Student Highlights

Jerald Lipa: Outstanding Graduating Senior in Asian Studies

Majoring in Asian Studies was something that I had never imagined doing. Upon transferring from community college with an associate degree in Asian American Studies, I discovered that SDSU did not yet offer that specific major. On a whim, I applied for a bachelor’s in Asian Studies instead, and switching to Asian Studies turned out to be one of the best decisions I have ever made. 

I fell in love with Asian Studies even more than Asian American Studies. I realized that I yearned for more than the Asian American experience alone; I craved the histories, cultures, identities, and government systems of the Asia-Pacific region. I truly believe there was no better place for me to learn about Asian Studies than SDSU. 

I focused heavily on Japan–learning the language (which I continue to practice), its beautiful culture, its rich history, and its political systems. From the supportive environment cultivated by the professors to the community connections fostered by the CAPS, I felt blessed to experience everything the program has to offer. Every professor I took a course with–including cross-listed classes–was wonderful. They truly care about their impact on students and what we take away from their classes. Each of them taught me something valuable that I will carry with me forever. 

Asian Studies is also the reason I have grown so much as a student and as an individual. I used to be too reserved, only speaking when spoken to, and presentations always made me tremble. With the help of my professors and my growing confidence, I broke out of that shell. Dr. Jecelyn Killmer encouraged me to present at SDSU’s Student Symposium, teaching me to share my research with confidence. Through the Asian Studies internship coordinated by Dr. Minjeong Kim, I improved my networking, presentation, and people skills by conducting outreach at local community colleges. Now I no longer stutter during presentations and can treat them as engaging conversations rather than memorized scripts.

Alongside my studies, I have been taking IT certification courses. I was initially torn between a career in tech or Asian Studies. However, after seeing how tech and Asian Studies can blend–specifically through research on AI, government systems, and cultures in the Asia-Pacific–I became inspired to combine both fields. This was made possible by the AI in China and Southeast Asia” panel that Dr. Kim organized; I am now fully confident in how I will pair my IT certifications with my Bachelor’s in Asian Studies.

 

Meleana Love Suarez: Political Science Major, Asian Studies Minor, & CAPS student assistant (2025-2026) 

 

Haley Rodales Ceja: Asian Studies major

My Study Abroad Experience

Since high school, I have been interested in learning about other cultures, especially Asian culture. I am therefore beyond grateful that I was able to spend this past summer studying abroad in Seoul, South Korea. Although it felt short, this two-week course was a rewarding experience. We visited several historical and cultural sites that helped us understand different aspects of Korean society. We also explored how cultural, social, and political events influence Korean art today by visiting a few modern and contemporary museums. 

Besides staying in Seoul, we also got to explore two other cities, Icheon and Geongju. In Icheon, we explored the Ceramics Village and had hands-on experience painting ceramic mugs and learning the spinning wheel. This was a fun interactive activity that helped me develop an appreciation for ceramic arts. In Geongju, we explored the Ancient Kingdom of Silla and visited the Seokguram grotto and Bulguksa temple, which showed us how Buddhism played a role in the Silla Kingdom.

Visiting the temples up in the mountains was one of my favorite experiences. It allowed me to see a different side of Korean culture. In the United States, we typically focus on major historical sites and events while studying other cultures. Even on social media, you will mostly see popular and touristy attractions. As a result, I enjoyed the course’s itinerary because we covered topics and visited places that were less known but are still an important part of Korean culture. 

Studying abroad made my passion for learning about cultures even greater, not only was it informative but it also allowed me to get out of my comfort zone and meet new people. I am grateful to the people I met and the memories we shared, they made this experience even more memorable.

I am beyond grateful to The Center for Asian and Pacific Studies for supporting my Study Abroad experience and Professor Uhm for a memorable and rewarding experience.