My name is Thien Phuc Dang, and I come from Vietnam. I am currently majoring in Computer Science at Santa Ana College in California. Moving to the United States has been one of the biggest changes in my life and also one of the most meaningful. My parents once ran a small business, but when it failed, they made a brave and painful decision to use all their remaining savings to send me abroad for education. They wanted me to have the opportunities they never had. Their sacrifice became my greatest motivation and also my greatest pressure. I cannot afford to fail because my future is not only mine—it is the future of my entire family. When I first arrived in the United States, I had to learn everything from the beginning: a new culture, a new education system, and a new language. I had no relatives or close friends here, and the loneliness often made me question my strength. But every time I felt uncertain, I reminded myself that my parents’ hopes were in my hands. That thought helped me stay focused, study harder, and keep going, even during the most difficult days. Through my studies, I discovered my passion for technology, especially in cybersecurity. The digital world connects billions of people, but it is also full of threats that can harm individuals and entire communities. I want to become a cybersecurity analyst who helps protect people’s data, privacy, and safety online. I believe this field is not just about computers or codes—it is about trust and responsibility. My goal is to use technology as a tool to make the world safer and more secure for everyone. In the long term, I hope to work for an organization that focuses on digital safety and innovation. I also want to create programs that teach young students, especially those from underprivileged backgrounds, about technology and cybersecurity. Many students like me grow up believing that success in technology is only for people with money or special access. I want to prove that passion, dedication, and education can open doors for anyone. Receiving this scholarship would be a huge step forward in my journey. It would relieve part of the financial burden that my parents and I carry, allowing me to concentrate on my studies and research. More importantly, it would give me encouragement and confidence to continue following my path. Knowing that there are people who believe in me would remind me that my hard work matters and that I am not walking this road alone. I want to make a positive impact on the world by using my education to protect others and to inspire those who come after me. I may come from a small family and a disadvantaged background, but I carry big dreams and a strong sense of purpose. Every project I complete, every class I take, and every challenge I overcome brings me closer to that goal. I believe that through technology, compassion, and determination, I can help build a safer and more connected world.

Being a first-generation student is both an honor and a responsibility that shapes every step of my journey. It means that I am the first in my family to walk a path my parents could only dream of. It means that when I sit in class, I carry not just my own hopes, but the hopes of my entire family. Coming from Vietnam, my life changed completely when I arrived in the United States to study Computer Science. My parents once owned a small business, but when it failed, they decided to invest everything they had left in me. They believed that sending me abroad would open new opportunities for our family. Their belief became my motivation, but it also became my greatest pressure. I know how hard they worked, and I know that failure is not an option for me. I have one chance to make this work, and I am determined to do it right. Being a first-generation student also means learning how to figure things out on my own. I had to navigate college systems, study plans, housing, and finances without much guidance. At times, I felt lost, homesick, and alone. I do not have relatives here, so my daily life is simple: go to class, work on assignments, and go home. There are nights when I question myself, wondering if I made the right choice, but I always remember my parents’ faces and how much they sacrificed to give me this opportunity. That memory always helps me stay focused. My dream is to become a cybersecurity analyst. I want to protect information and systems, and to contribute to making technology safer for everyone. I believe technology connects the world, and cybersecurity keeps that connection safe. My long-term goal is to build a stable career in the United States and eventually become a permanent resident so I can continue contributing to the field and to the community that welcomed me. This scholarship would mean more than just financial support. It would be a symbol of trust and encouragement. It would remind me that my hard work is recognized and that others believe in my potential, even when I doubt myself. Financially, it would ease the pressure on my parents and allow me to focus more on my studies instead of worrying about tuition and living costs. Emotionally, it would give me confidence and motivation to keep moving forward. Being a first-generation student is not just about being the first to attend college. It is about breaking barriers, creating a path for the next generation, and proving that dreams are possible, no matter where you come from. I may come from a small family with limited resources, but I carry big dreams, strong determination, and the will to make every sacrifice worth it.

My name is Thien Phuc Dang, and I am from Vietnam. I am currently studying Computer Science at Santa Ana College in the United States. Coming here to study has been one of the most challenging and meaningful experiences of my life. My parents once ran a small business, but when it failed, they used all their remaining savings to send me abroad for a better future. Their faith in me is the reason I work so hard every single day. In the future, I plan to specialize in cybersecurity because it combines my passion for technology with my desire to protect others. The world relies heavily on digital systems, and I want to play a part in keeping those systems safe. After finishing my associate degree, I plan to apply for Optional Practical Training to gain experience in the technology field. Later, I will transfer to a university to complete my bachelor’s degree and continue building my knowledge and skills. My goal is to find a professional position where I can contribute to the cybersecurity industry, continue learning, and grow as both a professional and a person. If possible, I hope to find a company that will sponsor me so I can keep working in the United States. If not, I will continue to graduate school to strengthen my qualifications. Living in a new country has not been easy. I have faced loneliness, homesickness, and cultural differences. Without family or close friends nearby, most of my time is spent studying, working, and completing assignments alone. Sometimes I feel uncertain about my English skills, especially when I compare myself with native speakers. However, I always remind myself why I am here and who I am doing this for. My parents’ sacrifices inspire me to keep moving forward, no matter how difficult things become. This scholarship would help me in more ways than one. It would ease my financial burden and allow me to focus fully on my education instead of worrying about tuition and living costs. More importantly, it would give me a sense of encouragement and remind me that my hard work is recognized. I would feel more confident about my decisions and my future. Receiving this support would motivate me to keep improving, to give my best in every class, and to continue building a path toward my goals. Education is the foundation of everything I want to achieve. With this scholarship, I can continue developing my skills, pursue my dream career in cybersecurity, and make my parents proud of the choice they made to believe in me. I come from a humble background, but I have a strong determination to turn challenges into opportunities. Every step I take in this journey brings me closer to the life and future I have always hoped for.

My name is Thien Phuc Dang, and I come from Vietnam. I am currently a junior majoring in Computer Science at Santa Ana College in the United States. Moving abroad has been one of the most transformative decisions of my life. It was not just a change in geography, but a complete shift in lifestyle, culture, and responsibility. My parents invested their final savings into my education here, trusting that I would turn this opportunity into a brighter future. That trust has been the foundation of my motivation. After completing my associate degree, I plan to apply for OPT (Optional Practical Training) for one year to gain real-world experience in the technology field. My next goal is to transfer to a university to complete my bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, and later, I intend to apply for another two-year OPT to deepen my practical skills in cybersecurity and software development. Ultimately, I hope to find a company willing to sponsor me so I can continue my professional journey in the U.S. If sponsorship doesn’t work out immediately, I plan to pursue a master’s degree to strengthen both my knowledge and opportunities. My long-term goal is to become a cybersecurity analyst—someone who helps protect individuals and organizations from online threats—and to build a stable career that allows me to remain in the United States and contribute to this country’s growing tech industry. My first language is Vietnamese, but I also speak English and Chinese. Being bilingual—and even trilingual—has shaped the way I think, learn, and connect with people. It allows me to bridge cultural gaps and communicate with people from very different backgrounds. I believe language is more than just words; it’s a key that opens doors to new perspectives and understanding. In a diverse field like technology, where teamwork and collaboration are essential, this ability to adapt and understand multiple cultures has been a valuable strength. However, being bilingual also comes with challenges. English is not my native language, and I sometimes struggle with pronunciation and confidence when speaking in front of others, especially native speakers. There are moments when I hesitate to speak up in class discussions, fearing my accent or grammar might make me sound less fluent. I have also faced moments of subtle discrimination—small reminders that being Asian or having an accent can sometimes lead others to underestimate me. Yet, those experiences have only made me stronger. They remind me to keep improving, to let my actions and achievements speak louder than any accent. Living and studying in the U.S. has taught me independence, resilience, and the importance of self-belief. Every step I take here is a step not only for myself but for my family back home, who have placed all their hope in me. I may come from a small corner of Vietnam, but my dreams reach far beyond borders. And through hard work, education, and determination, I believe I can make them real.

For me, the American Dream means having the chance to build a better future through hard work, education, and determination. It is about coming to the United States with hope, learning new things, and using those opportunities to create a meaningful life. The American Dream is not just about success or money—it is about being able to live freely, grow as a person, and one day feel that I truly belong in the place I have worked so hard to call home. Coming to the United States as a student, I quickly realized that this dream is not easy to achieve. Many people talk about success as if it happens overnight, but I’ve learned that every step takes effort and sacrifice. For undocumented students, it takes even more. We have to work harder, look for different ways to support ourselves, and stay strong even when opportunities seem limited. But that’s also what makes the American Dream powerful—it pushes us to stay strong and never give up. In my own journey, education has been the main path toward my American Dream. Studying in the U.S. has given me a chance to grow, learn about technology and science, and connect with people from many different backgrounds. Even though being an international and undocumented student can be stressful at times, I try to focus on the purpose behind my struggles. I remind myself that everything I’m doing now—every late night studying, every job I take, every volunteering activity I do—brings me one step closer to my goals. For me, the American Dream also means helping others along the way. I have learned from my family and culture that success has no real meaning if you do not share it. That is why I volunteer in my school’s academic computing lab and help other students as a math tutor. When I see someone finally understand a problem or gain confidence in their learning, I feel proud. It reminds me that the American Dream is not only about what I can achieve for myself, but also how I can make a difference in other people’s lives. In the future, I want to use my education in computer science and mathematics to contribute to the field of cybersecurity and help protect people’s digital safety. I hope that through my work, I can build a safer online environment where people can trust technology again. Reaching this goal would not only represent my personal success but also the true meaning of the American Dream—using what I have learned to create something positive for others. This scholarship would help me continue my education and stay focused on my goals. As someone who must work hard to afford college, financial support means more time to study and to serve my community. The American Dream is not about having everything—it’s about having the courage to keep going despite challenges. I believe that with persistence, kindness, and hope, I can turn my dream into reality and help others do the same.

My decision to pursue education at a community college is shaped by my life experiences and my family’s circumstances. Growing up, my family faced many financial challenges, and eventually, our family business had to close. I became aware early on that I would need to work hard to create opportunities for myself. I am the only hope in my household to achieve higher education, and my parents have invested all their resources and trust in me. Their sacrifices and support have motivated me to take my studies seriously and to make the most of every opportunity, knowing that my success will honor their dedication. Community college offered me an accessible and supportive path to begin my higher education journey. It allows me to build a strong academic foundation while exploring my interests and preparing to transfer to a university. I am focused on learning computer science, developing technical skills, and challenging myself through coding practice and competitions such as hackathons and Google Kickstart. These experiences are helping me gain practical knowledge and broaden my perspective, preparing me for my long-term career goals. My future educational goals are to earn a bachelor’s degree in computer science, secure internships to gain real-world experience, pursue a master’s degree, and eventually work as a cybersecurity analyst. Beyond my professional career, I aspire to start and run my own cybersecurity business, helping individuals and companies protect themselves from digital threats. Attending community college has allowed me to take the first steps toward these goals while growing academically, professionally, and personally.

Being a first-generation college student has been a powerful source of motivation throughout my academic journey. Knowing that I am the first in my family to pursue higher education makes me feel a strong sense of responsibility and determination. I cannot give up because my family has always supported me and sacrificed to provide me with opportunities they never had. Their belief in me is the driving force that pushes me to work harder, stay focused, and aim higher in my studies and future career. Being a first-generation student also gives me the chance to explore a world I never experienced before. College allows me to meet people from diverse backgrounds, learn from different perspectives, and build connections that broaden my understanding of the world. These experiences inspire me to think creatively and adaptively, qualities that are essential in the field of cybersecurity. My ultimate goal is to become a cybersecurity analyst, and being a first-generation student has shaped the way I approach this path. I am committed to gaining knowledge, developing technical skills, and learning from every opportunity to ensure I can contribute meaningfully to the field. This journey is not only about achieving personal success but also about setting an example for others in my family and community, showing that dedication and perseverance can overcome any obstacle.

Growing up in a low-income, single-parent household taught me the value of perseverance and hard work. From an early age, I learned to push myself not just for personal success, but for my family and my future. Moving to the United States for my education has broadened my perspective, showing me opportunities I never imagined. I am actively pursuing my goals in computer science by practicing coding every day, learning languages like Python, Java, HTML, and CSS, and exploring new concepts through YouTube tutorials. I participate in competitions such as hackathons and Google Kickstart to challenge myself and gain practical experience. I plan to use my life experience and skills to create technology solutions that can positively impact my community and protect others, especially in cybersecurity, by sharing knowledge and inspiring others to pursue STEM fields regardless of their background.

I believe I deserve this scholarship because I am fully committed to using my education in computer science to create a positive impact. As an international student at Santa Ana College, I have faced many challenges such as adapting to a new country, learning environment, and language, but I have stayed focused on my goals. My dream is to earn a bachelor’s and master’s degree in computer science, specialize in cybersecurity, and eventually build my own company that helps protect people and small businesses from online threats. What gives me an advantage is my strong determination, adaptability, and dedication to improving every day. I am not studying only for myself but also to develop technology that keeps others safe in the digital world. This scholarship would ease my financial challenges and allow me to concentrate more on learning and growing in my field. With this support, I will continue to work hard toward becoming a skilled cybersecurity professional who contributes to a safer and smarter future.

My area of focus in school is computer science. I have always been fascinated by how technology continues to shape our modern world and how computers can solve complex problems that humans could never solve alone. What draws me to computer science is the perfect balance between logic and creativity. Every program, algorithm, or system begins as an idea, and with the right knowledge, it can grow into something that changes people’s lives. Through studying computer science, I want to build a strong foundation in programming, data analysis, and problem-solving so that I can use technology to make the world safer and more connected. My short-term goal is to earn my bachelor’s degree in computer science while maintaining excellent academic standing. I plan to make the most of every opportunity, including joining research projects, participating in tech clubs, and seeking internships related to cybersecurity. Cybersecurity fascinates me because it is a field that combines technology, logic, and ethics. It is not only about protecting computer systems; it is about protecting people, their privacy, and the information they trust the digital world with. Every day, cyberattacks affect millions of people and organizations, and I want to be part of the effort to prevent these threats. After completing my bachelor’s degree, I plan to pursue a master’s degree in computer science with a concentration in cybersecurity. At the graduate level, I want to explore advanced topics such as ethical hacking, cryptography, digital forensics, and artificial intelligence security. I believe that as technology continues to grow, cybersecurity will become even more essential in every field, from healthcare to finance to national defense. My goal is to become a cybersecurity analyst or engineer who can detect and prevent cyberattacks, design secure networks, and help organizations stay protected against modern digital threats. In the long term, I hope to start my own cybersecurity company. My vision is to create a business that offers affordable protection and training for small and medium-sized companies that cannot afford large-scale cybersecurity services. Many businesses lose their valuable data and customer trust because they lack proper security, and I want to change that. My company would not only provide technical protection but also help educate people about online safety and data privacy. I want to build a team of passionate individuals who share my vision of making technology safer for everyone. Beyond my career goals, I plan to continue learning throughout my life. Technology never stops changing, and to succeed in this field, I must stay curious and adaptable. My dream is to use my knowledge and leadership to make a positive impact on society. Through education, hard work, and determination, I believe I can achieve my goals and inspire others to do the same.

I love math because it is the language that connects everything in the modern world. Whether in science, technology, or business, math plays an important role in helping us understand and improve the world around us. From calculating data to designing algorithms in computer science, math provides the logic and structure that make innovation possible. To me, math is not just about numbers or formulas. It shows how our minds work and how far we can go when facing a challenge. When I study math, I test both my limits and my creativity. Some problems require careful memorization and precision, while others invite me to think in new ways and discover surprising connections. That balance between logical thinking and imagination is what makes math so inspiring and meaningful to me. I also love how math connects people everywhere. No matter where someone is from or what language they speak, the principles of math remain the same. It is a universal language that brings people together through shared understanding and curiosity. Learning math helps me think deeply, solve problems, and connect with others. These skills will continue to guide me as I pursue my future in computer science and in life.

One project that I am especially passionate about was helping my father’s small jewelry business adapt to the digital world. My father has always been talented at creating and selling gold and platinum jewelry, but his business relied almost entirely on local customers and word of mouth. He had little knowledge of computers, websites, or social media, and as a result many potential customers never had the chance to see his work. Because I have always been interested in technology, I decided to take on the challenge of helping him bring his business online. I began by experimenting with social media platforms. I photographed products, recorded short promotional videos, and used free editing software to make the content more appealing. At the same time, I tested different captions, layouts, and posting schedules to learn what attracted the most attention. This process felt like tinkering with a program: I would change one small variable, study the results, and refine the approach until I found something that worked. To expand even further, I worked on improving a simple website for the shop. I updated the product catalog, rewrote descriptions so customers could clearly understand each item, and organized the layout to make browsing easier. At first, these changes felt minor, but soon they produced visible results. Customers started leaving comments, asking questions, and even visiting the store after finding it online. My father was surprised to see how quickly technology could connect his work with a wider audience. What delighted me most was not just the increase in customers, but the look of pride on my father’s face. He realized that technology could open new doors for his business, and I was proud that my skills had made that possible. This project showed me that technology is not only about coding or machines—it is about solving problems and helping people. Through this experience, I discovered how much I enjoy creating solutions, testing ideas, and learning through experimentation. It strengthened my passion for computer science and my goal of becoming a software engineer or cybersecurity professional. I want to build applications that make everyday life easier and safer while also protecting important data from digital threats. Technology inspires me because it is a field of constant growth, endless creativity, and limitless potential. Every project is a chance to improve something and make an impact. Like Chadwick D. McNab, I hope to dedicate my career to growth, innovation, and helping others achieve their best through technology.

One of the most memorable times I delighted others with my tinkering skills was when I helped my father’s small jewelry business grow by bringing it online. My father sells gold and platinum jewelry, but most of his customers were local walk-ins. He did not know how to use social media or technology for marketing, which meant many people who might have loved his products never had a chance to see them. As someone who enjoys computers, coding, and tinkering with digital tools, I decided to help him in my own way. I started by experimenting with social media platforms, treating them like small “hacks” I could test and improve. I created product photos and short videos, then used free editing software to enhance them and make them more eye-catching. I tested different captions and posting times, carefully paying attention to which posts attracted more views and interactions. To me, this process felt very similar to debugging or writing code: I made a change, observed the results, and refined the approach. I also learned some basic website customization, which allowed me to update product descriptions, improve the product catalog, and make it easier for customers to browse. At first, these seemed like small details, but I quickly noticed that customers were responding positively. Some commented online that they appreciated the clearer descriptions and more professional look. Others even visited the shop in person and told my father that they had discovered the store through the posts I created. The moment that delighted me most was seeing my father’s reaction. He had always relied on traditional word-of-mouth marketing, so when he realized that people were finding his business through technology, he was both surprised and proud. What made me happiest was not just improving sales, but showing him how digital tools could expand opportunities and connect with people in ways he had never imagined. This experience reinforced why I love hacking and tinkering: it is about experimenting, solving problems, and creating solutions that make a real difference for others. Whether I am optimizing a social media strategy, writing code for a project, or troubleshooting a system, I enjoy the process of learning through trial and error and using my curiosity to help people. Delighting others through technology motivates me to keep exploring and growing in computer science, because every “hack” is an opportunity to brighten someone’s day and create lasting impact.

Mental health has been one of the biggest challenges in my life, especially in the form of sleep deprivation and episodes of sleep paralysis. For me, it often feels as if a heavy shadow presses down on me while I am asleep, leaving me unable to move or wake up easily. Even though I can sense what is happening around me, I have to fight my way out of it before I finally wake up, exhausted and unsettled. Sometimes this happens repeatedly within minutes, which makes rest difficult and frightening. The only relief I have found comes from listening to calming sounds, like music or a movie, or washing my face before lying down again. Living with this condition has greatly influenced the way I see myself and the world. At first, I felt fear and loneliness, because it seemed like I was fighting something invisible that no one else could understand. Over time, however, these experiences taught me that mental health struggles are real, and that it is important to acknowledge them rather than hide them. I have developed a stronger belief in resilience and self-care, because even though I cannot always control when these episodes occur, I can control how I prepare myself, how I recover, and how I keep moving forward. My mental health challenges have also shaped the way I build relationships. Because I know what it feels like to struggle alone, I value compassion and understanding much more deeply. I have become someone who listens to others carefully and encourages them to share their feelings without fear of judgment. This has helped me create stronger bonds with friends, family, and classmates, and I believe it will also help me as a future professional who works on teams and collaborates to solve complex problems. Finally, these experiences have directly influenced my career aspirations in computer science. I want to become a software engineer or work in cybersecurity, but my motivation is not only the fascination I have with technology. I also see technology as a tool that can support mental well-being. Whether it is through applications that provide comfort, platforms that encourage community, or systems that keep people’s data safe, I want to create technology that helps people feel secure, supported, and less alone. My challenges with mental health may have been difficult, but they have also given me a clear sense of purpose and determination to use my skills to make a positive difference.

How did you get interested in pursuing a computer science degree? My interest in computer science began with my love for working with computers—both hardware and software. I enjoy exploring how technology works, from learning different programming languages to understanding how systems interact. To me, learning a programming language is like learning a new foreign language such as French or German: it opens a door to new ways of thinking and problem-solving. The more I code and experiment with software, the more fascinated I become with the power of computers to create, connect, and solve real-world problems. What is your goal or dream job after receiving your degree? After completing my degree, my dream is to become a software engineer or pursue a career in cybersecurity. As a software engineer, I want to design and develop applications that make people’s lives easier and more efficient. At the same time, I am also very drawn to cybersecurity because protecting data and preventing cyber threats is one of the most important challenges in today’s world. Whether through building software or securing systems, I want to use my skills to contribute to a safer, smarter digital future. Why do you feel you are the best candidate for receiving this scholarship? I believe this scholarship would give me the motivation and support I need to reach my goals. Coming from a background where financial challenges can limit opportunities, this scholarship would help ease the economic burden of my studies and allow me to fully dedicate myself to learning and growing in computer science. I don’t think of myself as "the best" candidate, because many students are working hard toward their dreams, but I do believe I am a strong candidate because of my passion, determination, and willingness to keep learning and improving. With this scholarship, I can thrive academically and professionally, and in the future, I hope to give back by using my skills to help others.

I am an international student from Vietnam, currently pursuing a Computer Science major at Santa Ana College. Studying in the United States has opened opportunities for me to learn at a higher level, gain valuable experiences, and prepare for a future career where I can create a meaningful impact. My ultimate goal is to earn a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, gain internship experience in the technology industry, and then continue on to a master’s degree. With this foundation, I plan to return to Vietnam and dedicate myself to the field of cybersecurity, an area that is critically important but still underdeveloped in my home country. Vietnam is growing rapidly in terms of technology and internet usage, but the country is also facing major cybersecurity challenges. Many businesses and government systems lack the resources and trained experts needed to protect against rising cyber threats. Every year, more black-hat hackers target Vietnamese networks, leading to data breaches, scams, and financial losses that affect both individuals and organizations. While Vietnam has made some progress, the field of cybersecurity remains scarce and underfunded, and this weakness makes the country highly vulnerable. I believe that with the education and skills I acquire in the United States, I can help fill this gap and strengthen Vietnam’s digital security. My plan is to apply what I have learned abroad to build stronger cybersecurity defenses in Vietnam. I want to develop secure systems, create solutions that protect sensitive data, and help businesses and government agencies respond more effectively to cyberattacks. However, my vision is not just about solving technical problems on my own. I also hope to become a teacher and mentor for younger students in Vietnam who are interested in technology but lack access to advanced training. By sharing my knowledge, I can help grow a new generation of skilled cybersecurity professionals who will continue to improve our country’s digital resilience. In addition to working in cybersecurity directly, I also dream of starting or joining projects that raise public awareness about online safety. Many internet users in Vietnam do not fully understand the dangers of phishing, scams, or unsafe digital practices, which makes them easy targets. Through workshops, outreach programs, or even school partnerships, I want to spread knowledge that helps people protect themselves and their communities online. Strengthening cybersecurity in Vietnam is not only about advanced technology; it is also about building awareness and responsibility across society. My long-term career goal is to contribute to Vietnam’s digital growth by making it safer, more reliable, and better prepared for the future. Technology is already changing the way people work, communicate, and live, and this trend will only continue. If Vietnam cannot secure its digital infrastructure, it risks losing trust and opportunities in the global digital economy. I want to be part of the solution by combining the world-class education I receive in the U.S. with my determination to serve my home country. This scholarship would support me as I continue on this path. As an international student, I face financial challenges in pursuing my degree, but I am motivated by my vision of using education to make a difference. With support, I can stay focused on my studies, build strong skills in computer science and cybersecurity, and eventually return to Vietnam with the knowledge and passion to create a safer digital future for my country.

My best friend is named Tai Tran, and I can honestly say he is the most important person in my college journey. We are both Vietnamese F1-visa students studying computer science, and we first met during our very first semester at Santa Ana College. At that time, I was nervous, alone in a new country, and uncertain about how I would manage the heavy responsibilities of school, family expectations, and my future. Meeting Tai changed everything for me, because he has been my strongest support system and truly the definition of what a best friend should be. One reason Tai is my best friend is because we share so much in common, not just in background but also in goals. Both of us come from families that sacrificed everything to give us the chance to study in the U.S., and we both carry the pressure of building a brighter future for our families. That responsibility can sometimes feel overwhelming, but having someone who fully understands my struggles makes it less lonely. We both want to become U.S. citizens one day, not only to secure our futures but also to give back to the country that gave us this opportunity. We constantly remind each other why we are working so hard, and that shared dream bonds us in a deep way. Another reason is that Tai is always there to help me, and I am always there to help him. We study together for math, physics, and computer science, and we motivate each other when one of us feels like giving up. There have been many late nights in the library where we pushed each other to keep going, even when we were tired. For example, during one computer science project, I struggled for days trying to fix a coding problem. I was frustrated and ready to quit, but Tai sat next to me for hours, testing ideas and encouraging me until we finally solved it. That moment showed me his loyalty and patience, and I realized that I could always count on him. Our friendship is not only about academics. We laugh together, share meals, and talk about life. Since we are both far from our families in Vietnam, we have almost become like family to each other. When holidays come and we cannot fly home, we celebrate together, cook Vietnamese food, and make the best of the situation. These moments remind me that true friendship is not about having fun only during easy times but also about standing together through the hard ones. I believe no one else could be a better best friend to me than Tai. He understands my culture, my struggles, and my dreams in a way that no one else can. He is not just my classmate or study partner—he is the person who makes me stronger, more determined, and more hopeful. Friendship like this is rare, and I feel lucky every day to have him in my life.