Spotlight: Rachel Cai

(CEO of Minds Matter SF, 2016–2018)

1. Uh...who Are You?

My name is Rachel, the CEO of Minds Matter San Francisco, and I work at Google in my free time. I enjoy hiking, board games, eating/cooking, and playing with my German Shepherd.

2. What Were You Before Who You Are Now?

I was a young girl who immigrated to the US when she was 5. With hard work, education, high-expectations—Chinese parents, and a bit of luck, I achieved the American Dream.

3. What Do You Think Was the Biggest Turning Point in Your Life?

College was a wake-up call. All my friends, especially ones who attended private schools, seemed better prepared for college. I did not know how to write college essays or read academic papers. After struggling hard my freshman year, I adapted and learned how to lean on my strengths.

4. What Do You Wish You Could Tell Yourself When You Graduated High School?

I would’ve told myself to buy Apple and Google stock. But in the context of this question, I would've told myself to try all the things and go out of my comfort zone.

5. What Would You Have Told Yourself Something at the Beginning of College?

I wish I studied abroad for a semester or year, and I wish I took more classes that were interesting rather than advanced.

6. What About at the End of College?

I wouldn't do anything differently than I did it. :)

7. Any Life Wisdom You Want to Share?

If you have the means and time, travel the world and immerse yourself in new cultures.