Embracing The Journey: Hoa Nguyen ’14, ’17
When Hoa Nguyen ’14, ’17 immigrated to Houston at the age of 16, she was prepared for change—but not for how profoundly her life would evolve. Born and raised in Vietnam, Nguyen’s lifelong love of learning and sense of determination would ultimately lead her to a career in law.
As a high schooler, Nguyen navigated through many cultural nuances and challenges. Despite this, she faced them head-on, learning English through Disney shows and the sitcom “Friends,” and quickly excelling in her studies. In 2011, she enrolled at Texas A&M University as an accounting major. She ultimately became a double major in political science and economics after deciding to follow her passion for politics after a series of long conversations she had with her father, a Vietnamese Army officer.
In 2014, she would go on to find her true calling. While searching for student organizations to engage with, she discovered the Texas A&M Pre-Law Society, where she met Terence Cook, Assistant Dean of Admissions at Texas A&M Law. She credits his guidance for helping her secure scholarship opportunities to attend law school. She would later go on to become part of the law school’s inaugural class, a decision that would transform the course of her life.
Nguyen found her footing early and immersed herself in many law school organizations. She was a member of the Texas A&M Law Review; served as a student ambassador for two years, helping to recruit new Aggie lawyers; and competed and placed in mediation and negotiation competitions.
After earning her J.D. in 2017, she secured a clerkship at the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Indiana. Her career progressed through positions at prominent firms, joining Troutman Pepper Locke LLP (formerly, Locke Lord LLP) and passionately diving into aviation litigation, where she represents one of the world's largest aircraft manufacturers.
Beyond litigation, she has been recognized for her leadership and service. She was a selected member of the State Bar of Texas and Texas Young Lawyers Association’s 2024–25 class of LeadershipSBOT, a program that selects 20 lawyers statewide every year to help shape the future of the legal profession. She was also recognized as a "Top Lawyer Under 40" by D Magazine in 2024. Her unwavering commitment to the legal profession continues through ongoing mentorship, advocacy, and her work with the Texas Aggie Bar Association, where she serves as a board member and secretary.
“I never imagined this path when I first moved to the U.S. as a high school student. Life is full of twists and turns, but what a fascinating journey it has been. I’m deeply grateful for this profession and the doors it continues to open,” Nguyen said, reflecting on her journey.