Trang Dang
Language Department Team Leader
Our blog is dedicated to providing valuable insights and expert knowledge in the realm of Asian language services.
Interview
How many languages do you speak? Please write them in a list. Which is your mother tongue?
Vietnamese (mother tongue); English (advanced); Korean (intermediate)
What is your favorite sport or hobby in your free time? Why is it so? Any interesting stories on it?
During my precious leisure moments, I love walking outside, basking in the invigorating breeze and the warm rays of natural sunlight. As a devoted mother balancing my hectic professional life with the demands of my daughter, walking into the great outdoors gives me an indescribable sensation of liberation and serenity, far removed from the bustling routines of daily life. The walking also brings me the chance for deep introspection and self-discovery. It serves as a respite from distractions, enabling me to be fully present and contemplate my thoughts and emotions. Amidst the stillness of nature, I often uncover clarity and solutions to the challenges I may encounter along life’s path.
Top 3 things we don’t know about you? Might be something funny, quirky or strange 🙂
- I was born left-handed. I can only use chopsticks with my left hand, but I write with my right hand because, in kindergarten and first grade, my teacher forced me to use my right hand to write.
- Both my husband and I are Vietnamese, but we have been living in Korea for a long time and plan to settle down here.
- I would describe myself as highly emotional, and prone to tears whether I encounter something moving, sorrowful, or even joyful.
What was the most surprising thing you learned about Asia while working here?
Asia is known for its rich cultural heritage and diverse population, but one aspect that surprises me most is the linguistic diversity in the region. Within each country, such as Vietnam, and the Philippines, one may encounter numerous distinct dialects, and it is not uncommon for individuals residing in different areas of the same country to struggle to comprehend the language spoken by those in other regions.
Favorite book or a book that changed your mindset and why it did?
Totto-Chan: The Little Girl at the Window
My major at University is English Education, so even though I am not currently working as a teacher, my passion for teaching continues to burn bright (at least I still teach my daughter). Therefore, this book has left me feeling inspired and compelled to question the fundamental nature of traditional schooling. I hope that the future of education will undergo a transformative shift, empowering the next generation with a strong sense of self-confidence, curiosity, and empathy.
Your most extreme experience so far in your life/biggest challenge in your life?
The most significant challenge I face in my life is finding the balance between my work and parenting responsibilities. As a Team Leader in a department, I have a multitude of tasks to manage, problems to solve, and opportunities to enhance my professional career. Simultaneously, I strive to be a nurturing mother and ensure that I can dedicate quality time to my daughter after my 9 to 6 workday.
Your top 3 goals in professional life for the next 10 years
- Mastering new and innovative tools for my industry (such as chatGPT now)
- Improving my work-life balance
- Becoming a thought leader