Quy Bui honored as Yuba College Classified Employee of the Year

For more than 20 years, Quy Bui has supported students at Yuba College, helping them navigate the challenges of mathematics and build confidence not only in the subject, but in themselves as well.

Bui joined Yuba College in 2004 as an Instructional Associate in Mathematics and now works in the College Success Center, where she helps students work through questions, connects them with tutors and supports their learning every day. Her work focuses on making sure students feel comfortable asking for help and capable of moving forward with a sense of direction.

Over the years, she has made a lasting impact on countless students across campus, something that has now been recognized with Yuba College’s Classified Employee of the Year award. For Bui, the honor reflects not just her work, but the years she has dedicated to helping students succeed.

“Receiving this award means a great deal to me,” she said. “Personally, I am very thankful and honored. Professionally, it shows that my work is appreciated.”

After more than 20 years at the college, the recognition came as a surprise.

“I was indeed surprised, as I did not expect this recognition,” she said. “Having been employed by Yuba College for over 20 years, this honor holds significant meaning for me, and I feel like I have made a difference in the lives of students.”

Seeing her students grow and begin to triumph over work they once deemed too difficult is especially rewarding to her.

“My favorite thing about my job is seeing students work hard and improve,” she said. “When a student understands something after working hard, that makes me very proud and happy. It reminds me of why I do this work.”

Each day brings new challenges, as she works with students who come from different backgrounds and have different needs. Thankfully, these students are in luck, as Bui makes sure to cater to each of their individual needs.

“The biggest challenge is helping many students with different needs,” she said. “I try to overcome this by being patient, organized and flexible. I listen carefully and do my best to help each student in the right way.”

What keeps her motivated is knowing she is directly supporting students in their pursuit of knowledge, a role she does not take lightly.

“What drives and motivates me is knowing the value of education and helping students succeed in college,” she said. “Many students face challenges in life, so I want to support them as much as possible.”

Many of the students that Bui helps have stories similar to her own. She came to the United States from Vietnam in 1993 without knowing English and enrolled at Yuba College that same year. With the support of students, staff and faculty, she was able to pursue her education and reach her goals, an experience that she continues to pass on through her work today.

“I am always feeling that Yuba College is my second family in this country,” she said. “It is a privilege to give back to those who helped me succeed.”

When it comes to her work, nothing is more rewarding than seeing students follow their dreams, just as she once did.