Age: ​35​
Job Title and Description: Founder and CEO of Lolli Swim
College Name/Major:​ Mt. San Antonio College, Fashion Merchandising​
What does your current job entail? Is there such a thing as a typical day?
​VN: Everyday is a little different. I wake up, check my emails, have a few conference calls and depending on the month, there will be fittings, photo shoots or trade shows.
What is the best part of your job?
​VN: Working with my friends and family! I love being able to work with talented people whether it’s in design on the technical side to models and creatives on the visual side. It’s always fun to bounce ideas off each other.
What was your first entry-level job in your field and how did you get it?
VN: ​Interning at SWAT FAME in the Pre-Production department. My auntie was a manager there and she brought me in to learn the production side of the business. It was super hard work and not the glamorous side of the business, that’s for sure!​
What words of wisdom do you find most valuable?
VN: Work hard, and ​always stay later than than your co-workers!
What is one mistake you made along the way and what did you learn from it?
VN: ​Not following my gut. No one believes in you more than yourself. Always follow your first instincts, and don’t let people get in your head.
What has been the most surreal moment of your career thus far?
VN: ​It happens all the time! I really don’t know how I got here half the time. I’m so grateful and appreciate every moment and every struggle that has brought Lolli the successes given.​
What do you look for when considering hiring someone?
​VN: Personality, drive and if they have a little bit of Lolli in them.
What advice would you give to a 20-something with similar aspirations? ​
VN: Keep going ​and stay positive! It sounds cheesy, but if you work hard you really can do anything. With social media, anyone can put their ideas and product out there.
What’s the one thing that’s stood out to you the most in a resume?
VN: Hmmmm… surprisingly a cute font—and that it was scented!