Jade Pham
Current Role
Special Education Teacher for the Hawaiian Department of Education
Major
Political Science, 2017
What’s one thing that surprised you about Corban?
What surprised me most about Corban was the authentic, faith-based culture. Growing up in a non-Christian home, I had no idea what to expect in terms of the scope of Christian integration in my studies and campus life. In short, I was surprised at how much I came to embrace everything and everyone around me.
What about Corban specifically prepared you for this next step in your journey?
Corban taught me that Jesus Christ should reside at the core of everything I do.
What’s one thing you would want to tell someone starting their journey at Corban?
I would tell them to be bold, unafraid, and vulnerable—all at the same time.
Who is one professor who had a strong influence on your development? Can you give an example?
When all is said and done, Professor Caito taught me to challenge my own thinking and consider the hearts of others. Politics is no easy feat, but Christ calls us to engage the world in love and with thoughtfulness.
How were faith, leadership, and ethics woven into your courses? How did those elements prepare you for life, regardless of where you work?
Faith, leadership, and ethics were woven into each and every one of my professors. They all embodied the image of Christ, unique in their paths, but unified in their grace. Those elements prepared me to be a teacher myself—a journey that God clearly called me toward only after leaving Corban. I love telling my public high school students, “Yes, I am a Christian,” knowing full well that my life is a testament for the Lord.