A little about me: I moved to Minnesota eight years ago to pursue a master's degree in higher education. Since then, I have worked primarily as an academic advisor at various institutions across the Twin Cities; and my past five years were spent at the University of Minnesota. I am most passionate about supporting marginalized students and challenging the norms of higher education practices. I really enjoy the learning process and reflect often on the lived experiences of students and their identities. Outside of work, you can often find me reading a book, catching up on a sitcom, or enjoying the outdoors.
Education:
- Bachelor of Arts, History, Colorado State University
- Master of Arts, Educational Leadership and Policy Development in Higher Education, University of Minnesota
Important social identities: I identify as a Hmong, Asian-American woman. I was a first-generation and low-income college student.
My advice to students starting their first semester of college: Be open to new opportunities including courses/subjects you are unfamiliar with. Find study or support groups and make time for the things you enjoy.
My interests/hobbies:
- Reading
- Cross-stitching
- Hiking and the outdoors in general
While in college, I experienced... growth. I learned a lot of new things including how to take better notes and study. I also learned about careers that I had never heard of before.
My coaching mindset is... I believe in being student-centered and tackling tasks one step at a time. In college, students will have a variety of goals, both long- and short-term, that are important. I like to focus on the present and how to connect the things happening right now, with future goals.
Contact Mai: [email protected] | (612) 625-3862