Professional Bio

Josefina Cárcamo Vergara is a second-year graduate student specializing in Comparative Politics at Penn State. She holds a Master’s degree in Political Science, with a concentration in Comparative Politics, from Texas Tech University, and a Master of Public Affairs (MPA) from Indiana University Bloomington. Before transitioning to academia, Josefina worked as a lawyer in Colombia for five years, focusing on legal and policy issues.

Her research explores the dynamics shaping women’s political representation and participation in decision-making roles, with particular attention to marginalized groups in political institutions. Josefina’s academic work aims to contribute to a deeper understanding of how institutional factors impact the inclusion and empowerment of underrepresented groups in politics.

Outside of her academic pursuits, Josefina enjoys painting, baking, gardening, and Colombian coffee.