Steve's Interview
By Von Phrakonkham

I had the pleasure of interviewing one fellow Laotian who has paved his way toward a better career in science and technology. His hard work and determination helped him land a career with a major biotechnology company, but he's not stopping there. He's currently pursuing a career in the music industry hoping to help Laotians and other Asians to break through the American entertainment industry. [Due to personal reasons, Steve cannot disclose his last name.]

Please introduce yourself.
Well, my name is Steve. I was born in Laos just as the Vietnam War was coming to a halt in 1977. I have lived in California ever since I came to the United States in 1980. I'm 25 years old and ladies, I am single!

What is your title and what are your job duties?
After graduating from U.C. Davis with a B.S. degree in Neurology, Physiology, and Behavior, I was fortunate enough to be hired by a biotechnology company in the bay area. I serve as a Quality Assurance Technical Reviewer specializing in blood screening products. I review technical documents such as batch production records, manufacturing production records, and other types of documents that may be audited by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and international regulatory agencies. It is crucial that I perform my job well, as our products are used both domestically and internationally to screen blood donations for blood pathogens, such as HIV. Screenings are important means of preventing viral infection through blood transfusions.

What made you want to pursue a career in the biotechnology field?
I have always wanted to work in the biotechnology industry. My friends who had graduated before me also started their careers in biotechnology as well. Also, the field of science has always captivated my mind, seeing that there are so many wonders that have been uncovered and so many mysteries that we have yet to solve.

Describe the job satisfaction and the benefits that come along with having a career like yours?
Hmmm…job satisfaction and benefits. None whatsoever. Just kidding. There are many benefits and awards to working in a biotechnology. First, there are continuously new and exciting developments in this field. Also, I have the satisfaction of knowing that I am helping to promote a safer blood supply. However, the best reward is knowing that I am contributing to advancing the field and helping out mankind in the process. Finally, the pay isn't too bad either.

What advice would you give to other fellow Laotians who would like to pursue a similar career as yourself?
I want other fellow Laotians to understand that they don't have to be doctors or lawyers to make a difference in this world. For those of who have already decided that you would like to work in the biotechnology industry, please realize that there are various types of positions. You don't have to limit yourself to the laboratory. You could consider positions within other departments: Production Planning, Information Management, Regulatory Affairs, or Quality Assurance, etc. I also would like to stress that you aren't necessarily restricted by your degree. If you later decide that you would like to pursue other career options that are not related to your college degree, you could always return to college to further your career options, and at the same time, hold down a job for financial security while you explore other opportunities and interests.

Who were your influences growing up in America?
My influences included my parents and my observation that the field of biotechnology and science was not pursued by many Laotian Americans.

What is the greatest part about being Laotian American and having accomplished such an outstanding goal in your life?
Being Laotian American alone gives me enough pride, but also being able to complete my education and pursue an exciting and interesting career despite the generation gap, peer pressure, high expectations, and all the baggage of today's youth is very rewarding, and I am very thankful.

Besides working, what are your hobbies and aspirations?
Aside from my professional career, I am also pursuing a career in the music industry. I have been taking singing classes at a local community college, and recently joined the choir at the request of the music director. Someday, I plan on having my own record label to promote Asian artists, as they are such rare breeds.




I would like to wish Steve all the best in his endeavors and thank him for sharing his success. It is our hope that by printing such stories, Lao Vision can celebrate current successes and inspire many future ones to come.