AAST Surpasses 100 Minors Milestone!

Spring 2022 – AAST recently enrolled its 101st student into the minor, marking a tremendous milestone for the 22-year-old ethnic studies program. Initially started by student activism and dedicated faculty, AAST now teaches over 500 students every year. 

The 101 students enrolled in the minor represent over 30 majors across various schools on campus, some including Computer Science, Engineering, Government and Politics, Theatre, Finance, and Psychology. Students who enroll into the 15-credit minor have the opportunity to develop and build upon a meaningful community of peers and mentors in the field, while engaging in critical dialogue around current issues facing Asian Americans. Through an interdisciplinary approach, students examine the histories, communities, and cultures of Asian Americans as both distinctive from and connected to the broader themes of diversity, ethnicity, race, gender, sexual orientation, and migration in the Americas. There are also experiential learning opportunities through internships and research courses, and students are encouraged to apply their learning in their respective leadership roles. It is the hope of AAST that while the students pursue various career paths, they each are prepared with the knowledge to navigate and lead in a diverse environment.

AAST Director, Dr. Julie Park, reflects on reaching this achievement: “What an important milestone for our Program! This is the direct result of our committed staff and faculty. They make meaningful connections with our students who want to learn about and engage in Asian American histories, identities, and experiences. How exciting to be a part of such a vibrant and rapidly growing Program.”

This semester, AAST offers nine courses, two of which have multiple sections. AAST is currently in the process of expanding the program to welcome a second full-time lecturer who will provide additional expertise to course offerings. The Program only expects for the minor to continue to grow.