Hoang Trieu

High school: VNU-HCMC High School for the Gifted

Hometown: Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Majors: Mathematics; computer science

Activities: Office of International Student and Scholar Services (OISSS), International Admissions, Phi Beta Kappa

Post-grad plans: Graduate school for mathematics

Why Augustana?

Augie let me grow beyond being just a well-prepared mathematician, but also a speaker, team leader and global citizen. Math at Augie is unique; some courses prepare me for heavy computations, some for writing proofs and presentation, and some for independent research. 

Beyond the classroom, I also engaged in activities that built leadership and communication skills. I also studied in another country — when I'm already an international student here at Augie!

Are you where you thought you'd be when you first came to campus?

Not even close, and honestly, that is exactly how it should be. When I started at Augustana, I expected nothing more than a degree. Instead, I’m leaving with a tons of memories and contributions to the community. 

I wanted to leave Augie better than I found it, and I’m proud of the impact I’ve made — from supporting the international community in OISSS and admissions, to strengthening the math and computer science department through research, and the Supplemental Instruction Program.

Who helped you get to where you are now?

It is a long list, but it starts with the professors who pushed me to explore the intellectual world: Professors Gould, Stewart, Marmé and Kunde. Liz Nino and Evan Juarez took a chance on me as lead international ambassador, giving me challenges that turned me into a much stronger communicator. 

For fueling the "nerd" in me, I owe so much to Professors Mueller, Stonedahl, Sward, Rodman, Civiletti, Randazzo and van Howe, who supported my passion for math, computer science and quantum science. 

Karen and Alex from the STEM/Q Center were crucial in helping me build a collaborative math culture through the Supplemental Instruction Program. 

I’m also grateful to my friends for the late-night study sessions (and the food) where I learned their traditions and a few "cool" phrases in their languages. 

Finally, of course, my family, who supported me every step of the way. This list could go on and on. I would not be the person I am today without the Augie community,

Peak experience?

Winning the Outstanding Undergraduate Research with Distinction Award from the Mathematical Association of America (Illinois Section) and the Augie math department’s Williamson Award within three days of each other.

What surprised you?

I was surprised by how supportive everyone was when I transitioned from my home country to Augustana.

How did you use your Augie Choice?

I used my Augie Choice for a semester abroad through the Budapest Semester in Mathematics in Hungary.

What will you miss the most?

Cooking Bangladeshi/Nepali food in Erickson's basement with my friends at 2 o'clock in the morning.

Advice for the Class of 2030?

Don't seek a perfect college experience, but rather look for people who will make your college experience more than perfect. It is my relationships that I have built throughout my college years that made this place more than I imagined.