Ny Ny Le
Graduation year: 2018
Majors: Business administration-management, psychology
Activities: Zeta Phi Kappa sorority, Asian Student Organization, Vietnamese Student Association, Global Engagement Team, Relay for Life
Internships: Marketing internships at Fresh Films and Media Link, Inc. in Rock Island; human resources internship at Collaborate HR in Australia
Post-grad plans: Work in the business field, then apply for an MBA program
Why Augustana?
I knew that I wanted to attend a small, liberal arts college, which would allow me to have better interactions with my professors and advisors inside and outside of classes. I chose Augie for that reason, in addition to its generous financial package, Augie Choice and the beautiful campus.
Are you where you thought you’d be when you first came to campus?
Yes and no. I knew that I wanted to be a businessperson like my mom, so I was determined to pursue a degree in business administration. I stuck with the major, but I never expected that I would also major in psychology, a subject that is not common in Vietnam at all. In addition, Augustana has provided me with opportunities to become a well-rounded person. For example, the Art of Listening class that I took in my first year inspired me to take harp lessons. I had never seen a harp in real life before coming to Augie, let alone played one. Who would’ve thought that I would perform harp recitals during my time at Augie?
Who helped you get to where you are now?
My family, especially my mom, has been my biggest support system even when I’m so far away from home. In addition, I wouldn’t be able to become the person I am today without the help of my professors, my academic and career advisors, my supervisors and my friends.
Especially, I would like to thank my business advisor, Mamata Marmé, who has helped me plan my courses thoroughly despite my constant changes in interests, and has given me valuable advice on my future career. My psychology advisor, Dr. Rose, has helped me with not only my academic achievements, but also my personal problems by being such a good listener and a caring advisor. I am grateful for Dr. Freund, my harp professor, who inspired me to play harp.
I would also like to thank my supervisor, Anne Earel, for her guidance and support, for believing in me and showing me that perseverance pays off.
Peak experience?
It’s so hard to pick just one, but I would go with my London fall term study away experience. I spent 10 weeks in London taking classes in economics, theatre and sociology, which gave me a good understanding of the U.K., its economy, culture and Brexit.
The theatre class interested me a great deal, which, again, was not something I’d ever tried before. Each week, I went to see a different play as a requirement for the class. Then we would have discussions coupled with some acting activities in the class. I’m still amazed by the fact that my first theatre experience was at the well-known Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre.
During the term, I also had the chance to visit Stonehenge and to solo travel to Edinburgh, Scotland.
What surprised you?
I’m surprised that I could do well in both the sciences (i.e., psychology, astronomy) and the arts (i.e., harp, theatre), and that I could serve as the president of a campus club.
How did you use Augie Choice?
I used it for my Australia internship program. I was a human resources intern at Collaborate HR in Sydney, Australia. The experience was a stepping stone for my business career as I was equipped with knowledge about different aspects of the company and was able to compare the way people in different countries do business.
What will you miss the most?
I will miss the beautiful campus and the people here. I will miss my friends, sorority sisters, professors and supervisors, who have been a great support system and helped me become a better version of myself.
Advice for the Class of 2022?
Do not hesitate to try things you’ve never done before because you never know where the experiences are going to lead you.
“So many of Ny Ny's activities at Augustana have focused on serving and helping others in our community. She is always eager to embrace new opportunities and make personal connections. As a research help desk student worker in the library, Ny Ny specializes in making students feel comfortable and welcomed; it can be hard for students to take that first step and ask for help, but Ny Ny's warmth and ease help them overcome that barrier. We will miss her smile and her enthusiasm!”