Anh Nguyen has faced a number of challenges, but she has risen above them with hard work, dedication, and focus.
“Anh’s transition from Vietnam to the States has been the most challenging for her, but you will never know from her bubbling personality,” said Principal Jerome Leathers, her principal at Southern School of Energy and Sustainability. “Not being able to speak English upon her arrival in 2015, to now being fluent and thriving in and outside of the classroom. She has always challenged herself through her academics and has shown determination and dedication.”
Nguyen also cited learning through the pandemic, her stepfather’s fight with cancer, and helping take care of her sister when her mother had to return to work as significant challenges in high school.
“I’ve emerged with a newfound sense of maturity, equipped with enhanced time management skills and a resilient mindset that allows me to find the silver lining in any negative situation,” Nguyen said.
Nguyen’s goal is to get a nursing degree from UNC Chapel Hill, then a Doctor in Nursing Practice, to become a pediatric oncology nurse practitioner.
“I am passionate about contributing to the advancement of medical knowledge and treatment options through research,” Nguyen said.