strong foundation in research, policy analysis, community engagement, and organizational leadership. I will graduate May ‘26 from the University of Utah with a double major in Criminology and Political Science (Law & Politics emphasis) and minors in Campaign Management, Applied Ethics, and Sociology.Throughout my undergraduate years, I have developed a deep commitment to public service, justice, and ethical leadership, values I plan to carry into my legal education and future career.My experience spans student government, congressional and political internships, nonprofit and community programming, and fraternity leadership. At the University of Utah, I advanced quickly within the Associated Students of the University of Utah (ASUU), culminating in serving as Associate Director of Campus Events. In Beta Theta Pi, I’ve held multiple executive roles, including VP of Internal Programming, Philanthropy Chair, Peer Health Educator, and VP of Programming, where I oversaw philanthropy initiatives, member development, social programming, and alumni relations. I now sit on the Board of Trustees of Beta Theta Pi as a Collegiate Commissioner, where I will help set the strategic direction of the fraternity.Beyond campus, I’ve served in roles that strengthened my understanding of public policy and constituent needs. I have interned for Mayor Tara Campbell of Yorba Linda in both governmental and campaign capacities, worked with the Salt Lake County Republican Party on fundraising and communications, and supported constituent services as a congressional intern in Senator Mike Lee’s Salt Lake City office. In the Summer of 2025, I worked extensively in public policy as a legislative intern for Congresswoman Young Kim in Washington, D.C.Across every experience, I’ve learned how to think critically, communicate clearly, operate with integrity, and lead teams through meaningful work. As I look forward to a career in law, I am excited to further develop my skills in legal analysis, advocacy, and public-policy problem-solving, with the long-term goal of contributing to impactful, principled leadership in the legal or public sector.