THE KOREA SOCIETY

I grew up in Queens which has exposed me to cultures from all over the globe. From Chinatown in Flushing to Corona to Jackson Heights, I embark on a voyage around the world when I take the 7 train; a daily experience that has taught me to appreciate the different cultures and languages that make up New York City. Attending a film school, I have always sought to pursue journalism, history, and politics, using documentary film- making to amplify the voices of marginalized communities. At school, I am part of the Cooking Club, Peer Group Connection (PGC) leadership team, and the Production Design Cohort, where I have designed the concepts for some of my school’s largest film productions. Outside of school, I have interned at the New York Historical Society and the Hill Art Foundation, taken art classes at Parsons School of Design for five semesters, and been part of the Freedom and Citizenship Program at Columbia University where I seek to make civics more accessible to teens.

Born and raised in the Bronx, I come from a large Kittitian family full of different kinds of personalities, so I’m no stranger to diversity. What moved me to become a person who loved culture was my passion for etymology and how language and communication can vary by location and people, and I’m excited to see this exemplified in Korea. At school, I engage in journalism by collecting media for our social media pages and morning announcements at school events through interviews and recording videos. When I’m not at school, I also spend time at Summer Search, a non profit organization that aims to help students of marginalized identities thrive in the world, offering high school and post high school guidance, and helping students to realize their full potential through mentoring from both Summer Search employees and even other Summer Search students.

I am from Brooklyn, New York, and my family is of both Pakistani and German descent. Growing up with two families of differing cultures has taught me about the importance of cross-cultural understanding and open-minded discourse between groups. At school, I am a member of the Junior Student Leadership class and a coach for the Model United Nations team. Outside of the classroom, I am a Youth Researcher and leadership team member at The Localized History Project, a youth-participatory action research initiative that amplifies Asian-American history and education within the five boroughs. I am also the Brooklyn Hub Coordinator for Generation Vote, where I facilitate civic engagement in high schools and universities across the borough. On my own time I enjoy rock climbing and reading.

Junior at the Urban Assembly School for Leadership and Empowerment. I was born and raised in Brooklyn and am an American-born Chinese student who is passionate about learning and personal growth. At school, I am a member of the varsity volleyball team and participate in track and field, which has taught me discipline, teamwork, and perseverance. Outside of school, I also volunteer by playing and working with children at my local elementary school and church, which has strengthened my sense of responsibility and community involvement. Through academics, athletics, and service, I strive to better understand the world around me and contribute positively to my school and community. I am motivated to take advantage of opportunities that help me grow academically and personally, and I look forward to continuing to learn, lead, and make an impact.

I was born and raised in Queens and have always been surrounded by immigrants and diverse cultures which has helped me not only understand the struggles of immigrants but also their resilience. It has exposed me to new cultures and helped me become an open- minded person. In my neighborhood, I am immersed in a strong variety of Hispanic cultures, and at my school, I am surrounded by strong Asian cultures. I am a musician specializing in mariachi music and violin. I’ve participated in programs like BEAM, Double Discovery Center, and now Project Bridge. At school, I am currently involved in the LatinX Club and Tri-M Music Honor Society, and have been a teachers assistant for several teachers. I am also an altar server at my church every Saturday as part of my community service.