As a Vietnamese American woman, I rarely saw designers who looked like me and never considered graphic design as a career until college. I felt pressured to choose a more “practical” path, but in my freshman year, I fell in love with design. I struggled with confidence and self-doubt, but the BFA program pushed me to embrace failure and create anyway. I learned that great design isn’t about perfection but about growth, experimentation, and the courage to make mistakes.

I’m incredibly grateful for this program—for believing in me, challenging me, and giving me the tools to express my creativity. As someone on the quieter side, I haven’t always voiced my gratitude, but I deeply appreciate everyone who has been part of this journey. To my professors and classmates—thank you for your support and inspiration over the past two years. Your encouragement has meant more than I can say.