Pearl Pham: Growth During My First Year
Entering college, I set the mentality that I’d make the most of my first year. Whether that meant making new friends and networking — which Zoom made challenging at first but not impossible — or gaining professional skills that are essential for future success. Looking back on my first-year, I’m proud of myself for getting out of my comfort zone and taking advantage of many of the opportunities Santa Clara had to offer. I absolutely loved being a part of Multicultural Clubs, a business fraternity, and Student Alumni Council, all while balancing an internship at a nonprofit with my classes. Along the way, I was fortunate enough to find amazing groups of people that I enjoy spending time with and learning more from. I was fortunate enough to experience all these things while expanding my horizons both socially and at home. This meant moving into an apartment with three other Santa Clara students and having a taste of what being a real college student feels like.
It’s safe to say my first year in college wasn’t the typical study sessions in the library, Friday night parties, and seeing familiar faces in Benson Hall, but it undoubtedly became the most influential year of my life because of all the opportunities for growth that Santa Clara provided. Even in a virtual setting where the few opportunities to interact in class were interrupting other people by accident or private messaging classmates, I still managed to get a taste of the the wonderful community which Santa Clara takes pride in highlighting. My absolute favorite part of this journey was seeing myself grow in personal challenges but also seeing myself work towards my goals and ambitions for my career.
I’m excited for what the future holds, especially because this summer I’m going to intern for another company while looking forward to my second-year in-person.