Major: Psychology BA
"I've become a better leader."
A leader within Concordia's Hmong students, Soua is not one to sit back and not enjoy the adventures that life gives her.
"If we do not take that specific risk we dearly want to, we are taking an even greater risk of not ever doing what we love - making us normal and ordinary."
By taking these risks and doing more than she thought possible, Soua had an exciting academic career that found her involved in many activities.
As an active member of SEASA (Southeast Asian Student Association), she served as secretary, president and spiritual advisor.
In addition, she worked in the mentoring program at Concordia, sang in the choir, and served on student senate. Not satisfied with only the classroom portion of college, she took on some extraordinary projects.
One such task was the Hmong Oral History Project, during which she conducted and translated interviews while working with a member of the history faculty.
She also worked with the taskforce committee that aided in the establishment of the Center for Hmong Studies, which opened in 2004 on the Concordia campus.
This work allowed her to attend the Hmong National Development Conference, at which she gained insight into how to learn, connect and network with all people.
A university-sponsored trip to Thailand provided a special lesson for Soua.
"I've learned to become appreciative of every little object and the people who are in my life. The trip opened many doors to me, such as the opportunity to present at the annual Sociologists of Minnesota conference. I now try to encourage all of the Hmong students to go when they can."
Taking risks - exploring her cultural past so she can understand her future, being involved in campus organizations and enjoying Concordia's cultural diversity have all been a part of Soua's college education.
"The promotion of diversity on campus has helped me to relate not only to people of another ethnic background but also to my own. Concordia is a great place because of its diversity programs and organizations that allow students to become involved."
