MUNCIE, Ind. — The Asian Student Union, a student-led group, held a growing-up Asian event. During this event, students were able to share their stories. They talked about various topics, such as growing up in predominantly white towns and what it is like to be a minority. This event gave students the opportunity to speak freely without any judgment and to people who really understand where they are coming from.
“I was one of only four Indians, and out of that, only 15 Asians in my entire high school,” said a member of ASU, Doondee Patnala.
Many of these students were affected by stereotypes or were expected to be something they weren’t. Stereotypes can put a lot of pressure on young adults, and they may struggle with their own identity, so being a part of a club may remind them of who they are and who they want to be. Many students can lose sight of their culture when entering college and feel disconnected from who they are.
“I felt like there was really a need for other Asians and Indians to really find out the fact that there are others like us who felt through the same things,” said Patnala. “Who’ve been through the American school system that understands what it’s like to be lost in a sea of other people who look nothing like you.”
ASU provides an outlet for students to feel reconnected with their culture and feel like they are at home.
Contact Cameron Noe with comments at cameron.noe@bsu.edu.
