laura trinh

(she/her/hers)

Candidate for External Vice president

General Questions

A lot of people have the misconception that the EVP role is strictly CORR/UNAVSA-related duties. How do you intend to build a relationship with other organizations as well as the non-VSA community?

To me, I see it just as similar as trying to put forth effort to become someone’s friend. All of the aspects that you can think of in an ideal relationship, we would need to do the same to build a relationship with other organizations. I intend on making sure that we do what we say between other organizations and the non-VSA community. I would like us to be able to collaborate with many other organizations and make a mark in the community as well. I do believe that there’s a lot of work that needs to be done to bridge those gaps, but I pledge to do as much as I can to be able to make a good rapport for ourselves for future endeavors.

What is your view on VSA nationally, in terms of UNAVSA?

UNAVSA is a great way to learn more in-depth on what’s happening around the North American Vietnamese community. Think of UNAVSA as a larger version of your local VSA. Though UNAVSA offers more resources, education and social awareness on a national level. Their cabinets cover topics like civic engagement, community safety, philanthropy, etc. It opens doors to more opportunities and connections than you could imagine.

How do you view your responsibilities?

In general, responsibilities to me is just another way for me to enhance my assets while doing something i’m passionate about. It is said that I tend to take on a lot of tasks, but I enjoy always having something to do. Responsibilities isn’t something that feels like a chore, rather it’s something for me to work through to better myself and to be able to understand different perspectives. Being able to work with so many people from so many different walks of life, it is a great pleasure of mine.

What is your strategy to promote and maintain leadership within the Gulf Coast through your position?

Leadership is about taking risk and challenging the status quo while motivating others to achieve something better. My strategy to promote and maintain leadership is to be able to improve our current leadership programs and include more volunteering as well. Volunteering is a great way to learn leadership and I feel as though we need more regional volunteering to help those local VSAs who don’t have the resources to offer it to their members. Other than regional leadership programs, out of region leadership programs are always available as well. Giving the GC members opportunities to travel out of region will increase our out of region retention and give them more opportunities to become a better leader.

What are some ways that leadership can be implemented outside of VSA?

Outside of VSA, leadership can be implemented in different ways ranging from school and work. In school it could be through group work or engaging in class. It could also be taking the initiative to help another classmate who is struggling to learn the topic. At work, it’s leading by example, having effective communication, accountability and empowerment. In the community, it can be volunteering and making change to the neighbors and people around. Being able to be better and help others be better is what a leader does.

What do you think is the source of the generation gap within our region and what are some ways to improve our relationship with Cong Dong (older Vietnamese community)?

I believe that the source of the generational gap in our region is the lack of being able to fully communicate and understand one another. It is hard, especially for older immigrants, to understand the newer generation because of the difference in environment each were raised. There is also  somewhat of a language barrier at times that puts a block in the road as well. To be able to bridge this gap somewhat, we could hold small events in the community that could help the younger generation understand the cultural significance behind customs, rituals, and familial practices, while also trying to get the older generation to recognize the value of exploring new ideas and ways of life. Engage in activities that promote intergenerational bonding and mutual understanding. Cook traditional meals together, share stories of family history and heritage, or participate in cultural events and celebrations.

What are some specific ways to honor and grow our organiztion’s professionalism?

Clearly outline expectations for professionalism in policies, codes of conduct, and employee handbooks. Offer professional development opportunities, such as workshops, seminars, and online courses, to enhance skills and knowledge. Demonstrate professionalism in all interactions and behaviors, serving as a role model for others to emulate. Pair experienced alumni with newer VSA members to provide guidance, support, and advice on navigating professional challenges and opportunities.

What are your plans to further engage inactive/busy alumni with our organization?

Alumni “retire” from VSA for various different reasons. Though one of the main reasons is because they do not have the time anymore to dedicate with their current careers/paths. Being an alumni for UNO myself, I find going to events catered towards the current generation not suitable for me because I am currently at a difference place in my life. I would want to be able to host more relaxed and laid back opportunities for them to be kept in the loop of things without feeling the pressure to do more. Having/continuing alumni monthly newsletters, planning alumni appreciation week events, maybe even having alumni reunions, etc. Through this they are able to experience VSA again without being tangled in the strings again.

What is your vision for your position and what specific plans do you have in store for your term?

My vision for this position is to continue building towards a strong connection between us and everyone else. I will continue the previous’s EVP’s activities by trying to get GC members to attend outer region events, more volunteering within the community, more collaborations with other organizations, and to try to build a foundation for the next generation.

What is your advice for someone just getting into vsa?

I would say to go in with no expectations and keep your mind open. By wanting to explore what VSA is about, you’re not obligated to permanently stay after one event/meeting. You also cannot judge the whole organization as a whole just by one bad experience. Be true to yourself and your feelings. Even if you don’t stay with the organization itself, you never know what benefits would come out from trying.