A/P/A BRIDGE was created to cultivate “Asian/Pacific American” (A/PA) as a political identity, by doing the following:

•Creating a safe space for fostering open dialogue and activism around issues of race and racism, culture, and identity
•Exploring the diversity and complexity of Asian/Pacific America in relation to other social identities (ability, age, culture/ethnicity, gender, race, religion/spirituality, sexual orientation, class)
•Educating and empowering individuals to inspire social change
•Building A/PA leaders to bridge communities within NYU and beyond

A/P/A BRIDGE seeks to include a diverse group of student leaders from various backgrounds (race, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, ability, spirituality, academic study, and socioeconomic level). Applicants with a range of experiences are encouraged to apply. A/PA heritage is not required, but an interest in issues affecting A/PA communities is key. Be honest with your answers, keeping responses to within 250 words per question. Interviews may also be requested.

Note: While priority will be given to non-seniors, applicants of all class years are encouraged to apply.

1) APPLY:  Applications due Wednesday, September 14, 2016 by 5:00pm. Applicants will be notified of their acceptance decision by Sunday, September 18, 2016.

2) COMMIT:  By submitting an application, you commit to participating in A/P/A BRIDGE for the duration of the program: October 2016 – April 2017.

3) ORIENTATION:  A mandatory two-hour orientation will take place the week of September 26, 2016 (Date TBD).

4) RETREAT: 3 days, 3 nights: Friday night, October 7 – Monday afternoon, October 10, 2016.

Retreat participation is mandatory. This retreat will be a time for the new BRIDGE cohort to learn and develop leadership and facilitation skills; reflect upon issues of race, ethnicity, and identity; and bond as a group.  

5) FORMAT:  Post-retreat, the group meets weekly to learn and discuss various A/PA issues, and implement discussion, facilitation, and leadership skills. Meetings serve as a time to brainstorm and develop the public events or projects to be held for the larger community throughout the Fall and Spring semesters.

Email Laura Chen-Schultz at A/P/A Institute at apa.institute@nyu.edu.