In the vibrant halls of Brigham Young University-Hawaii, Shih-En Kuo discovered her passion for social work and a deep desire to positively touch the lives of others—particularly those who are vulnerable or in need.
Hailing from Taiwan, Shih-En’s academic journey and professional experiences have been shaped by her commitment to service, adaptability, and lifelong learning.
Table of Contents
- A Foundation in Social Work
- Lessons from Campus to Career
- Bridging Cultures Through Education
- Skills That Make a Difference
- Overcoming Challenges with Determination
- Community Impact and Advocacy
- Advice for Aspiring Changemakers
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A Foundation in Social Work
“My background in social work theory, practice, and ethics from BYU-Hawaii has significantly impacted how I assist others,” Shih-En shares. Her time at the university was enriched by the love and unique knowledge of her professors and classmates, who guided her every step of the way.
Lessons from Campus to Career
Shih-En credits her role as an Office Assistant at BYU-Hawaii for sharpening her organizational and communication skills. “I gained experience in time management, meeting planning, and communicating effectively with students and colleagues,” she notes, skills that have proven essential in her current endeavors.
Her time as a paraprofessional educator at Laie Elementary School also left a lasting impression. One of her favorite memories was helping a struggling first-grader gain confidence in reading. “Seeing the positive effects of tailored attention and support on a student’s academic journey was advantageous,” Shih-En reflects.
Bridging Cultures Through Education
As an English tutor in Taiwan, Shih-En learned the importance of cultural sensitivity and flexibility in teaching. She adapted her strategies to meet her students’ unique needs and preferences, fostering a more effective and enjoyable learning environment. “The way of teaching English in Taiwan is very different,” she says. “I’m still exploring the best methods to inspire my students to love learning English.”
Skills That Make a Difference
Shih-En’s diverse career has enhanced her professional and personal growth from social work to sales. Her proficiency with tools like InDesign and Excel has allowed her to create impactful marketing materials and make data-driven decisions. As a team leader, she has honed her ability to delegate tasks, motivate colleagues, and foster collaboration toward shared goals.
Overcoming Challenges with Determination
Shih-En recalls a particularly tough project where she had to deliver results on a tight budget and timeline. Through strategic planning, efficient delegation, and teamwork, she overcame the obstacles and delivered on time. “Challenges are opportunities to grow,” she emphasizes.
Community Impact and Advocacy
Shih-En’s involvement in donation drives, international orders, and collaborations with local governments has deepened her appreciation for community engagement. “It’s crucial to form partnerships, rally support, and advocate for positive change on both local and global scales,” she says, adding that these experiences have strengthened her empathy and compassion.
Advice for Aspiring Changemakers
Shih-En offers this wisdom for students and graduates aspiring to careers in social work or education: “Be open-minded, passionate, and proactive in seeking practical experiences. Network, volunteer, and pursue further education or certifications to build your skill set. Most importantly, never underestimate the power of empathy and compassion to transform lives.”
She encourages students to make the most of their college years by immersing themselves in different cultures and embracing mistakes as learning opportunities. “You’ll only be a college student once—make it count!”
Shih-En Kuo’s story is a testament to the impact of dedication, adaptability, and a heart for service. From Taiwan to the world, her journey inspires us to make a difference, no matter where life takes us.
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