Over the Years
1987
Photo Credit: René DeAnda
I was born in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, in May 1987. Every time I visit, I find myself wondering how different my life might have been if I had stayed. The people are so warm and welcoming, and the simple joys there bring me so much happiness—like savoring Banh Xeo or a steaming bowl of Pho in the morning.
I often find myself reminiscing while flipping through old photos of my younger self. Vietnam will always be a part of me—it’s not just where I’m from, but an inseparable piece of who I am.
1990
Photo Credit: Jenny Marvin
At just 3 years old, I immigrated to the United States as my parents pursued the American Dream. I often reflect on the immense courage it took for them to leave their family and everything familiar behind to embark on a new journey, all to create a better life for their children.
They arrived in the U.S. without knowing a word of English, yet they were willing to take that leap of faith. Their sacrifice laid the foundation for everything I’ve been able to achieve today, and I am forever grateful for their bravery and determination.
1990 – 2005
Photo Credit: Mi Pham
I had a fairly structured upbringing in Worcester (pronounced “Woostah”), Massachusetts, where my parents prioritized ensuring I had a strong education. I vividly remember evenings spent reciting multiplication tables to meet my dad’s expectations.
In school, I was generally well-behaved, though I had my share of small mistakes along the way. I took pride in being the captain of my high school Cross Country team, competing in Track & Field, and playing basketball. Looking back, I’m deeply grateful for the teachers who inspired me and supported me throughout my childhood—they played such a pivotal role in shaping who I am today.
2006 – 2010
Photo Credit: Sincerely Media
After high school, I chose to pursue a degree in Visual Media Arts at Emerson College. Over those four years, I gained invaluable knowledge about filmmaking and hands-on experience on production sets.
I also met incredible lifelong friends and discovered my identity as a member of the LGBTQ+ community. My time at Emerson shaped many of my core beliefs, particularly the importance of working hard and striving to do your best to achieve your goals.
2010 – 2017
Photo Credit: Ahmet Yalçınkaya
After graduating from Emerson College in 2009, I packed up and moved to the West Coast to pursue a career in the entertainment industry. The first month and a half were tough as I worked to get my foot in the door, but eventually, I landed an opportunity working on a new pilot for Simon Fuller, creator of American Idol.
2017 – 2021
Photo Credit: Ian Schneider
In 2017, I made a career shift into a new industry. Education has always been a cornerstone of my life, so when the opportunity arose to work at a college, I found it to be an exciting change of pace. I joined Pepperdine University’s study abroad department, where I advise students on the incredible opportunities they have to travel the world.
This role has been a dream come true, as it combines my passions for travel, education, and servant leadership. I’ve been with Pepperdine since 2020, and it has truly been one of the best career decisions I’ve ever made.
2017 – 2019
Photo Credit: Adeolu Eletu
While working at Pepperdine, I earned my MBA to add value to my skill set and credentials, as well as to develop the business acumen needed to one day pursue my own entrepreneurial ventures. The two years I spent working toward my MBA sparked a strong entrepreneurial drive within me and fueled my desire to lead a company in the future.
The next few years will be focused on working toward this goal, and I’m genuinely excited about what lies ahead.
2021 – Current
Photo Credit: Marvin Meyer
With the goal of launching my own business one day, I decided to gain firsthand experience by working at a startup and learning what it takes to build a company from the ground up. I joined the tech startup ClickUp, where I gained valuable insights into productivity and software development. After experiencing the startup life, I made a transition to Fortra, a cybersecurity tech company based in Minnesota. I packed up my life in Los Angeles and have been calling Minneapolis home since 2022.
It’s been an exciting whirlwind of an adventure.