Lah “Swee” Paw, a first-generation college graduate, will complete her degree in human development and family studies with a concentration in early childhood education at the University of North Carolina Greensboro this May. Paw said her experience as a student teacher at Davis Elementary School helped her discover her ability to lead a classroom, marking a significant transformation from what she described as an introverted start to her college journey.
Paw’s story highlights the impact of hands-on learning experiences and campus involvement on student confidence and professional development. After arriving in North Carolina from Thailand at age 10, Paw learned English while adapting to new surroundings. She said she was initially unsure about attending college but felt immediately drawn to UNC Greensboro after touring the campus.
As she settled into university life, Paw joined student organizations such as the Human Development and Family Studies Club and the Vietnamese Student Association. “A classmate in my BIO 111 class asked me to join the Vietnamese Student Association, and I realized it was a good chance for me to be involved on campus,” she said. Her participation included serving as treasurer and performing traditional dance at campus events. She added that these experiences helped her overcome nervousness about being in front of others.
Paw’s leadership skills developed further through nomination to the Health and Human Sciences Leadership Program by one of her professors. “I met so many friends in the program, and it made me step out of my comfort zone,” Paw said. The program required public speaking and project management activities that contributed to her growth as both an educator and leader.
Jennifer Jones, assistant professor and student teaching coordinator for the Department of Human Development and Family Studies, commented on Paw’s progress: “It has been a pleasure to watch Swee develop as a student, educator, and leader over the past few years.” Jones observed that Paw evolved from being quiet in introductory courses to embracing leadership roles within academic groups.
Looking ahead, Paw has signed a contract to co-teach Kindergarten at Christian Academy in Durham starting this August. Reflecting on her time at UNC Greensboro, she said: “At UNCG having a community was everything… Every opportunity offered to me opened me up to more people and gave me the confidence to expand my friend group and express who I am.”
