May is Asian, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (ANHPI) Heritage Month, and throughout the month, we will be celebrating the contributions and diverse cultures of our Asian, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander colleagues and what their heritage means to them in a multi-part series. Vitals, UW Medicine Intranet asked participants why they chose a career in healthcare and about their favorite traditions.
Jeniffer Huong, Cultural Mediator, Community House Calls Program Harborview Medical Center
“I chose to pursue a career in healthcare because I have always been passionate about helping others and making a positive impact on people’s lives. The ability to provide care, support and improve the health and well-being of individuals is incredibly fulfilling to me. Additionally, the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of healthcare keeps me engaged and motivated to continuously learn and grow in my profession.
My heritage played a significant role in influencing my decision to enter the healthcare field. Growing up in a family where compassion and community service were highly valued, I was inspired by the stories of my ancestors who dedicated their lives to helping others. My cultural background instilled in me a strong sense of responsibility to contribute to the welfare of my community. This deep-rooted value of caring for others guided me toward a career where I could make a meaningful difference.
As someone with Cambodian heritage, I wish people knew more about the rich history, traditions and resilience of my culture. Cambodia has a profound and ancient history, marked by the grandeur of the Khmer Empire and the architectural marvels of Angkor Wat. Our traditions, such as the graceful Apsara dance and the vibrant celebrations of Khmer New Year, reflect the beauty and depth of our cultural heritage.
Moreover, the resilience and strength of the Cambodian people are truly inspiring. Despite facing significant challenges, including the tragic period of the Khmer Rouge, our community has shown remarkable perseverance and a commitment to rebuilding and preserving our cultural identity. I believe that understanding these aspects of Cambodian heritage can foster greater appreciation and respect for our culture.
My favorite cultural traditions are Khmer foods and Khmer New Year. I love Khmer New Year because we had three days off back home to celebrate the New Year. I got to wear new clothes and went to visit friends and families all over the town and provinces. I got to eat a lot of different kinds of foods and play the Khmer New Year traditional games, such as Teagn Prot (tug of war), Chol Chhoung, Bos Angkunh and Leak Kanseng.”
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