Nghi Dang

• What does being a First-Generation College Graduate mean to you?

Being a First-Generation College Graduate is momentous to me because I have accomplished something I have long set my mind to. My first year of college was extremely hard because I struggled to not only find myself but also had a hard time figuring out what I was truly passionate about as a career choice. After three major changes and a mental/emotional breakthrough, I can finally say that I am on the right path to what I love to do and I am finally done taking the large step of getting there. Throughout college I had the opportunity to study abroad in 11 different countries, created a program to give back to my community, volunteered thousands of hours in a pharmacology lab, UCSD medical centers, and health conferences/screenings, and met hundreds of people that have had a profound impact on my life. I can now look back at college and be truly proud of how much I've grown as a person and know deep inside that I can accomplish anything I set my mind to.

• What is your proudest moment from your time at UCSD?

My proudest moment at UCSD was founding and chairing the Health Outreach Program for HMP3. My program works to provide low-income, first generation students with opportunities to gain awareness of the pathways to admission into the various fields of healthcare through the help of volunteers and hands on workshops. We work with The Preuss School UCSD, my alma mater, which allows me the opportunity to give back to my community.

• Who are the family members, friends or loved ones who have been most influential throughout your college journey? Are there any words of gratitude you would like to share with them?

My boyfriend and friends, especially my Preuss group, have been a huge support system for me throughout college. I cannot thank them enough for always being by my side. I am also grateful to my family for pushing me to become the person I am today. Lastly I am thankful for every person (HMP3, HOPE, HOP, GMS, MRC, Semester at Sea, and various classes) that have made a positive impact in my crazy journey throughout college.

• Who are the staff, faculty or mentors who have been most influential throughout your college journey? Are there any words of gratitude you would like to share with them?

Throughout my time at UCSD, I have had many impactful professors and mentors that have contributed to my success. I would like to specifically thank my HMP3 advisor Adele Savage and lab PI Nicole Purcell for being my mentors for over 4 years. They were extremely supportive in everything that I set my mind to and always cared for me. I will always remember their kind words and genuine advice.

• What do you plan or hope to do after graduating?

My short term goal is to work for any public health related organizations while I apply for my Masters for 2021. I aim to get a Master in Public Health and a Masters in Healthcare Administration. Once I finish my graduate education, I aim to work as a healthcare administrator for government organizations or hospitals and work my way up. My long term career goal is to work for the World Health Organization as a global health administrator or councilwoman.

Campus Affiliations

Campus Involvement

• Muir Residential Council - Finance Manager

• Gates Millennium Scholar

• HMP3 Board

• Health Opportunities Preparation & Empowerment (HOPE) Chair

• Health Outreach Program (HOP) Founder and Chair

• Purcell Lab

Student Retention & Success Programs

• Chancellor's Associates Scholars Program (CASP)

Cultural and Resource Centers

• APIMEDA (Asian Pacific Islander Middle Eastern Desi American) Program and Services