Senior Brian Liu Nguyen, who is majoring in biochemistry and molecular biology, highlights some of his favorite memories at the University of Nevada, Reno and his involvement on campus as he prepares to graduate this spring.
Nguyen credits his opportunities for growth to his involvement with various organizations on campus specifically, conducting research in the Tran Lab with the University’s School of Medicine and being involved in clubs like the Pre-Dental Society, Nevada Meat Science Club and Lambda Psi Rho Inc., an Asian-interest, but not Asian-exclusive fraternity.
“It’s been a tremendous opportunity to grow as an individual within the Wolf Pack. There are many opportunities within the clubs and organizations on campus to challenge ourselves mentally, physically and socially,” Nguyen said. “I am thankful for the many doors that have opened for me since I joined the Wolf Pack.”
After graduating this spring, Nguyen hopes to attend dental school and complete his long-term goal of providing nutritious and affordable food to the global public.
“I am applying to dental school and have an interest in specializing in pediatric dentistry,” Nguyen said. “I also have a further goal of reducing the cost and increasing the efficacy of cultured meat to provide economical and highly nutritious food to the global public.”
In recalling his experiences at the University, Nguyen recounts his time with his fraternity, all of the events that they were able to contribute to and how this impacted the local Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community.
“My favorite memories from the University are becoming a member of my fraternity, Lambda Psi Rho Inc., and being able to give back to our AAPI community through the fraternity,” Nguyen said. “From events such as API Night Market, Lambda Psi Rho’s Spill The Tea, to Lunar New Year, being able to share our culture to the greater community made me proud.”
This month, Nguyen and Lambda Psi Rho will be hosting an event alongside the University’s Multicultural Center to celebrate AAPI month.
“Lambda Psi Rho’s Pho-Lanthropy event plans to sell bowls of homemade beef-ball pho to the public. We hope to spread awareness of Asian culture and diversity and will be donating all of our proceeds to the Northern Nevada Children's Cancer Foundation,” Nguyen said. “Additionally, we hope to raise awareness for the local AAPI community and to make a charitable donation towards children’s cancer assistance and research.”
For those looking to get more involved in celebrating AAPI events this month, visit the Multicultural Center in person or on social media for more information.
“The Multicultural Center, located on the 3rd floor of the Joe Crowley Student Union always has up-to-date fliers or resources on their AAPI events, as well as other events and information. They also provide resources on their Instagram page @TheCenterNV for all of their diaspora groups,” Nguyen said.