Meet the Team: Sam Shen
Get ready to discover Sam's journey – from baby helmets to music powerhouse, she's truly tech-savvy, a song-belting sensation, and a sushi-loving wonder!
Where are you from?
I was born in San Francisco, California, and grew up in Millbrae, a quaint suburb south of the illustrious city.
Do you miss anything about Millbrae?
I miss the amazing Chinese food there! The best part of the food there is sharing it with my family and loved ones. It keeps me connected to my roots as a first generation Chinese American.
Some of my favorite Chinese dishes include: Har Gow (Shrimp Dumplings), Shumai, and Beef Ho Fun.
Before working at Kosh, what was the most unusual or interesting job you’ve ever had?
When I first graduated college, I worked as a Baby Imaging Specialist (yes, that’s an actual job title) at a clinic in Los Angeles. I would take images of babies' heads that would be used to create medical helmets for them. It was super interesting and fun! I love babies!
What did you dream of “being” when you were in high school?
I dreamt of being a professional singer! I've sung professionally as a worship leader, and I've also gotten an original song (Little Me on Spotify) placed on a TV show called Kung Fu on the CW network. I hope that I can continue to interweave my love for the arts and music into my life and career.
How did you get started in tech?
I got into tech when I realized that I didn't want to be a full-time artist as it can be very stressful. I took a stab at the Google Career Certification in IT Support so I could see whether it was something I could actually do. Lo and behold, it worked out for me!
What makes you really happy?
I got my yoga teacher certification last summer, and it makes me happy to see my students rejuvenated and feeling good after class.
Tell us something about yourself that would surprise us.
I am a language lover. I grew up in a bilingual household and it inspires me to be able to connect with more people around the world with each new language I learn. I speak Cantonese (native fluency), French, Mandarin, and Spanish.
What is the best book you have ever read?
"Ask and It Is Given" by Abraham Hicks. It helped me shift my mindset towards a lot of things. After reading this book, I started to focus my energy on what I wanted in life versus what I didn’t want or what I was lacking.
What is the best concert you attended?
Taylor Swift’s Reputation Tour: 2018. I was on the floor section of the stadium but allllll the way in the back. It was an absolute dream come true when she hopped on a floating transportation device that carried her all the way to the back of the stadium. She had stationed two more stages towards the back of the stadium so she could connect with more of her fans up close. Suddenly, I had front row seats!! She’s simply the best!
If you could only eat one meal for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Sushi.
What would you like to be known for?
I’d like to be known for being a bold, passionate, and loving person.
If you could go back in time, what year would you travel to?
Around 20 CE. I would have liked to meet Jesus in person. What a guy!
What was your favorite subject in school?
English. I love to read and write.
What do you like to write?
I like to write songs, poetry, and I hope to write a novel and a memoir one day!
Would you mind sharing some lyrics with us?
Sure! Here is a snippet from the song, "Little Me":
Every minute Yeah it's worth it It's a blessing or a lesson It's a gift either way Don't let your darkness take out your light Look up and see the stars in your eyes
If you had to change careers, what would you change to?
I’ve changed careers a lot in the past few years. I’m pretty content staying in the tech field! There’s already so much to explore within it!
Do you have a most “exciting” moment?
Probably when I booked a nationwide commercial modeling gig with LensCrafters in 2019! My parents were walking around their local mall, and my dad came out of the bathroom and saw this ad. He thought to himself, “Hey, I know that girl.” It was me!
What is something you are proud of?
My endless pursuit of personal and spiritual growth.
Anything else you would like the public and your Kosh colleagues to know?
I have some original music out on Spotify, Apple Music, Youtube, and virtually everything else. Feel free to check it out! Artist name is my name: Samantha Shen.