Hy (Kevin) Khou proudly stands in his store

Hy (Kevin) Khou was born and raised in a refugee camp in Vietnam. He came to the United States at age 13, and spoke no English. After a strenuous trip, walking for miles across a landmine-filled countryside and taking a risky voyage to Thailand over rough seas, Kevin arrived safely in the United States and began school.

He attended South Philadelphia High School, where he was assigned to the Business Academy and an English as a Second Language program. Kevin bonded quickly with Gene Jordan, the Academy lead teacher, who helped Kevin and other immigrant students make their way through mostly English-speaking classes. Because of his desire to succeed and unwillingness to disappoint Mr. Jordan, Kevin participated in the Academies’ practice employment interview. "It was hard," said Kevin. "I was afraid because my English was not perfect, but I went because I didn’t want to let Mr. Jordan down."

After graduating from high school, Kevin went on to study finance and international relations at Temple University. Today, at 25, he serves as an interpreter for Vietnamese, Chinese and Cambodians in Philadelphia who need legal help. He also owns and operates a small, busy grocery store. Kevin credits the Business Academy and Mr. Jordan for helping him make such a successful transition to the United States.