Bobcat Stories

Christine Phan ’16 found her way back to Bosque School with a passion for education, athletics, and community. Christine earned a bachelor’s degree in International Studies with a minor in Mandarin Chinese from the University of New Mexico and then received her master’s of Business Administration, also from UNM. During her undergraduate years, she studied in Seoul, South Korea, in the summer of 2017 and in the spring of 2022. 

Christine, who has always loved working with kids and values education, initially planned to become a teacher. However, in college, she explored a different path — international business and world travel — but coaching volleyball after the pandemic reignited her passion for education and mentorship. She’s continuing to explore a future in teaching by shadowing her former 12th-grade calculus teacher, Mr. Middleton.

Christine’ academic achievements include being named a Yale Book Award recipient during her junior year of high school, membership in Tri-M Music Honor Society, Spanish Honor Society, and Latin Honor Society, and graduating with honors (Mirabilus Gradibus). At UNM, Christine was named to the School of Arts and Sciences Dean’s List multiple times.

Reflecting on her time as a student at Bosque School, Christine credits the humanities department as especially influential. Beginning in 6th grade, she developed strong writing and critical thinking skills that prepared her for major thesis projects and confident public speaking. Presenting her work at Colloquium helped her grow comfortable sharing ideas with broad audiences — an experience she continues to value today. She also emphasizes the importance of teachers who challenged her academically while offering unwavering support during difficult moments.

As a student, Christine was most involved in Bosque volleyball, playing from 7th through 11th grade. Even after a serious back injury ended her volleyball career in her senior year, she remained connected to the team, learning valuable lessons in resilience, perseverance, and adaptability. She was also active in the Student League for Equity and Diversity (SLED), a group that fostered dialogue around social justice and equity. Through SLED, Christine helped organize monthly get-togethers that welcomed students from Bosque School and across Albuquerque to engage in meaningful conversations.

Just as she was when she was a student, now that Christine is working at Bosque, she is deeply involved in campus life. She currently co-teaches 6th and 7th-grade physical education, serves as part of the resource team, and coaches volleyball. Working with middle schoolers has been a joyful and energizing change. “They’re so fun and always keep things interesting,” she shares. Christine feels her own Bosque School experience was “nothing short of transformative and impactful,” giving her tools she continues to rely on well beyond graduation.

Outside of work, Christine finds joy in trying new restaurants with friends (usually followed by ice cream), playing Animal Crossing (currently redesigning her island), staying active with volleyball, and diving into graphic design and arts-and-crafts projects.

Christine is also helping bring the Bosque School community together beyond campus. Plans are underway for a special 10-year reunion for the class of 2016. Alumni are encouraged to complete the Google form or contact Christine directly at christine.phan@bosqueschool.org with questions or ideas. Faculty members interested in attending or participating in the celebration are warmly invited to connect.