“As a first generation low income student, I never believed that I had the potential to attend prestigious pre college programs, or be exposed to a Yale education. Although miles apart, the loving community at Yale Young Global Scholars (YYGS) of instructors and students fostered a memorable connection through academics and deep group discussions, proving that any student, despite their background, is worthy of opportunities.”
I found myself lost and underrepresented without a sense of belonging as a Burmese-American, a “minority” Asian in an otherwise diverse school. I felt detached and voiceless, but I dreamt of establishing unity among all Asians because I wanted to form a safe space filled with camaraderie to discuss social issues. While there were other multicultural clubs, there wasn’t a place representing my community, so I decided to create my own: my school’s first Asian Student Union (ASU).
Founding ASU was only the first step. After the rally, I began collaborating with San Francisco State University professors to plan monthly summits, creating a citywide Asian student sanctuary. Together, we are pushing to make ethnic studies a high school graduation requirement, so students of color can learn about their own heritage. Through my Asian community, I found my voice in advocating for unity among communities of color and I know my social justice roots will follow me.