Outstanding Senior Spotlight: Danny Nguyen

For Danny Nguyen, community has been the foundation of both personal growth and professional direction during his time at the University of California, Davis.  

Set to graduate this year with a Bachelor of Science degree in chemical engineering and a minor in political science, Nguyen can appreciate that his university experience was not only informed by the coursework and professional opportunities that built his skillset, but also by the people and programs that helped him thrive.

One of Nguyen's most impactful experiences of community was with the UC Davis chapter of the American Institute of Chemical Engineers, or AIChE. What started as a way to connect with peers soon became a central part of his college experience.  

"Through AIChE, I made some of my closest friends, met peer mentors and faculty, and learned what chemical engineering could look like after graduation," he said.

Nguyen credits the organization with helping him secure research opportunities and internships, and as he gained more experience, he stepped up to give back. Serving as the club's president in 2023–2024, he has led efforts to organize social and professional events for students.  

"It's incredibly rewarding to see my peers benefit from the same support that helped me early on," he said.

Nguyen's commitment to fostering community extends across both academic and technical spaces.  

As a residential advisor in first-year dorms and a peer mentor in the University Honors Program, he's supported new students during their transitions to college life. At the same time, hands-on technical experiences — from internships to helping launch UC Davis' first ChemE Cube team — have challenged him to grow in other ways.  

"Each venture pushed me to become a more collaborative teammate, a more thoughtful leader and a more resourceful learner," he said.

After graduation, Nguyen will join Bosch Semiconductors in Roseville as an associate process engineer. As he looks ahead, he reflects on what's helped him succeed and what he hopes to carry forward — a drive to keep learning, and the importance of surrounding himself with people who inspire and challenge him to grow.