Our latest undergraduate student spotlight features Bellevue, Washington native Isabella Nguyen, a second year computer science major who is also pursuing a minor in Vietnamese language and culture. Nguyen was recently awarded a Foreign Language and Area Studies (FLAS) Fellowship through the University of Washington’s Southeast Asia Center, part of the Jackson School of International Studies. FLAS Fellowships support students in strengthening their foreign language proficiency and building their knowledge of international studies to increase global engagement. Already planning on minoring in Vietnamese, Nguyen knew the FLAS Fellowship was the perfect opportunity for her to build her language and cultural competency while continuing on her path in computer science.
Allen School: How did you find out about the FLAS Fellowship?
Isabella Nguyen: I learned about it in my Vietnamese language class last year. Since I was already planning to continue taking Vietnamese classes, I thought it would be a great opportunity. To apply, I just proposed a class schedule for this year and explained how the Fellowship would help me.
Allen School: Why did you choose to study Vietnamese?
IN: Both of my parents are from Vietnam, but I’ve never been there. I am minoring in Vietnamese because I want to learn more about my family’s homeland since I’ve realized that I never knew very much about it before. I’m also learning Vietnamese to be able to talk to my relatives who can’t speak English.
Allen School: In addition to learning a language, how else is the Fellowship helping you to expand your horizons?
IN: For the Fellowship, I take one language class and one area studies class each quarter this year. Since I applied to study Vietnamese through UW’s Southeast Asia Center, I’m studying Southeast Asia’s history and culture. Last quarter I took a class on Southeast Asian American history, and this quarter I’m taking a class on the Vietnam War.
Allen School: Will you have an opportunity to study in Vietnam?
IN: The academic year FLAS Fellowship is actually intended for students taking classes here at UW. So I won’t be studying abroad this year, although I plan to in the future.
Allen School: What inspired you to pursue a computer science major at UW?
IN: I had never written a line of code before I started studying here, but I was interested in the potential of the computer science field. My family encouraged me to take a chance and apply — and I’m really glad they did!
Allen School: What do you enjoy most about being a student in the Allen School?
IN: I appreciate the welcoming community and the many opportunities and resources that are available. Even though I came in knowing very little, I’ve been able to find help whenever I need it.
Allen School: What are some of your interests and activities outside of your studies?
IN: I’m part of the Underwater Remotely Operated Vehicles Team, a club that designs, builds and operates underwater robots. Aside from UW ROV, I founded a registered student organization called the Sticks and Strings Society for people to learn and practice fiber crafts like sewing and knitting.
Xin chúc mừng, Isabella — we’re glad you took a chance and applied to the Allen School, too!