I am honored to speak to you today. NDNU has taught us so much, and I am eager to take these learnings into my professional life. Before we go, I would love to share some of the most valuable lessons from my time as a clinical psychology student with you.

The first lesson is to live an authentic life.

I have always been fascinated by the complexity of the human mind. About 23 years ago, when I first visited the library as a freshman computer science major, instead of grabbing a C++ book, I gravitated towards a book on Abnormal Psychology. Yes, before coming to NDNU, I was a software engineer at a tech company and a computer science student before that. Despite my passion for psychology, I pursued something different due to my family’s expectations; but I never felt fulfilled. So, I feel fortunate that I’ve had the opportunity at NDNU to study psychology and practice therapy, which has been my dream for a long time.

After switching careers, I reconnected with my authentic self. Your authentic self is already and always with you. Listening, respecting, and expressing it, however, is something that requires practice and commitment, especially if we have been doing what we’re told – by our parents, friends, and society – for our whole lives. We must make living authentically a priority in our lives.

The second lesson is about building community. 

If we can live authentically, we can also recognize that need in others and how each of us is unique. I lived in China until I was 24. Moving to America was my first exposure to American culture and its diverse ethnicities. Over the years, I experienced many culture shocks, from not knowing how to order a sandwich at Subway to the first-time hearing that I am not responsible for my parents’ happiness.

In my program at NDNU, I was exposed to a wide range of subcultures. In my Career Counseling class, all of us shared our family histories with one another. It was eye-opening for me to learn about my fellow classmates’ struggles, whether as minorities or as immigrants. I was inspired by their spirit to receive a better education, and to make a better life despite the obstacles. I am grateful that NDNU prepared me as a culturally aware therapist. I aim to leverage my multicultural background to support my future clients and contribute to the diverse Bay Area community.

I thank all my professors, classmates, family, and friends for their support. I hope these reflections – about living authentically and building community – will be valuable to you as you embark on your journeys. Congratulations again on your graduation, and best of luck in all your future endeavors!