Discovering my path to a unique and exciting future.

My name is Emily Dinh, I'm currently a student who is finishing my associate degree from Portland Community College (PCC). My current major is Associate of Science Transfer Degree. I'm pursuing Business Administration at Portland Community College and aiming to transfer to Portland State University to gain a bachelor’s degree. 

I'm an international student and the first person in my family to study abroad. Studying and living abroad is undeniably a challenge. However, Portland and the Oregonians have been welcoming me so well. Everyone at PCC is so kind and friendly. I remember receiving those supportive instructions on the very first day to the most heartwarming follow-up emails weeks after that from the Office of International Student Services staff and mentor friends. It is undeniable that PCC is a major part of my journey.  

First meeting with the International Orientation Mentor team! Nice weather, delicious food, amazing people!

Besides that, experiencing a new environment is also an opportunity for me to learn and practice, triggering my flexibility. By going to Portland Community College, I can learn from the most practical lessons from professors to apply to current or future business. Moreover, I also can enrich my life by meeting and making new friends with people from almost everywhere in the world. Within my first year at this college, I was motivated to apply for my very first job as a mentor and have been able to be awarded two PCC Foundation scholarships! I've never thought I could do all of these without giving myself a try! Being able to receive this scholarship is not only a reward to me, but it's also a recognition and a motivation for me to go forward. 

As an International Orientation Mentor, I have been provided with amazing chances to expand my relationship. Along this journey, I learn and develop a lot through the differences in cultures as well as the diversity in behaviors, thinking processes, and engage in different working methods. By supporting other new international students, I reflect, absorb and broaden my knowledge.

Long story short, I'm grateful and proud to be a part of the Portland Community College family. I am going to do my best to achieve my goals and share this positive energy with everyone. 

I’m in love with the fall!