USPAACC Reflection

I remember not too long ago searching strenuously for college scholarships.  Any support for my college fund would have been helpful no matter its quantity.  I explored online, in 1000-page books, and of course, my school counseling office. When I stumbled across the USPAACC scholarship I was extremely excited because I fit all the requirements.  I was glad to be an Asian American.  I quickly filled out my application and sent it in.  I had no idea that along with this scholarship would be a glimpse into how amazing the Asian American community is.
 

One morning before school, I received a long distance phone call.  The voice on the other end informed me that I had been selected as one of the scholarship recipients.  I was so excited that as soon as I got off the phone, I woke up my mom to tell her the good news (and she is not pleasant in the mornings).  Along with the scholarship came a trip to Irvine, California.  What a package!  The United States Pan Asian American Chamber of Commerce convention was truly an empowering experience.
 

Growing up in moderately non-Asian communities, I had hardly witnessed the congregation of many Asian Americans, except at church.  The USPAACC convention however, brought together hundreds of Asian Americans from all over the country.  The program was extensive with many corporations involved.  All of the participants were excited to take part in the event in order to create a better network of relationships in our community.
 

I was extremely impressed with the dinner on the last evening. It was a beautiful event.  The stage was especially spectacular.  I was so honored to have been invited to eat dinner in front of so many distinguished figures.

For the past couple of years, I have wanted to pursue a career in journalism and receiving the CBS scholarship will definitely help my future.  Meeting Sachi Koto was another special treat. I often watch her report on CNN and it was such a pleasure to be able to speak with her and ask her for advice.  She has truly been an inspiration for me.
 

One of the best parts about the convention was meeting the other scholarship recipients.  Every one of them was really friendly and amazing in so many different ways. We got a chance to share our experiences as well as our aspirations.  It was a great way for us to begin networking with each other.  Hopefully these relationships will continue in the future. Among our generation we will try to continue these strong ties that our models have paved before us.
 

The USPAACC convention has opened my eyes to the world of Asian culture. I have never been more proud to be an Asian American.  I thank you for this opportunity that I will never forget.  My future will be more successful from this experience.  This scholarship will help in my success and brining me back to the 30^th Annual USPAACC convention one day.