Qua was number one in her class of 359 at Abraham Lincoln High School and yet her academic success was only the beginning. Qua was very involved in her community, including a program called Smart-Girl, in which she mentored 7th and 8th grade girls and guided them to make good decisions, healthy choices, and to feel empowered. Qua’s success has not been without challenges. When Qua’s brother died, she took on the responsibility of helping her sister-in-law transition to her new life in America and care for her children. Qua says that she’s been able to accomplish what she has by setting goals and focusing on the moment. In college, she volunteers with Memorial Hospital, the Minority Association of Pre-Health students, and Aspire, and serves as treasurer of the Asian American Student Alliance. Through Greenhouse Scholars, she was selected for an internship in the Research and Development department at WhiteWave Foods. She has also conducted research at the University of Colorado’s Anschutz medical campus and plans to pursue a career in public health. When she works on something, whether it is chemistry homework or taking care of her nephews or serving the community, she dedicates 110% of herself.
