Jacky Bui
My time at CSULB has skyrocketed my journey to self-discovery and it has been an extraordinary 3 ½ years. I came here with uncertain feelings, hoping to quickly graduate so I can begin my life; however, little did I know that my life truly would begin when arriving to CSULB. Through CSULB organizations, I have met genuine people who have now become my lifelong friends through the simple statement of “You too? I thought it was just me!” As I have become more aware about the abundant support that this campus offered, I started resolving my mental health issues at CAPS and I re-dedicated my life to Jesus, propelling my self and spiritual health. Beyond the textbooks, I have learned the most important lessons about life through my professors who sincerely care about their students. As a Resident Advisor in CSULB’s University Housing and Residential Life, I have embraced what true community is and am developing my passion for people by advocating social justice for all. In President’s Ambassadors, my perspective of professionalism has been established and I am growing as a leader through my servitude to others.
I came to CSULB as a naïve 18 year old who had little to no expectations for what was to come in college. Now that my time at CSULB is almost done, I can confidently say that I have received priceless experiences and lessons that wouldn’t have been found elsewhere; I accredit much of who I am to those who have affected my life in Long Beach. By discovering who I am at CSULB, I am ready to embark on any adventure life has to offer and I am honored to have been a part of this community.
In high school, I was very involved with student government and other organizations. I thought that my success had peaked by the age of 18 and I was hesitant about having to start over in college. Becoming so caught up in high school glory, I didn’t really have plans for college, which was very out of the ordinary.
My dad and sister went to CSULB during their undergraduate careers, but I wanted to have the out-of-state college experience where I could move out into the campus residential halls and become independent, reflecting what was shown in typical television shows/movies. What the television shows/movies don’t always reveal is that college is expensive. During this time, I didn’t have enough for textbooks, let alone, tuition/housing. Due to the high costs of moving to a farther school, my parents steered me in the direction of CSULB because of its affordability and close distance to our home.
Although I was so sad in the moment that my reality would not meet my media-driven college expectations, attending CSULB has been a life-changing decision that surpasses any television show/movie portrayal of the college experience.
That is a good question! The answer changes constantly, but currently, I hope to pursue a career in Public Relations, Marketing, Film, and/or Writing. I would love to work for Google, Facebook, the entertainment industry, or any organization that is established in ethical leadership. Above all, I strive to use my resources and skills to impact the world and breathe life into others. I have had access to some of the most amazing experiences and I want to share my joy with every person I get the opportunity to encounter.
