Get to know Hang Nguyen, Reference Librarian at the State Historical Society of Iowa!
What’s your musical background?
I was inspired by my family’s and surrounding friends’ musicality growing up, so I decided to take piano lessons in high school. Unsure about a career in music during undergrad, I switched majors four or five times, but couldn’t stay away from music, as I fell in love with Chopin! From there I presented a piano recital and lecture recital with my last two years in undergrad and went for the musicology degree.
What might others be surprised to learn about you?
I enjoy billiards, disc golfing, and dance video games like Dance Central and Just Dance. I recently got into mushroom hunting. The most common mushrooms I’ve found in the Iowa City area and harvested for eating include Chicken of the Woods, Golden Oyster, and Puffballs.
What superpower would you choose for a day, and why?
I would choose the power to fly to see more of the natural beauty around us and travel to parts of the world that are difficult to get to.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
To try something new even if I fail because I’ll still learn something throughout the process or about myself.
What’s your favorite thing about MLA?
I enjoy the camaraderie and the energy. Everyone is friendly and open to workshop ideas with me, and it’s always inspirational to hear what new projects and initiatives colleagues are taking on. I always look forward to (re)connecting with friends and colleagues at MLA meetings.