Elevating the Student Voices of Tomorrow (Part 2)
Danny Nguyen returns for Part 2 of his powerful two-part interview — shifting the conversation from personal history to future impact.
Now serving as Vice President of Administrative Services at Mission College, Danny brings both lived experience and institutional leadership to the table. Having once been a refugee child searching for belonging, and later an educator deeply shaped by his students, he understands the transformative power of being heard.
In this episode, Danny shares his optimistic vision for the future of international education — one rooted in empathy, representation, and authentic student voice.
Yet optimism does not mean complacency.
Danny candidly reflects on areas where higher education must improve, particularly in recognizing and valuing the unique experiences international students bring to classrooms, workplaces, and communities. From the realities of job prospecting to the emotional weight of comparison, this conversation explores both the challenges students face and the systems that must evolve.
At its heart, this episode is about one core belief: when we elevate student voices, we strengthen the future of education itself.
Episode Summary
02:09 – Danny reflects on how meeting international students from diverse backgrounds shaped him as a teacher.
05:30 – How his teaching experiences influence his leadership role at Mission College.
07:42 – His mission to actively listen to and elevate student voices.
10:44 – What friends, family members, and higher education professionals can do to support international students.
13:46 – Danny’s optimism for the future of international education and the innovation sparked by diversity.
16:36 – Why the value of international student experiences is often overlooked in job prospecting.
18:49 – Managing the weight of comparison and advice for students navigating similar pressures.
20:51 – The importance of community and belonging for international students.
