Name: Lavinia Doan
Major: Chemical Engineering
Favorite movie: 21
Favorite place to eat in Tuscaloosa: Nicks in the Sticks
What clubs are you involved in? “I’m in or I have been in Chi Omega, University of Alabama Women’s Club, Volleyball, The XXXI, Anderson Society, Mortar Board, Blue Key, Order of Omega, ODK, Women in Business Golf, Society of Women Engineers, and Project Health.”
What is your favorite part about being in Chi O?
“Joining Chi O was one of the best and easiest decisions I have made in college. I truly believe that the girls in Chi O are part of the reason for who I am today. When you’re part of a house of 400 girls who are equally, if not more ambitious, driven, intelligent, involved, and achieving as you, it’s hard not to push yourself to be the best version of yourself that you possibly can. Also, the snack drawer is always on point.”
What is the most rewarding part about campus involvement for you? “In college I realized that creating an impact is something that I enjoy doing, and I think I’ve become pretty good at it. I believe that placing a footprint in someone’s life is the most rewarding feeling—whether it’s through mentoring, education, or service, there are so many ways that you can create an impact on someone.”
If your life were an ice cream flavor what would it be? “Ben and Jerry’s half-baked because there’s always those brownie and cookie dough moments to look forward to and enjoy.”
Describe yourself in three words. Empathetic, Ambitious, Outgoing
What do you think is your best quality? “I tend to be the idea person, whether it’s at school, work, or in a social environment, I enjoy being the visionary and the creative brain. I think what makes this quality better is my reliability. If I have an idea to do something, you can count on me to implement it and reach the desired outcome.”
What inspires you? “Although a cliché answer, my parents are definitely my inspiration every day. They are both Vietnamese refugees who came to this country with nothing and have built a great life for our family. Knowing this and having all the resources and opportunities that I have because of them, I am always pushed to do better and to do more.”
What is the best advice you have ever gotten?
“I’ve been told by many people that everything happens for a reason, and throughout my life I have come across many situations that have made me believe in this even more. It’s crazy sometimes to reflect on where you currently are and realize “if A hadn’t happened then B and C wouldn’t have happened, and if B and C hadn’t happened then…” you get what I mean.”
Where do you see yourself in five years? “Hopefully at a job that I love that allows me to travel and see the world. Business school is also a very big possibility. If I’m not traveling a lot than definitely a dog needs to be there somewhere in the mix.”