Helene was born and raised in Orange County, California, and now resides in Los Angeles, where she attends UCLA! Following her undergraduate studies in Chemistry and Programming, she is currently a graduate student in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, with plans to continue toward a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering. Alongside her academic work, Helene is also an aspiring researcher in the field of soft materials and polymers in the Srivastava Lab. She is a passionate advocate for interdisciplinary and intercultural learning, shaped by her bilingual upbringing and her family's immigrant experience. Throughout her academic journey, she's been awarded county, state, and national recognition for her Vietnamese American studies, but has found the most fulfillment in sharing her insights and knowledge to help the new generation of students grow and succeed.

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Helene's approach to teaching emphasizes improvement and understanding over perfection. To facilitate an effective and welcoming learning environment, she prioritizes open and honest communication, where students can feel comfortable asking questions and making mistakes. She feels it is just as important to build confidence and connection as it is to master knowledge, so she strives to adapt her teaching style to each student's unique goals and learning preferences. Whether it is working through difficult concepts or celebrating small milestones, her goal is to help students build both a strong academic foundation and the tenacity to face challenges independently.

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Outside of school and work, Helene is an avid jigsaw puzzler as well as a fan of the arts. She's dabbled in drawing, painting, sewing, embroidery, photography, and video editing! Most of all, Helene loves spending time with her family, friends, and dog, Truffle. She welcomes any and all pet photos, and is always happy to share her own!