APASA Spotlight: Jessica Kim

Why did you apply to APASA?

I did a lot of student government in middle and high school, and I knew it was something I wanted to pursue again in college because I think working hard with a driven team to make a place better is one of the most fulfilling things you can do in school. I applied to APASA specifically because I wanted a tight-knit community that knows how to have fun while doing real, demanding and meaningful work. I got everything I wanted, and more, out of APASA so far.

Favorite APASA memory so far:

All the events have a special part in my heart, but my favorite moments are the simple ones. I look forward to Mondays because I get to see my APASA friends and family for two hours. I love doing serious work with them and learning new things with them while still enjoying each other’s company.

A significant cultural milestone for you:

Subtle Asian Traits; the whole Asian diaspora coming together to make our own culture and identity is such a significant milestone. We are coming to terms with the fact that we are a blend of multiple cultures, that we are different from our parents, that we are different from many of our friends, but that's okay and we're not alone in our struggles to find out who we are and where we belong!

What does being APA mean to you?

Being APA means understanding what it means to be a minority in the United States while still recognizing the power we have to make an impact and bring about changes in our communities and this country.

If you could plan any event at USC, what would it be?

A sleepover-esque meeting for the women and non-binary members of APASA where we talk about what it means to be a minority within a minority.

What is your long-term goal for APASA? 

1. To continue making space for the APA community on campus; 2. to connect with the larger APA community of Los Angeles; 3. to work with other minority groups on campus to learn from each other; 4. to continue our efforts in more accurately representing the diversity within the APA community; 5. to continue helping people in their search to figure out who they are and who they want to be.

Thank you Jessica!