Amy Lee – Co-founder and President of UCI’s Taiwanese American Organization

Irvine, CA

Who are you?

I’m a 4th year Psychology and Anthropology double major at UC Irvine and the co-founder and the current president of the first Taiwanese American student organization at University of California, Irvine. Though I’m facing some panic attacks here and there for my own future as a graduating senior, my team and I have had a great first year at UC Irvine and can’t wait to see our club grow in the future.

What do you do?

At the end of my 3rd year at UC Irvine, a group of people that I met came together and put together a small Taiwanese American student club, the Taiwanese American Organization. We were expecting 30 people to show up at our first general meeting, but instead, we had a bit more than what we bargained for… we drew over 200 people. This past year, we’ve won the census project competition sponsored by the Taiwanese American Citizens League, been recognized as the best new TASA by the Intercollegiate Taiwanese American Students Association, and have organized numerous outreach projects. We started the club thinking it was a one year thing, but now we have a group of great potentials ready to take the club to the next level.

Why are you proud to be of Taiwanese heritage?

I was born in Buffalo, NY. Over the past 22 years, I’ve lived in Irvine, CA, Auckland, New Zealand, Houston, TX, and Hsin Chu, Taiwan. Everywhere I’ve been, my heritage stands out –the rich history, the beautiful culture, the yummy food, and the complex politics remain a big part of me.

What does the future of Taiwanese America look like to you?

I see a strong community that continuously fosters leaders in every field, and a community that is accepting of all identities.

Any additional information you would like to share?

www.taouci.com
www.facebook.com/taouci
www.youtube.com/taouci