She spoke with Insight shortly after starting the job, sharing her enthusiasm for connecting guides with meaningful experiences.
Tell us a little about yourself, especially as it relates to your path to Mia.
I was born and raised in Minnesota, as part of a large, extended Hmong family. In 2022 I graduated from the University of Minnesota with a degree in biology with an emphasis on society and the environment, which focuses on such social issues as race, class, and gender. I planned to eventually go to optometry school. Job opportunities weren’t particularly abundant in my field after I graduated, so I took a job as volunteer coordinator for an organization called Free Bikes for Kids. I supervised over 300 volunteers. I found this work immensely rewarding and became interested in working in the non-profit sector. When the temporary job at Bikes for Kids ended, I was hired to be coordinator of Catering and Special Events at Union Hmong Kitchen, led by celebrity chef Yia Vang. A highlight of my work there was catering events during the Olympic Gymnastics Trials. I got to meet Suni Lee!
When I saw the posting for this job at Mia, I was motivated to apply because of my positive experience working with volunteers. I was concerned because I didn’t have a background in the arts, but was assured that was not a requirement. I was thrilled to get the job.
What previous exposure have you had to Mia?
My family would come to Mia once or twice a year. I was particularly drawn to the Southeast Asian gallery.
I like the fact that the museum is so accessible. It’s free! And I was surprised to learn that, as part of the Vitality Arts program, there is a class for Hmong elders. Hmong elders are not typically encouraged to express themselves artistically, so this is a great opportunity.
You have only been on the job for two weeks. What are your impressions?
So far I have been shadowing Emily Ross, the temporary coordinator. The amount of information to absorb is pretty overwhelming. I use a variety of programs to coordinate tours and volunteers, including StaffSavvy, Asana, Salesforce, and Artifax. One goal I would have in the future is to simplify the number of programs I have to manage. Everyone has been very supportive. Since I have a temporary space in the tour office, I have met several guides. I have followed adult and child tours, which were amazing. I have sat in on classes for the new guides.
I enjoy working with people, so I expect that will be the best part of the job. I want to get to know the guides well enough to be able to match guides with tours that make use of their interests and strengths.
When you aren’t working, what are you other interests?
I spend a lot of time with my extended family. I also enjoy photography and reading.
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