APASA organizes an array of programs to help students succeed at The University of Arizona. We believe that no two students are alike and that each individual who comes to APASA has unique needs that change over time. By providing programs that address a variety of topics, we hope to support both the academic success as well as the personal and professional development of our students.
While all students experience some amount of difficulty while transitioning to college, research shows that Asian Pacific Islander Desi American (APIDA) students at The University of Arizona may experience some particular challenges.
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Our Student Success Programs are based on the following core competencies designed to uniquely meet the needs of our student population:
Academic Excellence
APASA supports student academic excellence by organizing workshops focused on helping students develop effective study skills and academic success strategies. Additionally, the Center offers quiet study space and free access to a writing skills tutor.
Identify Development
The APIDA student population at The University of Arizona is extremely diverse. It encompasses not only East and Southeast Asian cultures but Pacific Islanders, Desi or South Asians, and Multiracial/Hapa students. APASA offers all students a variety of opportunities to learn about the rich diversity of APIDA cultures through workshops, literature, and other hands-on experiences.
Multicultural Competence and Racial Awareness
While focusing on individual identity development is extremely important, there is also much value in exploring and understanding other cultures, and the impact that race and racism have on people of Asian, Pacific Islander and Desi heritage in the United States. Through workshops, partnerships with other units within Multicultural Affairs and Student Success, and cultural outings, we give students a chance to build their multicultural competence in order to become informed citizens in our ever-increasing global society.
Leadership and Career Development
Through partnerships with the Center for Student Involvement and Leadership and Career Services, APASA provides students with a variety of activities designed to encourage leadership, activism and involvement on campus while preparing for successful careers after college.
Mental Health and Wellness
APASA actively encourages students to maintain a healthy balance between working hard and taking care of their physical, emotional, and mental wellness. Managing stress, eating a healthy diet and participating in appropriate levels of physical activity all play major roles in student success.
Working with Parents
Familial responsibilities and expectations have a significant impact on students while attending the university. APASA recognizes the investment a family makes when they send their student to college and we strive to work with our parents to help both our students and their families successfully navigate the transition from high school to university studies. Go to the people. Learn from them. Live with them. Start with what they know. Build with what they have. The best of leaders when the job is done, when the task is accomplished, the people will say we have done it ourselves. -- Lao Tzu