College : UCLA Career goal : User experience designer

About Nancy : Nancy Her is the child of Hmong immigrants from Laos and Thailand . Nancy remembers realizing in elementary school that her family was very poor as she compared her lunch of rice and bits of meat to what other students had . While she was ashamed at the time , she now appreciates her parents ’ hard work and sacrifices for their children . Nancy said , “ Out of my mother ' s love , I was able to grow so much and appreciate the life I have today .” Thinking about the two-bedroom apartment that she shares with her parents , three siblings and her grandmother , she said , “ Though it seems like there ' s little air to breathe , I am grateful for close company .”

At Sunnyside High School , Nancy immersed herself in activities and leadership roles . She will attend UCLA and pursue a career as a user experience / user interface ( UX / UI ) designer for websites . She also wants to create an app for Fresno Unified that provides safety and mental health support to students , parents , staff and teachers .

In Nancy ’ s words : “ I am prepared to make sacrifices and confront difficult circumstances in order to thrive and have the best experience in college , while working towards my future to support my family .”

From Beth Wheeler , teacher at Sunnyside High School : “ Nancy embodies the spirit of hidden brilliance ; her demeanor may appear quiet or shy to those who do not know her , but Nancy ’ s captivating wit and genuine warmth effortlessly draw people in . With creativity as her guide and determination as her fuel , she navigates through academics , athletics , leadership and community engagement with admirable finesse . Nancy is the embodiment of a well-rounded student whose impact resonates far beyond the classroom .”