Editor’s Note — This Q&A is part of a weekly conversation series that is celebrating Asian and Pacific Islander Desi American Heritage Month on the University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s Medium page. The series will feature Huskers who are making impacts on campus and look to maintain that momentum in future careers. Learn more about APIDA Heritage Month coverage in Nebraska Today.
Kaitlyn Nguyenduy is a child, youth and family studies major from Omaha, Nebraska. Through her leadership positions, she’s making an impact on campus.
You’re an Emerging Leaders Scholar. Talk a little bit about your experience with the program.
They really showed me the ropes of what to do for college. Being a first-generation student I didn’t know much when it came to college stuff so I’m glad to have gone though this program as they guided me through my first semester on campus.
How did joining the Asian Student Union change your college experience for the better?
Joining ASU has allowed me to gain so many experiences and meet people that have become my lifetime friends! I was able to find a community of people who shared similar experiences as me and allowed me to learn more about my own Asian identity. I’ve gained so many memories on campus through ASU and that will always have a special place in my heart!
Is there any favorite memory or anything you’re particularly proud of during your time as ASU president — or something you’re still hoping to accomplish?
Something that I was proud of during my time in ASU was being able to lead the Lunar New Year events. I’m so glad to have had the opportunity to share my own and others’ cultures/traditions to students on campus. Being able to see everyone enjoy the things I grew up seeing during LYN was so fun to see. I hope to continue this and more events similar to this next year!
You’re a pre-health major. What originally drew you to working in healthcare and is there anything, in particular, you’re passionate about in the industry?
I’ve always had a passion for helping others, cheesy sounding I know but it makes me really happy when I’m able to see someone smile from the help I was able to provide them. I’m still discovering what is the right fit for me but I would love to work where I can provide hands-on assistance or personal contact with people!
What do you hope to accomplish in your lifetime?
I want to make the most of any opportunities that are given to me and continue being the best version of myself! Life is full of unexpected encounters so I just want to know that I tried my best. I would love to be able to be in a place where I can continue helping others. I would also love to travel the world. One of my goals is to travel to all 50 states before 50. Got to make life an adventure!
What or who inspires you?
My sorority sisters are truly my source of inspiration! They push me to become a better version of myself and has created a sense of home for me on campus! Each of them showed me what it means to be a dedicated female leader. My biggest support group — I love you all ❤.
What is your advice for other students looking to make an impact on or off-campus?
Don’t be afraid to take the first step! There’s most likely someone who’s around that will have the same passion as you too so make your mark. UNL has so many organizations that can be your source of home! I found mine through Delta Phi Lambda and ASU and I hope that we can be that source for you too!
