When Sean Lee was notified that he was named the 2024 Computer Information Systems Department Outstanding Student, one of the first people he shared the news with was his internship supervisor at Southern California Edison.
“He told me he was the CIS Student of the Year, too.” Lee said. “So was his boss.”
Lee will start a full-time position with SCE as a software engineer, contingent on his graduation. He’s already found professional colleagues in the Bronco Alumni Family. He’ll also shares a new bond with someone much closer to home.
About 30 years ago, Lee’s father immigrated to the United States from Vietnam. His father’s version of the American Dream included earning a degree in computer science from Cal Poly Ä¢¹½ÊÓƵ, then building a career at SCE and a family in El Monte, Calif. It’s one of many journeys to come full circle when Lee steps to the podium during Commencement to accept the honor of 2024 College of Business Administration Co-McPhee Scholar.
“When I thank my parents for all that they have done for me, I want to say that portion in Vietnamese so that it will be more meaningful,” Lee says. “Although my mom understands casual English, she would better understand what I am trying to convey.”
Lee will speak during the first of two ceremonies scheduled for 8:00 a.m. on May 19 to honor the CBA’s Class of 2024. He is only one of two undergraduates to complete a bachelor’s degree with a perfect 4.0 grade point average. As an undergrad, Lee gained additional work experience as a student assistant with the university’s IT department.