Helllo! My name is Thao Mai Thuy Nguyen, but that’s a mouthful even for me so I just go by Mai! I am a Vietnamese American born and raised in Chicago, IL. I am trilingual with varying proficiencies. I am loud and proud of my ethnic background and will never hesitate to give a random back about Vietnam.

I am a first year, currently undecided with an interest in Material Science Engineering and minor in Chinese. However, my goal is to one day produce sustainable textiles through advancements in technology. Fashion has always been my creative output, but wasn’t something I considered possible. After Exploration recitation, I realized it’s something I truly love and wish to pursue, but with a little twist. I don’t believe clothing should be a luxury. I would like to better the lives of everyone in the world by developing cheap, but durable fabrics that is also environmentally friendly.

I solely believe that hard work and determination is the key to success. Regardless of gender and race, as long as there’s effort there’s a profitable outcome, but of course, the key to happiness is staying optimistic and always jumping back up.