The ASA Newsletter: Issue 36
Hooray! School is out and summer is here.
Keep reading to see what Asian Student Achievement has in store!
One Month for ASA Recap
We want to extend a sincere heartfelt thanks to everyone that contributed to our One Month for ASA campaign. Your gifts help ASA achieve our mission of teaching students and young professionals the soft skills needed to help them advance their careers.
Thank you to Wesselink Family Foundation and Mr. Leon Chang for their generous support of Asian Student Achievement (ASA), combining their gifts to match up to $15,000 during our One Month for ASA!
Coach Corner: Jordan Shyi
Jordin Shyi
Director of Intercultural Affairs College of New Jersey
Why did you decide to become a coach for ASA?
I recognize many of the socialized limitations that are put on young Asian students and aspiring professionals, in terms of the careers they pursue or areas in which they may excel in. Additionally, there aren’t ample opportunities for personal and professional development for school-aged children outside of academics if a student isn’t actively engaged in athletics or a team-oriented club.
I’ve always focused my attention on supporting individuals to find and own their strengths and how to sharpen their ability to let those areas shine on a team or workplace.
What is a skill set that you recommend young professionals acquire before entering the workforce?
Clear communication and self-advocacy first, then networking and continuous learning. Being able to write well, ask good questions, explain your work, receive feedback, speak up when needed, build relationships, and stay curious will help in almost any workplace.
Back to ASA: Rehman Khalid
Student at University of Cincinnati
Major: Computer Science
Rehman Khalid is in his final year in at the University of Cincinnati completing his Bachelor’s degree in computer science. He is also a former intern for Asian Student Achievement (ASA). Khalid sat down with us to share his takeaways from the internship and his advice for other students searching for opportunities.
Tell us about what you are doing now. Currently in still in collage finishing my final year for my degree in computer science. I’m also now interning at Siemens as a software engineer, this is my second rotation here.
What was the greatest takeaway from your ASA internship?
My greatest takeaway is have grit for everything you do. Success is rarely a straight road. If you don’t succeed the first time try and try again.
What advice do you have for students trying to land their first internship or interviewing for their first full-time job?
My advice is to have real interest in the industry you want to intern in. Have projects outside of school and show that interest in the industry that you can convey to an interviewer. Genuine interest is the best quality an interviewer can see and can really put you ahead of other candidates.
Welcome To the Team!
We are excited to welcome Mel Ogawa, our Special Operations Intern!
Student at UC San Diego
Major: Human Resources
Why did you decide to intern with Asian Student Achievement?
I chose to join ASA because I strongly believe in its mission and its commitment to diversifying leadership representation. As a Japanese woman, I understand the unique challenges that can come with entering the workforce, and I am passionate about helping young professionals achieve their career goals.
This internship is an incredible opportunity to learn from inspiring mentors such as Mr. Carlin and Ms. Amelia while gaining hands-on experience in operations, HR, and content writing. Working with ASA will allow me to further develop my professional skills and build meaningful connections within the industry.
I am excited for the opportunities and growth that come with being part of such a impactful organization as ASA.
Intern Hub: Penny Soh
Penny Soh is student at the University of Washington, and a Content & Grant Writing Intern for Asian Student Achievement. We sat down with her to hear about the benefits of her ASA internship.
Student at University of Washington
Major: Pre-Law, Social Sciences
How has your experience working with ASA impacted your professional growth?My internship at ASA has supported my professional growth by strengthening my communication and collaboration skills, as well as my confidence in professional settings. I have been met with an incredible support network that offers constructive feedback without shame or judgment.
As a first-generation Korean American, I have often felt the pressure of navigating my career entirely on my own, which is why having ASA as a community dedicated to my professional growth means so much to me.
Past Event: ASA & Rizal Center Networking event
AThank you to everyone who joined us for our Network Like You Want Dinner Tonight event this past Saturday! It was a wonderful evening of networking, meaningful conversations, and new connections.
A special thank you to the Rizal Center for partnering with us for this event. We are also grateful to our donors, sponsors, and community partners whose support makes our work possible.
Thank You to Our Sponsors:
Engage with Asian Student Achievement
Sign up for 1:1 Coaching
ASA is excited to launch our coaching program! We have carefully selected coaches from various industries to speak with YOU.
Intern with Us!
Asian Student Achievement is now hiring for all intern positions! Join our team and help support Asians and Asian Americans on their path to leadership in the workplace.
Let’s Meet Up!
Want to invite us to your campus or organization? Visit our speaking engagement page to learn more.
Donor Spotlight: Allen Tang
Manager at PwC
Why do you give to Asian Student Achievement?
I chose to donate to Asian Student Achievement because I support the mission, giving back, and helping others. I believe it’s the duty of everyone to give back to help the next generation of leaders.
The Elizabeth Lorraine Skoien Memorial
We honor the legacy of Elizabeth Lorraine Skoien, a young woman who took her life too soon, and the challenges she faced. The ASA team has compiled mental health resources from Asian and Asian American perspectives on our website, and hopes to encourage more dialogue around the pivotal role mental health plays.
Read our blog about Elizabeth’s life and her father’s commitment to raising mental health awareness. Be sure to explore our additional blogs and mental health resources available throughout the year as we continue to promote education, understanding, and support for mental wellness.
Job Postings
See our featured jobs
Search for job opportunities from companies committed to DEI.
Our Partners
We are deeply grateful to our partners for their ongoing collaboration and support. Together, we are creating meaningful impact.
Settle into Asian inspired scents to light up your home. Use code ASA10 to save 10% off your order.
ASA x Furever Young Co collaboration pet bandanas are the perfect accessory for your pet. Shop the ASA collection!
Start your mornings with specialty Filipino coffee. Use code ASA10 to save 10% off your order.