Megan Nguyen
Education and Outreach Coordinator
California Trout
Sacramento, CA USA
“I feel like I leveled up and turned my passion into action when I took on advocacy.”
Videos
By Roadtrip NationMegan Nguyen
Milestones
My road in life has been direct.
I’m a first-generation Asian American—my parents were Vietnamese refugees.
School gave me a lot of opportunities to get outside and experience nature—my experience at a sixth-grade science camp was especially impactful.
In college, I decided to major in environmental studies with a minor in education because I wanted to be able to give others the same educational experiences that inspired me through school.
While in school, I taught environmental science to first-grade students—I loved bringing awareness to the fact that anyone can make a difference, whether they’re in first grade or in college like me.
After graduating, I found a job in science communication, which is like a bridge between science and policy—I realized that both my passion and talents were well-suited for this sort of job.
I decided to get more involved with advocacy and began volunteering my time to the United Nations Association—I met with congressional representatives to advocate for climate action on a global level.
After a few years, I moved on to volunteer with the Sunrise Movement, who were doing the same type of advocacy work, but in a much bolder way.
I’ve recently transitioned from my role as a communications associate at California Trout to education and outreach, through which I hope to foster more engagement and make a bigger impact.
Keep following my journey
Education
High School
Career
Education and Outreach Coordinator
I'm responsible for communications and outreach for a nonprofit conservation organization.
Career Roadmap
My work combines:
My work combines:
Environment & Nature
Non-Profit Organizations
Upholding a Cause and Belief
Day to Day
I spend a lot of time listening to stories and news of the industry and then deciding which of those stories I want to share. I'll read a lot of news, watch videos, and research to find out what's going on in the world and what's resonating with people. Then, I decide how I want to tell those stories. For example, I'll design a poster to share an important message. I also work on outreach opportunities. I'll spend time meeting face-to-face with our members and sharing the great work that we do.
Advice for Getting Started
Here's the first step for everyone
Informational interviews are so powerful. I highly recommend finding someone who has a job that you want or that works in the industry you're interested in and asking them for an informational interview. Come up with questions you want to know about the job or field. They may even end up connecting you with opportunities that can help move you forward!
Hurdles
The Noise I Shed
From Peers:
"You're too loud. You have too much energy. Your voice and energy are not needed right now."
Challenges I Overcame
Family Stress
Imposter Syndrome
