As a first generation college student, Betty Leung was faced with a unique set of challenges. Her parents immigrated from China in pursuit of the American Dream; working low-paying jobs in order to provide their children a better life and a good education. Betty shared, “Since I was a young child, I was taught the importance of education and it surrounded every facet of my early life. While my parents were able to guide my path to college, they were unable to relate or understand my struggles – I had to figure out a lot of it on my own, such as, applying to colleges, understanding financial aid, and choosing my course load and major.”
Throughout her time in college, she worked an on campus job in order to financially support herself and took part in organizations to provide her a sense of belonging. Reflecting on her college experience she shared, “My experience taught me grit and my parents’ sacrifices shaped me into the person that I am today. Graduating from college is the greatest accomplishment in my life thus far.”
The core source of her sense of belonging during her collegiate years was Delta Phi Epsilon. Betty leaned on her chapter sisters as a support system. She shared her favorite DPhiE memory from her chapter days, “The spring semester of my senior year a few of my pledge sisters and I traveled to Europe for spring break! We visited Paris and Barcelona and had such a great time!” Her support system of sisters created a home away from home for Betty on campus and will forever be her lifelong friends.
After changing her major three times, she earned her degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Business Analytics. She found her passion in using technology to drive meaningful insights. After graduating college, Betty went on to work as a Corporate & Investment Bank Analyst at J.P. Morgan in New York City.
In addition to the support from her sisters, Betty also received support financially from the Delta Phi Epsilon Educational Foundation. By receiving a scholarship. She was able to reduce her financial burden, have a peace of mind, and continue to pursue her educational dreams. Betty shared, “I am forever grateful to the Educational Foundation for their generous financial support when I needed it the most and for believing in me and my dreams.”