2025 PSD Business Administration: Bryan Pham
Moving to California at age 17 from Vietnam, Bryan encountered language barriers and cultural differences. He was glad to reunite with his mother, who had come to the United States years earlier to establish a home for the family here, and Bryan is grateful to her for her sacrifices.
Based on a friend’s recommendation, he came to Cypress College, and called it “a turning point.”
Here, he says he met supportive and inspirational people. He became involved with the Business Club, as a student ambassador, and a tutor with the Mathematics Learning Center.
For his future plans, he will combine his strong skills with his extroverted personality and continue to help people with math, as CPA. He will continue his studies next year at UC Irvine or Cal State Fullerton.
“Thanks to Cypress College and all the amazing people — friends, professors, and staff — I felt welcomed and supported in a place I had never lived before. Cypress College inspired and motivated me to overcome my difficulties and grow into the person I am today. I’ve always believed that the door never closes for those who choose not to give up.”
Please tell us about yourself. Where did you grow up? What are your interests? What is your story?
I was born in Da Nang, a coastal city in Vietnam, and lived there for 17 years before moving to California. My mom immigrated to the United States ten years ago when I was still a little kid. She has sacrificed so much for us to be reunited and for me to have the opportunity to attend school and pursue my education.
Language barriers and cultural differences were the biggest challenges I faced when moving to a new country, but thanks to Cypress College and all the amazing people — friends, professors, and staff — I felt welcomed and supported in a place I had never lived before. Cypress College inspired and motivated me to overcome my difficulties and grow into the person I am today. I’ve always believed that the door never closes for those who choose not to give up.
I was a math tutor at the Cypress College Math Learning Center during the fall semester, and I’m currently working as an accounting clerk at an accounting firm. I’m interested in becoming a CPA in the near future and, hopefully, opening my own accounting firm one day.
What are you most passionate about? Why?
I consider myself an extroverted person, so I hope to pursue a career where I can interact with clients. In the future, I aspire to work at a public accounting firm where I’ll have the opportunity to develop new technical skills and connect with professionals in the corporate world.
Why did you choose Cypress College?
I moved to the United States right after graduating from high school in Vietnam. At first, I struggled to find a school near my new home, but a friend — who is a Cypress College alum — referred me to Cypress College. Attending Cypress became a turning point in my journey in the United States. I have met so many supportive and inspirational people at this school whom I could never forget.
What have you been involved in at Cypress College? How has your path unfolded?
When I first came to the United States, I wasn’t sure which major to choose. Thankfully, I met friends and instructors who were so passionate about their field, and their enthusiasm inspired me.
I was involved in the Cypress College Business Club, where I served as a student ambassador, and I also served as treasurer for the Math Club. These wonderful experiences have helped me develop leadership skills.
Share a memorable event or experience while you’ve been a Cypress College student.
One of the most memorable experiences I have had at Cypress College is becoming a math tutor at the MLC. I have the opportunity to work with many talented peers and to talk to many amazing students at Cypress College. I feel proud when I could make a small improvement on other’s academic journey.
Who are the faculty and staff (in your major, an academic or other support program, etc.) who have helped you get where you are today?
I would not be where I am today without the incredible support of the Cypress College community. I would like to express my deepest gratitude to:
Professor Samreen Manjra and Professor Ann Sheridan-Solis — thank you for inspiring me and helping me discover how interesting accounting can be.
My math professors Professor Hoang Nguyen, and Professor Hoa Tran. They have been supporting me so much on my journey at Cypress College.
Counselor Alan Reza — he has given me so much support during every step of my college experience.
Professor Kathryn Wada — thank you for your motivation and for helping me overcome my fear of English.
How has Cypress College supported you throughout your time at the college?
Through my journey at Cypress College, I have had the opportunity to enjoy many wonderful programs at Cypress College like EOPS, Charger Experience, Charger Food Pass, and counseling. All of the staff are so friendly and supportive to me.
What are your immediate plans after completing your studies at Cypress College (at your transfer institution, in the workforce, etc.)?
After completing my studies at Cypress College, I plan to transfer to a four-year university, but I have not yet decided between CSU Fullerton and UC Irvine.
What are your long-term goals? What do you aspire to?
I want to become a CPA and work at a public accounting firm for several years to gain experience. In the future, I plan to return to school to earn an MBA, with the goal of eventually operating my own business.
What are you most proud of?
I’m proud of how mature and persistent I am now. There’s a significant difference between who I was on my first day at Cypress College and who I am now.
What bit of advice would you give to current and future Cypress College students
Always believe in yourself and your ability to grow. Never give up and believe in the future.
Is there anyone in particular you’d like to thank?
I would like to thank my mom for her perseverance and persistence. She has always been a great source of motivation and emotional support for me, helping me grow every day. I would like to thank my dad for always supporting me on my journey.
Is there anything else you’d like to share?
A big shoutout to my friends Fred, Tai, Du, Andy, Amy, Riley, Egan, Tuan, Tommy, Lily, Ngan, Thu, Khang and my coworkers at the MLC. You guys have made my experience at Cypress College so, so memorable!