Hey everyone! My name is Alan, and I am a rising sophomore at UT Austin. I grew up in Guangzhou, China before moving to the Bay Area, California at ten. Thanks to my Cantonese upbringing, I find great joy in tasting and cooking all types of food. Besides my passion for eating, I love nature’s multifaceted beauty, everything from the ocean’s sublime waves to a flower’s minute details. Currently double majoring in Business and Sustainability Studies, I aspire to ignite positive change in the private sector.
Internship Placement: US Forest Service, Umpqua National Forest
As a CAPAL scholar/intern, what does CAPAL mean to you?
CAPAL means an uplifting community. I feel extremely privileged to be able to absorb the unique perspectives and ambitions of my cohort, full of AANHPI individuals of diverse backgrounds.
What is an issue or topic within the AANHPI communities that you feel passionate about addressing?
Empowering our voice. Silence and obedience are often embedded in AANHPI stereotypes, which has led to an undermining of our communities’ struggles. I hope we can become louder advocates for ourselves, ensuring we are visible and have a seat at the table.
What are your main responsibilities at your position? What are some of your big projects?
Collecting data for Umpqua’s aquatic habitats that will be used toward fishery conservation and restoration efforts.
How does this internship fit with your professional and career goals?
The internship will:
- Teach me the many intricacies that come with ecosystem management. This is vital as business decisions should take into account the effects on our planet.
- Familiarize me with the processes and structure of government agencies. Sustainability work requires extensive collaboration with the government, regardless of what industry I am in. Understanding how government works will allow for better collaboration.
What does public service mean to you? What sparked your interest or desire to get involved with public service?
To me, public service is the intersection of action, policy, and community. As someone motivated by impact, public service is a natural avenue for me to make a difference.
