Austin Nguyen is a graduate of De Anza High School who currently attends San Jose State University. Austin is majoring in Electrical Engineering.

Q: Tell us a little bit about yourself. Is there anything in particular that motivates you as you go through college and prepare yourself for a career?

A:  Even though I’m a big homebody, I really enjoy hanging out with friends and going out to experience new things. This motivation has propelled me to expand my horizons and try new things, whether it’s activities related to my major or not. If there’s people I enjoy being around with me, even better!

Q: When did you first realize that you were college-bound?

A: Going to college has been my goal ever since I was a kid. I am pursuing the dream of getting a degree and pursuing the field I want to work in.

Q: How has Richmond Promise played a role in your education?

A: Richmond Promise has provided me with a multitude of very helpful resources, including workshops and even opportunities to make connections. They have also helped me fund my college journey. I am very grateful for what they have done to help me so far!

Q: Why did you choose to apply for RP Leads, and what are you hoping to take from the experience?

A: I saw applying to RP Leads as a major opportunity I would be very disappointed in myself if I didn’t apply to. I saw that RP Leads could help build my skills, my mindset, and my connections in order to succeed further down the line in my actual career. I hope to have fun and make lifelong memories that’ll stick with me throughout the rest of my life.

Q: What do you want to contribute to Richmond and/or the world?

A:  I’m really interested in working on public transportation such as BART, so if I got the opportunity, I would help make that system better. If I were hired in other places with high speed rail, that would be awesome too!

Q: How has your current college experience gone, and what has been the best part?

A:  So far, my college experience has been great! I’ve met so many new and amazing people and had so many new and interesting experiences. The best part for me has been meeting so many new people and learning about their lives and what they plan to do after college.

Q: What challenges have you overcome to get to where you are today?

A: For most of my life, I was pretty unmotivated and only really got up to do mandatory assignments and keep my grades at a high level. Coupled with my drive to do everything to the best of my ability, I was under a lot of self-created stress and pressure.

Q: What advice would you give to a first-year Richmond Promise Scholar who is just heading off to a new college or CTE program?

A:  Learn your campus and be open to meeting new people. Put yourself out there!

Q: What are you looking forward to doing after finishing school?

A: I’m looking forward to becoming more independent and obtaining specialized knowledge for whatever role I end up in!