Celebrating a Full-Circle Journey with the APIA Community

By Nhi Bui, PharmD | Medical Science Liaison Oncology | Medication Safety | Research & Implementation | Collaboration & Mentorship

Navigating a new country as a high school student was challenging enough, but nothing prepared me for the heartbreak that followed. Four years after my family and I moved to the United States, our world was shaken by the news of my mother’s breast cancer diagnosis. That same year, my grandfather lost his battle with prostate cancer back in Vietnam. Amidst the chaos, I found myself grappling with a language barrier, struggling to communicate and advocate for my family’s needs.

Where I am today is largely because of APIA Scholars, an organization committed to making a difference in the lives of Asian Pacific Islander American (APIA) students and creating a foundation for their future success. Recently celebrating its 20th year, APIA Scholars has supported more than 8,000 students, provided over 150 Million is scholarships, and I’m grateful to have been one of them.

As a first-generation college student with limited financial resources, my road to higher education seemed daunting. But through APIA Scholars, I was able to pursue my dreams with the organization’s financial support, mentorship and leadership opportunities. Little did I know then that the community would become not just a lifeline, but the support that would carry me through some of the toughest times of my life. And I’ve been committed to paying that forward. For instance, as I graduated from pharmacy school and embarked on my residency, I became an APIA mentor to other aspiring first-generation students, guiding them on their paths to success.

Today, as an oncology pharmacist and a medical science liaison at Fresenius Kabi USA, I’m working to bridge the knowledge gap between science and patients. I’ve been inspired by my family’s health experiences, and Fresenius Kabi has given me the opportunity to impact the oncology treatment landscape for patients.

My journey truly came full circle when I learned Fresenius Kabi was inspired by the mission of APIA Scholars and through its Alliance of Asian and Pacific Islanders Employee Impact Group was creating opportunities for APIA students often underrepresented on college campuses. The group was surprised to learn that I was a former APIA scholar and presently a mentor through the organization. In turn, I was thrilled to know that my company was committed to supporting future APIA leaders who will impact my community and our country.

And I was honored to recognize the achievements of these leaders at the APIA Scholar’s 20th anniversary celebration and share my story with attendees. This is one small way I’ve been able to give back to an organization that has given me so much and made my dream of making a difference in healthcare possible.

I am proud to be part of a company that builds a future where every student, regardless of their background or circumstances, has the opportunity to pursue their dreams and achieve their fullest potential. The generosity of Fresenius Kabi and other corporate sponsors of APIA Scholars will empower first-generation students, facilitating academic success, leadership, and professional development, and fostering a vibrant APIA community. Together, we can uplift and empower each other, embracing differences and supporting one another for generations to come.