Learning to Lead

In many ways, Mai Vang Lee is just like a typical Minnesotan teenage girl; she loves music, dancing, and shopping. In other ways, however, she is very different. Mai Vang was born in Thailand, and she and her family arrived to the United States as refugees just five years ago. When they arrived, they did not speak English and knew very little about how to survive in their new community.

Despite the challenges and obstacles of being a recently-arrived refugee, Mai Vang has excelled in school, particularly in math and science. In October 2009, Mai Vang joined HAP’s Academic and Career Mentorship Program (ACMP), through which she has received additional academic and personal support from tutors and professional Hmong women mentors. ACMP has provided many opportunities for Mai Vang to build on her abilities and learn about opportunities for higher education and careers related to math and science.

Although Mai Vang excels academically, one of her challenges has always been extreme shyness. When Mai Vang first joined ACMP, she rarely shared her opinions or volunteered in class. When the program coordinator asked Mai Vang to serve as the student representative on the program’s Advisory Board, Mai Vang initially declined because she didn’t think she could represent her classmates. With encouragement from ACMP staff and participants, Mai Vang eventually agreed to join the Board. 

In preparation for the first Board Meeting, Mai Vang surveyed her classmates about their experience with the program. She shared these thoughts with the Board, and positive changes were made as a result of the feedback she had gathered. Students continue to contact Mai Vang when they have suggestions for the program, and Mai Vang has also helped recruit more of her classmates to participate in ACMP.

Mai Vang’s participation in ACMP is a significant commitment for Mai Vang and her family. As the oldest of six children, Mai Vang has numerous family responsibilities, such as preparing meals and helping to care for the younger children. Her involvement in ACMP means that she often does not arrive home from school until 6:30pm or later. Fortunately, both Mai Vang and her family recognize the value of the program, and Mai Vang has managed to participate in the program and still help her family.

Through her participation in ACMP, Mai Vang has strengthened her leadership skills and has used them to positively impact her life and the lives of her peers.

HAP is proud to tell her story.