Our co-founder Shu Yi Zhou was nominated and featured for News12’s segment on Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) month to celebrate those who are making strides in their communities.
How has your background inspired you to create change?
As the first person in my family to graduate middle school, high school, college, and now graduate school – I witnessed firsthand the barriers students with identities parallel to mine experience. From staying up late trying to figure out the in’s and out’s of the uncharted territory of college applications, tediously translating technical terms for my FAFSA application for my mother, to working two jobs while going to school full time just to afford textbooks – I knew my experience wasn’t unique. I wanted to be a part of the change in increasing educational access so students don’t have to go through the same.
What’s one lesson you carry with you to overcome adversity?
“You don’t choose the times you live in, but you do choose who you want to be.”
-Dr. Grace Lee Boggs
When I stepped foot into Harvard Yard for commencement this past year in my cap and gown, the quote by Asian-American activist, professor, and philosopher, Grace Lee Boggs, was at the forefront of my mind. This quote changed the trajectory of my life as a young adult. It was a lightbulb moment when I realized that even though I don’t have control over the hand I’ve been dealt, I do have the opportunity to mold myself into the person I want to become. From there, I was no longer afraid that I wasn’t good enough due to my background, and continuously strived to reach my goals despite the challenges I face.
Why is community so important to you when creating change?
“Beloved community is formed not by the eradication of difference but by its affirmation, by each of us claiming the identities and cultural legacies that shape who we are and how we live in the world.”
-Dr. Bell Hooks
When my students and fellow educators ask me that question, I often respond with this quote by activist, author, and professor, Dr. Bell Hooks. I can never say that I’m a self-made woman as without my community, I would not be where I am today. The people that I’ve met along the way that has served as a compass, beacon, and support for me at every step of my journey. The best part is that they all come from different backgrounds and cultural identities which enabled me to understand situations and challenges from various perspectives and have a better understanding of the world.