R-JENERATION: A-Tech student working to make a difference

Charles Nguyen, a senior at Advanced Technologies Academy, had a busy first semester as president of one of the most active clubs in the school, the Ambassador Organization. The club helps recruit middle school students for the A-Tech magnet program, and Nguyen has worked hard to build upon the club's accomplishments.

He has placed a major emphasis on fundraising and has motivated the club's 81 members and officers to make this year a memorable one for the program.

Nguyen sat down recently with R-Jeneration to talk about his successes and his challenges, both in school and in his personal life.

Question: What inspired you to run for president of the Ambassador Organization?

Answer: My greatest desire in life is to make a difference in the lives I come across. I want to make sure Advanced Technologies Academy receives the best students because I want them to experience the same positive life changes I did going to school there.

Q: What is the biggest challenge you've faced?

A: My biggest challenge was being the underdog (in last May's ambassador election). Many people considered the election over for me even before I presented my speech. I had to win people over through my efforts.

Q: Who or what was your biggest inspiration?

A: My English teacher, Victoria Norby, was my biggest inspiration. I could not have delivered the astounding speech I did without her. She believed in me, and she helped me believe in myself.

Q: What do you hope to accomplish as president?

A: I will leave a legacy for all future ambassadors to follow. Being an ambassador means you represent your school in the community, including recruitment and professional opportunities. However, the real pride and satisfaction of being an ambassador is knowing that you have the ability to inspire others to come to A-Tech. I want to instill the same passion in current and future ambassadors.

Q: You have a job working at IHOP. What exactly do you do there?

A: I work as a hospitality host but also as a public relations coordinator. I handle the marketing, contracting and execution of our catering services.

Q: Your car is unique among high school students. How did you acquire your Mercedes SUV?

A: My parents bought it for me last year because they wanted me to have a reliable car that will last me through college.

Q: Speaking of college, where do you want to go?

A: I plan to go to the University of California, Irvine for business administration. I plan to pursue a career as a businessman that can make a difference.