Finding Purpose Through Community

The summer of 2018 marked a new chapter in my life. I packed up everything I knew in Taiwan and permanently relocated to the Bay Area. It was a big transition that came with significant challenges, particularly because English was not my first language. The cultural and linguistic adjustments were daunting, and I vividly recall the struggles I faced in my first few years as I navigated American life. Fortunately, I had access to valuable resources that helped me succeed. However, this privilege led me to wonder, how are other first-generation students managing similar challenges?

In 2021, I started my college journey at San Jose State University, pursuing a degree in business administration with a concentration in marketing. I quickly realized the importance of career development beyond academics. From the moment I stepped on campus, I was advised to take the initiative by securing internships early, gaining leadership experience through student organizations, and building a strong professional network. I took this advice to heart and began applying for internships as a sophomore. While I became comfortable with coffee chats and informational interviews, I struggled to establish meaningful, long-term connections with the professionals I met.

That changed during my junior year when I was selected for a scholarship trip sponsored by The LAGRANT Foundation, led by Mr. Kim Hunter. To say that this experience was life-changing would be an understatement. The program, designed to advance diversity in marketing, communications, and PR, introduced me to industry leaders who were deeply committed to empowering the next generation of professionals. What struck me most was how these leaders cultivated lifelong relationships beyond the workplace. Their passion for mentorship and their willingness to give back to aspiring professionals resonated with me deeply.

This experience not only helped me develop confidence in my networking abilities but also led me to discover a greater purpose—to inspire and uplift future talent. Motivated by this realization, I began sharing my career journey and professional insights on LinkedIn. By posting daily, I reached over 150,000 people in less than a year and helped numerous students secure their dream roles.

Later, during the National Millennial and Gen Z Community (NMGZ) San Francisco trip, I had the privilege of connecting with like-minded, driven individuals who share a vision of reshaping the industry. I left feeling deeply inspired by the collective efforts to bridge the gap between students and the workforce, fostering a community where aspiring professionals are supported and empowered.

Reflecting on these experiences, I realized that success is not just about individual achievement but about lifting others along the way. The relationships we build, the knowledge we share, and the opportunities we create for future generations define the true impact of our careers.