University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL
I hope that this organization continues its long legacy of producing leaders who persevere to understand the Taiwanese and Taiwanese American identity.
Who are you?
I am a senior in broadcast journalism at the U of I. I was bitten by the entertainment bug my freshman year in college and decided I wanted to be a singer. After a short stint in Taiwan and two songs released on kkbox, I believe I have a much more realistic view of what I can and cannot do as a musician.
I currently intern at WICD ABC Newschannel 15, Illini Productions, and Palestra.net/UWire. In a strange twist of fate, two of the three places I work at deal with sports. I knew nothing about sports until I began the jobs. Now, I’m one of those crazy people who scream at the T.V., thinking that it will actually change the outcome of the game.
I hope that in the future, I will have spare time to do some music gigs while working as a journalist. But for the time being, I am relieved that – as much as I adore her – I will not be like Robin from “How I Met Your Mother.” You know, with that blackmail-worthy music video floating around.
Tell us about your organization / project, your role, and its impact?
The Taiwanese American Students Club at the U of I is a vibrant group that strives to build a family-like community that understands Taiwanese culture and appreciates Taiwanese American and Asian American identity. TASC gives students opportunities to learn about the needs and problems of the APA community while molding leaders out of these students to address those concerns.
As VP-External, I serve as the external liaison for the organization and maintain active relations with the APA community. I also oversee the Cultural Advocacy chairs.
More importantly, my position as VP-External allows me to witness all the blood, sweat and tears the board members put in to running TASC. I see their desire to make the events enjoyable for participants. I see their creativity come alive with each new idea to help better this organization. I see the pride they have in their identity and their eagerness to share that pride.
My experience with other student organizations has shown me that TASC is exemplary in its ability to produce fun and informative events, handle internal programming and instill passion in its members.
Where do you find your inspiration and motivation as a student leader?
TASC board is where I draw my inspiration and motivation to be a student leader. It’s incredible how one person can make such an impact in the board itself – to imagine that one person’s impact in the community! I am blessed to be able to participate in TASC and share what abilities I have in making this organization the best it can be.
What is your vision for the organization / project and the role that it may play in the broader community?
I hope to see TASC not just flourish individually, but alongside of the rest of the APA community. I hope that this organization continues its long legacy of producing leaders who persevere to understand the Taiwanese and Taiwanese American identity.
Any additional information you would like to share?
My blog! mootastrophe.wordpress.com
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