Misc / Beyond research

Off the clock.

A few people, places, and projects that matter to me.

Originally from Da Nang, Vietnam. Always curious about new places, good food, and ways to help.

Home rootsDa Nang, VietnamCoastal city. Lifelong connection.

A few chapters outside the lab.

Hy and a conservation team working beside a rhino in South Africa

2020Conservation

A different kind of fieldwork.

TCU Rhino Initiative · South Africa

Learning about wildlife conservation and rhino protection alongside local communities.

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Through the TCU Rhino Initiative, I spent time in South Africa learning about wildlife conservation and the challenges facing rhinos. Seeing these animals up close and working alongside local communities on education about rhino protection made the experience especially meaningful.

The Vietnamese Student Association at TCU gathered for a group photo

2018–2019Community

A little closer to home.

Vietnamese Student Association · TCU

Cultural events, shared traditions, and community as VSA Vice President.

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As Vice President, I worked with our Vietnamese student community at TCU to organize cultural events, from traditional Tet celebrations to Vietnamese pop culture nights. The best part was seeing these events help international students feel more at home and build lasting friendships across cultures.

Hy and Greenie Environmental Club members with their environmental education displays

2017Conservation

Small actions, shared purpose.

Greenie Environmental Club · Da Nang

A student-led space for beach cleanups, tree planting, and environmental education.

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During high school in Da Nang, I started the Greenie Environmental Club to give students a place to learn about environmental issues and take action. We organized beach cleanups, planted trees, and held sustainability workshops for other students. It was encouraging to see our shared interest turn into activities around the city.

Volunteers and children sharing a community meal in Da Nang

2016–2017Community

Learning goes both ways.

Volunteer teaching · Da Nang

Teaching, sharing meals, and celebrating Tet with local children.

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In high school, I volunteered to teach street children in Da Nang. Alongside helping with homework, we shared meals, decorated their homes for Tet, and spent time listening. Those everyday moments of connection were among the most meaningful parts of volunteering.

The very important cat section.

Meet Mam and Muoi Tieu.

Mam

Fish Sauce

Muoi Tieu

Pepper Salt

Tell me about your cat