A Conversation with Chris Lam

What’s up everyone! My name is Kyle Dinh. I’m currently an intern for APASA and am also a member of VSA and KASA. If you went to the APASA meeting on November 6, then you know that Chris Lam came to visit USC and spoke about his thoughts on Asian representation in media and gave tips for working in the news industry. If you didn’t, then don’t worry! I’m here to give you a summary of his discussion.

Personally, I loved meeting and listening to Chris because I believe he gave very truthful answers, and it seemed like he thought about his answers before saying them. He talked from the heart and wasn’t afraid to speak his mind, while also being careful of insulting individuals of different backgrounds. I also had a personal liking to him because he gave me advice on starting my YouTube Channel next semester. I’ve been editing and making videos for a few years now, but have a little anxiety with posting them online. However, Chris told me that his only tips are for me to just push yourself to start. It doesn't matter what equipment you have or the amount of people that watch you, as an aspiring Youtuber, you just need to take that first step and post your first video. Afterwards, doing it again won’t be as hard ,and you can start to make it into a fun activity for you and others to watch.

As for the Asian American representation in social media, Chris expressed how little there is and how difficult it was for him to be where he is now. I’m honestly very impressed at how Chris had climbed his way from Buzzfeed to YouTube. He also described how being in a club whose population consists of many Asian Americans helped him act more natural and realistic. His discussion personally made me feel more welcomed in my Asian Pacific American clubs and should encourage others with similar difficulties expressing themselves to do the same. Chris was also nice enough to spent his own personal time to stay behind and answer other people’s questions and take photos with them. Luckily, I got a photo with him, and I think we look good! I hope to see him again soon and hear more of his experience and tips in social media. He does many shows and events in California, so be sure to check him out whenever you can. He’ll even like your posts if you tag him in it!

Overall, good luck with everyone on their midterms and exams. The end of the semester is almost here, and that means death week is around the corner. Remember to get enough sleep and give it your all. Fight On!

Kyle and Chris!