The Impact of Shared Culture in Mentorship
What happens when a seasoned Apple engineer and a bright-eyed UC Davis freshman bond over their shared Vietnamese heritage? I'll tell you: a mentorship like no other, where cultural understanding and personal experiences blend to create a nurturing and dynamic relationship. At the Reach Foundation, Vu and Jethan's journey is a shining example of how shared backgrounds can amplify the impact of mentorship, leading to both academic success and a lasting friendship.
Vu and Jethan have been paired together for almost two years, beginning during Jethan's senior year of high school. Their weekly meetings allowed them to navigate FAFSA deadlines, college applications, and the process of selecting a major. Since Jethan began college, their focus has shifted to steps for preparing for internships, always emphasizing the importance of staying ahead.
Vu's experience as a fellow first-generation college student has been particularly valuable. He understands the challenges Jethan faces, especially the lack of familial knowledge about higher education. "When I went to college, I felt behind everyone else," Vu remembers. "But then I realized that college levels the playing field. Hard work counts a lot more than family background." Vu's journey from the child of refugee parents, to an undergraduate at MIT, PhD at Stanford, and finally to an engineer at Apple has shown Jethan that with determination, high goals are attainable regardless of one's background. Seeing someone like him achieve success is incredibly inspiring for Jethan.
Their relationship thrives beyond the shared experience of being first-generation college students; it also includes shared traditions and values. Both celebrate similar holidays, enjoy the same foods, and understand the nuances of Vietnamese culture. "When we finally met in person, it was funny deciding where in San Jose to eat," Jethan laughs. "We ended up bonding over Vietnamese food." Now, the pair enjoys getting to know each other's personal lives, with Vu joking that Jethan acts as his therapist for the first few minutes of their mentor meetings every week.
For Vu, mentoring Jethan has been a rewarding way to give back to the Vietnamese community. Reflecting on his own journey from a first-generation college student to a professional at Apple, Vu finds mentoring fulfilling. He notes that the core of his success has always been helping people.
As Jethan finishes his freshman year at UC Davis, he feels optimistic about the future. Inspired by Vu's achievements, he dreams of a successful career in structural engineering or architecture. "In five years, I see myself on a beach, sipping from a coconut, with a million dollars," he jokes. But beneath the humor, there's a clear vision of hard work and ambition driving him toward his goals.
Vu and Jethan's relationship exemplifies the impact of shared background in mentorship. Their common background has not only strengthened their bond but also provided a foundation for Jethan's success. At the Reach Foundation, stories like theirs inspire us to continue our mission of connecting students with mentors who understand their journey and can guide them to achieve their dreams.
The power of this mentorship lies in the deep connection forged through shared experiences and cultural heritage. Vu and Jethan’s story is a testament to the fact that when mentors and mentees come from similar backgrounds, the support and guidance offered are profoundly enhanced. It’s not just about academic and professional success; it’s also about understanding and nurturing the whole person.
As we look to the future, the Reach Foundation remains committed to bridging the gap for first-generation college students. We aim to create more opportunities for individuals like Vu and Jethan to connect, share, and grow. By celebrating and leveraging shared heritage and experiences, we can cultivate a new generation of leaders who not only achieve personal success but also give back to their communities, creating a ripple effect of positive change.