Meet VCC intern: Hoa Tran

My name is Hoa Tran (pronunciation: “Wah”). I grew up in Fargo, ND. I served in the ND Army National Guard from March 2003-2015 and deployed with the 191st Military Police Company to Iraq in 2008-09. I received my undergraduate degree in Criminal Justice from ND State University. I am currently completing my last quarter in Master of Social Work at Walden University and planning to register for the horticultural therapy program this fall at the Horticulture Therapy Institute. In my civilian career, I have experience working with at-risk youth, homeless women and children, and individuals living with chronic mental illness.  

I moved to Ferndale, WA in the fall of 2016 and never looked back. I enjoy hiking, camping, fishing, crabbing, snowboarding, exploring state/national parks, and going on walks with my dog (Rocky). Gardening and taking care of houseplants are other ways I connect to nature. My connection with nature has inspired me to pursue a career path that combines mental health services and plant-based activities to help people overcome their mental health challenges. 

I am thrilled to be interning for an organization with a mission that aligns with my personal values and career goals. As a Veteran Conservation Corps intern with Growing Veterans, I look forward to soaking up a multitude of knowledge on organic farming, participating in dirt therapy, and being part of a community. In addition, I'll be able to build professional skills that I can take with me in future career paths.