HNOU HZONG LEE

HNOU HZONG LEE is a contributor to the new book “A Career in Student Affairs: Reflections from Hmong Student Affairs Educators.” In her chapter, titled "PURPOSE," Hnou shares with us about the significance of purpose in life and its connection to impactful learning experiences in higher education. This includes developing identity and critical consciousness, gathering diverse experiences, managing introversion and imposter syndrome, and maintaining work-life balance in an academic setting.

“In life you are destined to meet so many people, but if you stay in one place you will never be able to meet them… I met unique supervisors and learned different and unique skills from each one. Their mentorship made me a stronger student affairs professional. Had I stayed in Sacramento, I would not have expanded my network and knowledge. If there is an opportunity to move away for school or a job, I encourage anyone to do so… In any work setting, you must put yourself first and take care of yourself. If you are not well, you cannot take care of others…” - Hnou Hzong Lee.

A CAREER IN STUDENT AFFAIRS highlights the unique experiences of Hmong student affairs professionals from a wide range of professional levels, institutional settings, and functional areas. Each author shares a journey into student affairs and how this was navigated to become a student affairs career. Each chapter also concludes with advice for Hmong students who are considering a career in student affairs and provides insights for prospective and current Hmong college students. This book is a great resource for student affairs professionals, faculty, and institutional leaders working with Hmong students exploring career options in higher education. Because many of the professionals were the first in their family to enter higher education, reading their experiences can be very beneficial to many Hmong students.