When Josephine Tsai first applied to college, she didn’t have a clear major in mind. Like many students, she chose something flexible and practical—Finance—believing it would open doors in any industry. What began as a default choice quickly transformed into a true passion through hands-on coursework, immersive certificate programs, and supportive mentors at Houston Christian University (HCU).
Now a graduating senior with a major in Finance and certificates in Data Analytics, Commercial Banking and Commercial Real Estate, Josephine is not only finishing her time at HCU as a proud member of the Honors College but stepping directly into a full-time job offer as a Credit Analyst at Cadence Bank, where she previously interned. “I’m really excited to start as I had a great experience working there over the summer. I plan to keep advancing through this career field and potentially get my master’s after a few years of working and saving up,” said Tsai.
She credits HCU Honors College professors for impacting her outlook on life. “Dr. Hartenburg helped me believe in myself. He always told me, ‘Don’t try, just do,’ and that mindset has shaped how I approach challenges.” She also praises Dr. Clardy for her kindness and guidance: “She listens to my concerns and offers solutions and helps me create a pathway or game plan to achieve my dreams.”
Josephine’s extracurricular involvement is as impressive as her academic achievements. In addition to making the Dean’s List each semester, she is a past class representative of the Student Government Association – As Chair-Elect of the Student Foundation—the only student organization that regularly collaborates with the University’s President and First Lady—she represents a cohort of students entrusted with fostering relationships between the university community and its leadership. A recipient of the Delta Mu Delta Scholarship and Archie Dunham Student Leadership Award, she also serves as the chair-elect of the Student Foundation, president and treasurer of HCU’s Delta Mu Delta chapter and is also a member of the National Society of Leadership and Success.
Through Dr. Emily Butler’s promotion of the Commercial Banking Certificate program, Josephine learned about and enrolled in the course, finishing it early and earning a visit to Cadence Bank’s headquarters. Tsai credits the visit with opening the door to an internship and ultimately a full-time job opportunity at Cadence back which she will begin this summer.
Her academic drive is matched by her creativity and sense of adventure. Josephine can play five instruments, loves Legos, crocheting, art, and recently began bleach painting. She jokes that she’s always busy and up until this semester, she was taking 17–18 credit hours regularly. Her favorite weather is a cool, rainy day.
Faith is an important cornerstone of Josephine’s life. Raised in a Christian family, she accepted Christ at thirteen and was baptized in secret while living abroad in a country where open Christianity was not permitted. “I actually got baptized in a hot tub and had to do it secretly with my passport, because it was illegal for the citizens in the country I was in to be a Christian,” shared Tsai. She also demonstrated a deep commitment to her faith, going above and beyond the required 80 Community, Life and Worship (CLW) to earn earning 139.
As she prepares to graduate Magna Cum Laude this spring, Josephine is eager to begin her role at Cadence Bank and continue learning in the commercial banking field. She also is considering enrolling in graduate school in the future and perhaps pursuing a PhD. “Part of me just wants to be called ‘Dr. Tsai’ one day,” she laughs.
Whatever her path holds, Josephine is well on her way—with a story of purpose, persistence and passion.