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Asian Pacific Islander Desi American/Asian (APIDA) Resources

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Resources

  • History of APA Heritage Month in the United States

    • In 1977, both the US House and US Senate each proposed legislation (House Joint Resolution 540 and Senate Joint Resolution 72) to name the week of 7-10 May 1978 as Pacific/Asian Heritage American Week. Both bills failed to pass.

    • In 1978, the US House and US Senate proposed and passed joint legislation (House Joint Resolution 1007), which President Jimmy Carter signed, to name the 7 days starting 4 May 1979 as Pacific/Asian Heritage American Week.

    • For the following subsequent years it was passed by Congress and signed by the sitting President annually.

    • In 1990 the US Congress extended the observance of heritage week to the full month of May (House Joint Resolution 3802)

    • Since 1990 US Presidents have issued proclamations acknowledging APA Heritage Month.


    • May was selected as the commemoration month for the following reasons:
      • Acknowledging the migration of the first immigrants from Japan on 7 May 1843
      • The completion of the transcontinental railroad on 10 May 1869, also known as Gold Spike Day

    • The Proclamations are examples of the evolution of the terminology used for the community:
      • Proclamations were initially issued with Asian Pacific American (APA), as used in legislation
      • It evolved to Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI), when President Barack Obama began issuing the annual proclamation
      • President Joseph Biden has continued to evolve the classification to further example the pan-ethnic community by using Asian American and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander (AANHPI). 

     

    References:

  • History of the Asian Pacific American Student Organization (APASO)
    Excerpt from the APASO 25th Anniversary Celebration:

    In 1982, Asians living in the United States were reminded that the were just as vulnerable to radically-motivated hate crimes as other people of color were with the brutal murder of Vincent Chin, which happened in our backyard of Detroit Michigan. From this tragedy, Asian Pacific Americans began to realize that the general populace knoew little about who "those Asian people," the ones who lived next foor to them, the ones they went to school with, the ones who worked in the next cubicle, and the ones who operated the corner convenience store. All Asian looked alike, and therefore, regardless of the ethnic and cultural distinctions we had, nobody cared becuase nobody knew any better, especially in the MidWest where Asians were few and far between. Nationally, many ethnic Asian communties became outraged by the grossly lenient verdict of Chin's perpetrators, who to this day, have never served a single day in jail for committing this murder. APA communities began to understand the need to organize and form a more united and collective identity if yheir outrage was to be heard. It was time to organize. 

     

    During this time, a Japanese American graduate student, SAndy Tsuneyoshi, had come to Michigan State to pursue her graduate studies in Clinical Psychology. SHe had grown up in Hawaii, served in VISTA in the heart of the Deep South, and was poised to change the world. Sandy did just that, at Michigan State University. After serving on a panel to talk about Asian Americans, Sandy was approached by certain administrations (in particular Dr. June Lee, who at the time was the Counseling Center's Director), who asked her to find other Asian Pacific American students who may have shared similar issues of isolation and lack of support that Sandy spoke of. Fron there, Sandy organized a small group of undergraduate students who met in a classroom upstairs in Olds Hall in November 1982. WHile debating on what to call this new student group, they also shared similar complaints about the cafeteria's poorly-cooked rice, about how they were always mistaken for being an international student, and how they knew they needed to change their major from "pre-med" becuase chemistry hadn't been kind to them. Being from various ethnicities and from vastly different backgrounds, this group of students began to learn from each other and share with the rest of campus who Asian Pacific Americans were, as they built the foundation for a pan-Asian, collective Asian Pacific American community at Michigan State. 

     

    Through APASO, APA students' concerns and experiences began to be heard. Colectively as a racial ethnic minority student community, the students of APASO lobbied for key positions in the university that provided outreach and services to Asian Apcifica American students. The struggle to come into the University's consciousness is APASO's greatest accomplishment. Today, twenty-five years later, through APASO's advocacy , various positions exist in many deparmtents which seek staff who can effectively serve APA students such as: the Aide Program, the Counseling Center/MECCA, the Undergraduate University Division, the Office of Supportive Services, the Office of Admissions & Schoalrship and the Office of Cultural and Academic Transitions.

     

    Twenty-five years later, APASO continues to thrive and grow, creating new history and impacting MSU history, with each year passing. 

  • MSU APIDA Voices

    MSU APIDA Heritage Month is driven by decades of advocacy - MSU Today, 22 March 2022

    Student View: On being Hmong American - MSU Today, 16 March 2022

    I'm Nick, and I am a Spartan - MSU Today, 15 March 2022

    Student View: Coming into my identity - MSU Today, 29 March 2021

  • 2022 Career Panels

    Pursuing Graduate School

     

    Pursuing Law School

     

    Health Professional School

     

    Careers: Art, Design, Entertainment and Communications

     

    Careers: Data, Analytics, Technology and Engineering

     

    Careers: Healthcare, Public Life, and Life & Lab Sciences

     

    Careers: Government, Law, International Affairs and Policy

     

    Careers: Business, Management, Sales, Consulting

     

    Careers: Nonprofit, Education and Social Impact

 

 

Campus Departments, Offices and Programs

  • Asian Pacific Islander (APA) Studies Program

    APA Studies Progam Website

    Minor: Asian Studies

     

    The Asian Pacific American (APA) Studies program offers undergraduate courses, two undergraduate minors, and graduate advising for students at MSU. The program promotes a broad understanding of the histories, cultures, and contemporary concerns of diverse Asian Pacific Islander Desi American (APIDA) peoples in the US and the Asian Diaspora. Deeply rooted in experiences of racially minoritized people in America who came from all parts of Asia and the Pacific region, the APA Studies program is dedicated to achieving Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) across and beyond MSU campus. The program is also a vibrant, active center for all members of the MSU community interested in the experiences of APIDAs as part of richly diverse US society, culture, and politics in both national and international contexts.

    The APA Studies program makes connections with local Michigan and Midwestern APIDA communities. The APIDA population in Michigan is rapidly growing, with increasing numbers of students enrolling at MSU. Between 1990 and 2010, Michigan’s APIDA population more than doubled, and the state now has the second-largest APIDA community in the Midwest. 

    Focusing on race, migration, globalization, and diaspora, the APA Studies program provides opportunities to explore the future of diversity in a global era. The program’s attention to Michigan APIDA populations—many of whom maintain transnational connections to their homelands in Asia—allows for the exploration of the local effects of global processes. Given the role of Asia and Asian immigrants in the new global economy, politics, and culture, APIDA communities are key starting points from which to examine processes of globalization that impact the changing face of US diversity.

    APA Studies at MSU explores the history, media, art, and literature of APIDA people and expands on these areas with strengths in the social sciences, particularly anthropology, history, sociology, and psychology. This social science perspective facilitates the study of important contemporary transformations in US society and the Asian diaspora, strengthening the university’s mission to foster DEI, as well as global awareness and citizenship through community research, teaching, and outreach.

  • Asian Studies Center

    Asian Studies Center Website

     

    The Asian Studies Center at Michigan State University directs one of the largest, most diverse programs of education about Asia in the Midwest. Unlike other programs, the Center is distinguished by its approach to East, Central, North, West, South, and Southeast Asia in the design of its curriculum, focus on faculty research, and outreach activities. Presently, the Center’s 220+ affiliated faculty members represent 41 academic departments in all of MSU's 17 colleges.

    The Center provides support to both undergraduate and graduate students through scholarships and a paper competition with awards for their pursuit of Asian language training, area studies, international studies, or the international aspects of professional studies.

  • AsiaNexus

    AsiaNexus Website

     

    MSU’s AsiaNexus offers an enhanced platform for expanded faculty and student engagement in Asia by engaging key partners, exploring new strategies to co-fund and leverage investments, and facilitating collaborations to advance integrated research and novel academic programming. In this way, the AsiaNexus platform offers unique partnership models that embody the strategic dimensions of MSU’s international objectives: innovating global solutions, creating global citizens, and generating global investment. AsiaNexus partners and research teams are creating a synergistic network of networks within and across Central Eurasia, East Asia, South Asia, Southeast Asia, and the world in order to advance the frontiers of knowledge while building capacity among all partners to address global challenges, particularly within the context of food and agriculture; education and capacity building; health and nutrition; and environment, water, and energy.
  • College of Education

    College of Education Website

    Major: Teaching Foreign Languages
     

    Innovative teacher education programs, outstanding faculty, relationships with practicing educators and strong research opportunities make Michigan State University a dynamic place for learning to teach and to contribute to the fields of education and kinesiology. The college is proud to claim more than 58,000 alumni, each touching lives in their own way around the world.

  • Counseling and Psychiatric Services (CAPS)

    CAPS Website

     

    Our team will provide services or connect you with resources to support your mental health journey. These include short-term individual counseling, group counseling, medication, referrals to other services, and more. While you consider these options, you can also learn more about what you can do now for your mental health and explore self-guided resources.


    Virtual and in-person mental health services are available. Learn more about the availability of our services.

    If you do not have a scheduled appointment, or are not already established with CAPS, you can get started with CAPS by scheduling an initial consultation here. During your first appointment, we'll discuss your needs and help you get connected with available resources on or off-campus. Learn more about our service availability here.


    CAPS provides free, remote crisis services 24/7/365. If you or another student/friend is in crisis and needs to talk with someone, call CAPS Crisis Line at (517) 355-8270 and press “1” when prompted to speak with a crisis counselor.

    CAPS also periodically provides identity-based support groups and programs for the APIDA community.

  • Department of History

    Department of History Website 

    Major: Global History
  • Department of Linguistics, Languages, and Cultures

    Department of Linguistics, Languages, and Cultures Website 

    Majors: Arabic, Chinese, Japanese, Russian
    Minors: Arabic, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Russian, South Asian, Teaching Arabic, Teaching Chinese, Teaching Japanese

     

    The Department of Linguistics, Languages, and Cultures is an integral part of Michigan State University, having 36 full-time tenure-track faculty members, 28 fixed-term faculty and specialists, 20 PhD students, 32 Master’s students, and approximately 1,000 undergraduate students. The Department offers MA and PhD degrees in Linguistics, MA and PhD degrees in German Studies, and an MA degree in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL), plus 6 undergraduate major programs in Arabic, Chinese, German, Japanese, Linguistics, and Russian, and 10 undergraduate minor programs in cognitive science and various languages. Each of our programs recruits outstanding students who find employment after graduation, and we have many internationally- and nationally-renowned and/or award-winning faculty and programs in the Department.


    In particular, we place great emphasis on the education of students, from first-year undergraduates through advanced doctoral candidates and on to active research that not only explores cutting-edge theoretical and applied issues but is also closely linked to educational goals and engages students in the classroom. Collectively, departmental teaching and research reflect continuing concern for the local, national and global community.


    By the very interdisciplinary nature of the fields represented in the department, issues of how language reflects the nature of the human mind, how language is acquired, the interaction of language and culture, minority perspectives, diversity and internationalization lie at the center of our activities.

  • Department of Political Science

    Department of Political Science Website 

    Major: World Politics
     
    The Department of Political Science at Michigan State University is part of the College of Social Sciences. We describe and analyze political institutions and processes. The department is divided into subfields in American politics, international relations, comparative politics, public policy, and political thought. Our goal is to educate students at both the undergraduate and graduate level about political concepts, theories, and methods.
  • Department of Religious Studies

    Department of Religious Studies Website 

    Major: Religious Studies
    Minor: Religious Studies

     

    The Department of Religious Studies is leading social change and understanding cultural difference. Religious Studies at MSU provides you with a wide variety of classes in global cultural knowledge and a one-of-a-kind Nonprofit Leadership career track.
  • Global and International Studies Program

    Global and International Studies Program Website 

    Major: Global and International Studies

     

    Global and International Studies focuses on global systems and how they play out in different world regions. Students gain knowledge of particular world regions (including foreign languages) or of global themes that are important across regions, depending on the concentration they choose.

    Areas of study include:

    • World conditions and historical trends
    • Geography and geopolitics
    • Global and national interdependence 
    • Processes of continuity and change in different world regions
    • The varied and changing nature of global realities and the complexities of addressing world problems
    • Diverse ideas, practices, world views, and cultural expressions of people from different cultures
  • Global Studies in the Arts & Humanities Program

    Global Studies in the Arts & Humanities Program Website 

    Major: Global Studies in the Arts & Humanities
    Minor: Global Studies in the Arts & Humanities

     

    Global Studies in the Arts and Humanities was established at MSU in 2009 as an interdisciplinary undergraduate program in the College of Arts and Letters. The creation of the new program was largely a faculty initiative aimed at achieving the following goals:

    • Generating humanistic responses to globalization
    • Updating the arts and humanities curriculum to account for globalization
    • Engaging new fields of research focused on globalization and the humanities
    • Organizing events for discussing the complex effects of globalization.
  • James Madison College

    James Madison College Studies Website 

    Majors: Comparative Culture and Politics, International Relations
    Minor: Muslim Studies

     

    on College provides a liberal education in public affairs for undergraduates. This means, among other things, that our primary activity as a faculty and staff is undergraduate teaching. We are dedicated to the highest standards of excellence, both for our students and for ourselves. Our curriculum and individual courses are multi-disciplinary, cultivating skills of rigorous thought, lucid prose writing, and articulate speech. We learn in a residential setting that nurtures a collegium of scholars among students, faculty and staff and draw on the resources of the wider University to enrich our lives.

  • Muslim Studies Program

    Muslim Studies Program Website 

    Minor: Muslim Studies

    Established at MSU in 2006, MSP coordinates research, teaching, and outreach about Muslim societies and states. Additionally, it organizes speakers, workshops, and conferences on a wide range of topics that reflect the rich diversity of Muslim communities around the world. The MSP is unique in the sense that instead of a regional focus, it has a global view of Muslim societies and states. It is an interdepartmental and interdisciplinary center whose faculty has appointments in various disciplines of social sciences and humanities at MSU.

  • Neighborhood Student Success Collaborative APIDA Student Success Committee

    NSSC APIDA Student Success Committee

     

    Purpose
    Consortium of represented Identity Based groups designed to intentionally increase student success efforts for the represented groups and close the opportunity gaps that exist. Goals include but are not limited to increasing graduation rates, shorten time to degree, and close opportunity gaps. To close these opportunity gaps, an investment in strategies and programs that are specifically designed to promote student success in the populations that are lagging behind.

    Learning Outcomes
    Develop a sense of belonging by participating in intentional programming and activities geared toward their specific identity-based communities. 
    • Exhibit the ability to articulate institutional policies and procedures and how to successfully navigate them.
    • Identify supportive spaces to connect with MSU faculty, staff, & peers of shared identities to promote engagement in curricular and co-curricular experiences in order to increase persistence rates.
    • Recognize and utilize reliable resources that will increase opportunities for academic advancement, increased GPA, and shorten time to degree completion.
    • Develop a deeper understanding of one’s identity and the identities of others in addition to understanding one’s positionality and one’s positionality as it relates to others.
  • Office for International Students and Scholars

    Office for International Students and Scholars

     

    The Office for International Students and Scholars (OISS) provides support to Michigan State University’s international students, scholars and families
    Our student support services include:
    • Advising on and facilitating compliance with U.S. immigration regulations.

    • Conducting orientations and other special programming that help international students and scholars integrate into and adjust to the academic, cultural and social life of MSU.

    • Serving as a liaison with U.S. government agencies, foreign embassies, sponsors and educational foundations that support international students and scholars.

    • Contributing to the internationalization of MSU by providing opportunities for growth through cross-cultural interactions.
  • Office of Cultural and Academic Transitions (OCAT) APIDA Community Programming

    OCAT APIDA Community Programming Website 

     

    OCAT works collaboratively with APASO (Asian Pacific American Student Organization), the Asian Pacific American Studies Program other MSU Departments to put on quality APIDA (Asian Pacific Islander Desi American) programming. 

  • Undocumented Student Resources

    Undocumented Student Resources

     

    Michigan State University is committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for students of all backgrounds and maintaining a campus that is diverse, equitable and free from discrimination.


    We know that undocumented students, refugees, recipients of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program and those with mixed-immigration status often face challenges while navigating campus policies and support services. To circumvent these barriers, Michigan State University is working to increase institutional support for these students by making services like admissions, financial aid and residency reclassification advising more accessible.

  • Visiting International Professional Program

    Visiting International Professional Program

     

    The Visiting International Professional Program (VIPP) at Michigan State University (MSU) provides cutting-edge training and exchange programs for international professionals and organizations by leveraging the academic excellence of a top global research university.


    As your trusted partner for professional development needs in the United States, we provide transformative learning experiences by connecting people, cultures, knowledge, and ideas.


    Download the VIPP Program Brochure to learn more about our program offerings, and how we can help you reach your professional goals.


    Our Values:
    Quality, Community, Impact


    Our Culture:
    Agile, Innovative, High-Performing

 

 

Staff/Faculty Organizations

  • Asian Pacific Islander Desi American/Asian Faculty Staff Association

    The Asian, Pacific Islander, Desi American/Asian Faculty and Staff Association (APIDA/AFSA) of Michigan State University advocates for the needs of Asian Pacific Islander Desai American/Asian (APIDA/A) faculty, staff, and administrators. APIDA/AFSA welcomes new members to build community and capacity to show our presence on campus and create a positive change for the MSU APIDA/A community.


    Interest Form

 

 

Student Organizations

  • Alpha Kappa Delta Phi International Sorority, Inc. (aKDPhi)

    aKDPhi Involve@State Page

     

    alpha Kappa Delta Phi was established at the University of California at Berkeley in the Fall of 1989 and recognized by the College Panhellenic Association on February 7, 1990. The founding sisters - Susan Kim, Fannie Pon, Jill Yoshimura, and Reina Yuan - dedicated themselves to establishing a strong and lasting organization which would provide Asian American women the opportunity to participate in the Greek system. Soon after being recognized by the College Panhellenic Association, the founding sisters brought together a diverse group of women who shared with them the goals of sisterhood, scholarship, and leadership. These ideals were to later set the foundation for alpha Kappa Delta Phi's purpose. 
  • Alpha Phi Gamma National Sorority, Inc. (APhiG)

    APhiG Involve@State Page

     

    The purpose of this organization is to bring together all women of different nationalities through the bonds of friendship and Sisterhood. Alpha Phi Gamma exists to provide service and Asian Awareness to the university and the surrounding communities for the betterment of society. For its Members, this organization promotes scholarship, academic excellence, personal development, and leadership.
  • APIDA Celebratory

    APIDA Celebratory Involve@State Page

     

    Founded in September 2019, APIDA Celebratory exists for the betterment of its Members, the University, and the APIDA community. The purpose of this organization is to provide a supportive environment to the APIDA community through the acts of scholarship, academic excellence, personal development, and leadership. Most importantly, the organization strives to celebrate the graduation of APIDA students.
  • Asian Christian InterVarsity

    Asian Christian InterVarsity Involve@State Page

     

    At ACIV, we hold weekly small group bible studies and semi weekly large group discussions. Our bible studies and discussions are targeted for both new and experienced believers. Our goal is to create a community that: celebrates our Asian background, opens the word of the God to our lives and discussion, and creates relationships that extend beyond the organization. We also get a lot of bubble tea.

  • Asian Pacific American Law Student Association (APALSA)

    APALSA Involve@State Page

     

    The purpose of the Asian Pacific American Law Students Association is to address the needs and concerns of the Asian Pacific American law students within the law school through programs including but not limited to: assisting Asian Pacific American law students in achieving their academic and professional goals; fostering a sense of community within APALSA through a number of social, cultural and educational events; to work with Asian Pacific American communities, locally and nationally by providing APALSA members with access and opportunities for involvement; and to educate, inform and work with the law school in addressing issues affecting Asian Pacific Americans.

  • Asian Pacific Islander Student Organization (APASO)

    APASO Involve@State Page

     
    We, representatives of the Asian Pacific Islander Desi American (APIDA) undergraduate student body, shall advocate for APIDA topics and affairs in order to enrich the Spartan community. The Asian Pacific American Student Organization (APASO) shall provide a voice for the APIDA student body on Michigan State University's campus in a social, political, and academic context.


    Rooted in activism, APASO strives to support an inclusive, active, and intersectional community on
    MSU’s campus. APASO works towards creating awareness through collaboration, programming, and
    networking by partnering with MSU Registered Student Organizations (RSOs), faculty, administration, as well as individuals and groups outside of MSU’s community.

  • Association of Asian Veterinary Medical Professionals (AAVMP)

    AAVMP Involve@State Page

     

    The mission of MSU AAVMP is to foster a community of APIDA-identifying veterinary students and professionals. MSU AAVMP strives to advocate for overall diversity in veterinary medical professionals by inspiring, supporting, and increasing the core values of representation, mentorship, advocacy, and fellowship. 
     
    By offering professional and educational resources within the AAVMP network, we hope to foster success for APIDA veterinary, pre-veterinary and veterinary nursing students through mentorship and shared cultural experiences. MSU AAVMP will seek to unite and support the APIDA veterinary community and demonstrate allyship alongside other APIDA interest groups at MSU for all faculty, staff, and students.

  • Bangladesh Students' Association (BSA)

    BSA Involve@State Page

     

    BSA strives to bring the beautiful culture of Bangladesh to the Spartan community while creating a home away from home for the Bangladeshi students. We have about 50 active members and an executive committee composed of 5 RSOs and an advisor. We hold general meetings 2-3 times a year. We also have arranged Bangladesh Night for the last 2 years which was a big success. Our organization gives an idea about a Bangladeshi culture to the diverse community living at MSU.

  • Broad China Business Society (BCBS)

    BCBS Involve@State Page

     

    The Broad China Business Society (BCBS) is the premiere US-China business and political organization at Michigan State University. We aim to assist college students in developing into global professionals and leaders through growth based events, activities, and conferences that
    challenge and teach through action.
  • China Entrepreneur Network

    China Entreprenuer Network Involve@State Page

     

    The China Entrepreneur Network (CEN) is a university alliance comprised of twelve
    chapters in the US and China backed by an extensive network of industry, academic and
    government professionals. CEN-MSU is dedicated to cultivate leaders and pioneers to
    implement best practices in the business arena, to develop leadership and entrepreneurial skills
    with a commitment to cultural diversity, economic prosperity, and environmental
    sustainability.
  • Chinese-American Student Coalition

    Chinese-American Student Coalition Involve@State Page

     

    The purpose of the Chinese-American Student Coalition is to foster an environment that supports Chinese-American students and those interested in Chinese culture, providing a space that bridges the divide between Chinese and American identities. We host a multitude of events including our annual Lunar New Year banquet celebration, basketball tournament, Mid-Autumn festival (lantern painting and moon cakes), and more! For those interesting in attending events, please 'like' our Facebook page to get notified of new events and programs. 
  • Chinese Christian Fellowship (CCF)

    CCF Involve@State Page

     

    The purpose of this organization shall be to encourage and equip students to follow Jesus Christ as Lord ; growing in love for God, God’s word, God’s purposes in the world through spiritual, intellectual, physical and social pursuits.
  • Chinese Students and Scholars Association (CSSA)

    CSSA Involve@State Page

     

    The Chinese Students and Scholars Association at Michigan State University (CSSA-MSU) is a non-profit, student-run organization. CSSAMSU has always dedicated with great enthusiasm to serving Chinese students, including the undergraduate, master, Ph.D., and scholars in the Great Lansing area, as well as promoting Chinese culture to add the values to the local diverse community. With support from the University and Community, CSSAMSU continues to grow and become one of the most influential organizations. We actively participate in the school events, such as the Global Festival at MSU. We also host several annual events, such as New Student Welcome Seminar, Visiting Scholars BBQ, If You Are The One, and Temple Fair. CSSAMSU has five teams including programming, networking, marketing, design, and secretary.

  • Chinese Undergraduate Students Association (CUSA)

    CUSA Involve@State Page

     

    The purpose of Chinese Undergraduate Students Association is to help Chinese Undergraduate students in MSU area union together as a whole Chinese community.

  • CHM Asian Pacific American Medial Student Association (CHM APAMSA)

    CHM APAMSA Involve@State Page

     

    The Asian Pacific American Medical Students Association (APAMSA) at MSU College of Human Medicine hopes to promote education and engagement in the unique health challenges of Asian and Pacific Islander American (APIA) communities, as well as the sociopolitical issues affecting APIA communities and Asian populations abroad. We aspire to accomplish our vision through organizing networking events with physicians and community leaders, interactive documentary screenings, connecting students with active local organizations, and serving the needs of the local APIA community, all with the hopes of training culturally sensitive and socially responsible future physicians.
    MSU CHM APAMSA will be guided by the following motivations:

    • Explore APIA identity, heritage, history, and struggles
    • Highlight, unite, and represent diversity
    • Learn and educate on health care disparities
    • Enhance cultural humility
    • Build long-lasting community and connections
    • Maintain cohesion between Grand Rapids and East Lansing chapters
    • Improve intersectional APIA representation in current CHM curriculum
    • Collaborate with other student organizations and administration to address the needs of APIA medical students and community
  • Coalition of Indian Undergraduate Students (CIUS)

    CIUS Involve@State Page

     

    The Coalition of Indian Undergraduate Students (CIUS) organization was founded in 1989, to celebrate South Asian culture on Michigan State University's campus. As one of the oldest and largest RSO's on campus, we strive to provide many opportunities for our members to get involved and build a greater sense of community within Michigan State University. Our mission is to preserve, partake, and share Indian culture within our community and raise awareness about our culture and values in ways that benefit our members. CIUS, ultimately, creates a platform for our members to express themselves as well as give our members the opportunity to give back to the community. 
  • COM Asian Pacific American Medical Student Association

    COM APAMSA Involve@State Page

     

    The Asian Pacific American Medical Students Association (APAMSA) at MSU college of osteopathic medicine hopes to engage the challenges facing Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) communities around our three campus locations. Our organization strives to combine tenets of osteopathy, advocacy, and education to prepare socially conscious medical students to collaborate with physicians, patients, and their community.
  • COM South Asian Medical Student Association

    COM SAMSA Involve@State Page

     

    SAMSA is an organization that aims to unify South Asian medical students across the United States. South Asians are considered a minority group but make up a large portion of the healthcare field. As a chapter, we hope to provide South Asian identifying students at Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine a space in which to increase interest in and raise awareness of healthcare issues affecting South Asian communities both locally and nationally. All MSUCOM students who are interested in learning about South Asian culture through a medical lens are welcome to join. 
  • CTRL+A

    CTRL+A Involve@State Page

     

    CTRL+A acts as an entity that celebrates diversity and expresses the Asian Pacific Islander American experience through dance performances, while advocating for APIA culture and representation at Michigan State University. CTRL+A hopes to provide members and supporters of the APIA community with a space in which they should have freedom to express themselves and advocate for the community.
  • dreaMSU

    dreaMSU Involve@State Page

     

    Student advocacy organization work towards making MSU an inclusive and equitable campus for immigrant, undocumented and DACAmented students. 


    Our rally from Fall 2019 resulted in an official MSU website for undocumented students: undocumented.msu.edu

  • Hmong American Student Association (HASA)

    HASA Involve@State Page

     

    We the members of Hmong American Student Association, in order to serve our community and organization, to promote better relations between higher education and the Hmong community, to lend aid to all community members, and ensure a safe environment for members of our organization.
  • Hong Kong Student Association

    Hong Kong Student Association Involve@State Page

     

    This organization strives to provide a comfortable environment to all Hong Kong students who are transitioning and adapting to the American culture, and promote Hong Kong culture to fellow students.
  • Indonesian Student Association (PERMIAS)

    Indonesian Student Association (PERMIAS) Involve@State Page

     

    The purpose of this organization shall be to bring together the Indonesian community in the Lansing Area. It is also known as Permias.
  • International Student Association (ISA)

    ISA Involve@State Page

     

    To promote and enhance international awareness, cooperation, cultural diversity, and dialogue among international students, and between international students and domestic students at Michigan State University and the wider communities.
  • Japan Club

    Japan Club Involve@State Page

     

    The purpose of this organization is to introduce Japanese culture to the local community and introduce American culture to Japanese exchange students.
  • Japanese Language Club

    Japan Club Involve@State Page

     

    To build a community interested in learning Japanese Language
  • Kendo Club

    Kendo Club Involve@State Page

     

    The purpose of the MSU Kendo club shall be to practice the Japanese martial art of Kendo, the way of the sword. The MSU Kendo club will also work to instruct new members in the art of kendo and help to spread kendo in the Mid Michigan area.
  • Korean Student Association (KSA)

    KSA Involve@State Page

     

    MSU Korean Student Association (KSA) dedicates itself to an all-inclusive community of students with a common interest in Korean culture. Our organization participates in a wide variety of events and social gatherings on a monthly basis. Our main event is a general body meeting (GBM), which gives everyone the opportunity to meet people, build connections, have fun, and learn something new about Korea. KSA membership is open to ALL undergraduate and graduate students. So no worries, if you're not Korean, we'll welcome you with open arms!

  • Lambda Phi Epsilon International Fraternity, Inc. (LPhiE)

    LPhiE Involve@State Page

     

    MISSION

    To guide men on a lifelong discovery of authenticity and personal growth.

     

    VISION

    A world where Lambda men live authentic, fulfilling lives and contribute through the pursuit of their noble purpose.

     

    CORE VALUES

    Authenticity: Demonstration of one’s true self to the world, despite external expectations.

    Courageous Leadership: Integrity through action toward a more humane world, especially in times of adversity.

    Cultural Heritage: Ideas and experiences of a people, transcending the world through generations.

    Love: Care and respect for oneself, the brotherhood, and the world.

    Wisdom: Pursuit of understanding and its positive application toward one’s life and the world.

  • Muslim Student Association (MSA)

    MSA Involve@State Page

     

    In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.  In submission to Allah (swt), we, the MSA of Michigan State University, shall promote unity and Islamic awareness comprehensively, while striving to serve as reminders and to be reminded of our covenant to our Creator.

    • To bear witness that there is no deity worth of worship except Allah (swt), and that the Prophet Muhammad (saw) is His last messenger.

    • To bear witness that there is no deity worth of worship except Allah (swt), and that the Prophet Muhammad (saw) is His last messenger.

    • To help Muslims grow towards maturity as followers of the commandments of Allah (swt) through Islamic study, prayer, and by Muslim brotherhood/sisterhood.

    • To create and strengthen unity amongst Muslims.

    • To provide an inviting Islamic learning environment in which students can mature and grow.

    • To educate Muslims and non-Muslims about Islam.

    • To voice the concerns of Muslims in the affairs of the University and the community.

    • To help Muslims and non-Muslims in times of need.

  • Pakistani Students Association

    Pakistani Students Association Involve@State Page

     

    The Pakistani Students' Association (PSA) at Michigan State University is a student organization that organizes different educational and social activities, that enhance cross-cultural understanding and international awareness. As other active student organizations on campus, PSA at MSU strives to offer a better environment to its members by organizing activities, programs, and events that cater to the cultural needs of Pakistanis away from home. In addition to events and gatherings, PSA at MSU provides counseling and advising to students to enable them to make their stay in East Lansing most productive and learning-oriented. Social and cultural events further enhance the interactions with Pakistanis and non-Pakistani students on campus. Our aim is to build bridges and understanding with all students on campus.

  • Pilipino American Student Society (PASS)

    PASS Involve@State Page

     

    The Pilipino American Student Society is the vision of a small group of Filipino-American friends at Michigan State University. A group of 7 individuals came together in the APA Heritage room of MSU for their first meeting in September 1991. This small band of visionaries had high hopes of bringing more Filipino students together on campus, and unknowingly became the foundation of a large, supportive, and active Pilipino group that branches to both coastlines and beyond to share and bring awareness to Filipino and Filipino-American culture!
  • Professional Asian Student Association (PASA)

    PASA Involve@State Page

     

    PASA is a student organization that is devoted to enhancing student success- both academically and professionally- by fostering unity and strengthening ties among students within the Asian community at Michigan State University. 


    PASA is passionate in building diverse relationships within the community and is committed to helping students navigate the college experience by encouraging academic excellence, engaging in career-building seminars and workshops, and promoting diversity and inclusion. 

  • RAASparty

    RAASparty Involve@State Page

     

    The purpose of this organization shall be to spread our love of the traditional Indian dance known as Raas-Garba to the rest of the world through collegiate competitions.
  • Sigma Beta Rho Fraternity, Inc. (SigRho)

    SigRho Involve@State Page

     

    Sigma Beta Rho (www.sigmabetarho.com)  is the nation’s premier multicultural fraternity. We span over 50 universities with over 3,000 members nationwide. Our high standard of performance and maintaining the integrity of the values of our fraternity have contributed to our success throughout years past on Michigan State’s campus. Central to our efforts in Sigma Beta Rho are our pillars: service to our society, our bond of brotherhood, and remembrance of our origins.
  • Society of Asian Scientists and Engineers (SASE)

    SASE Involve@State Page

     

    The Chapter is committed to providing support to the community and to promoting educational programs for the advancement of its members.
     The objectives and goals of the Chapter shall be to:
    • Support and develop programs that provide for the advancement of Asian heritage scientists and engineers. This goal shall be implemented by:
    • Provide a forum for professional development and for the connection with entrepreneurial opportunities.
    • Provide opportunities for personal growth via programs focusing on the global business world, diversity, and community service.
    • Inform the public of contributions and advancements made by Asian heritage scientists and engineers in newsletters and awards ceremonies.
  • South Asian Awareness Network (SAAN)

    SAAN Involve@State Page

     

    The purpose of the MSU South Asian Awareness Network is to educate the student community on social justice issues from a South Asian perspective.

  • Spartan Diabolo

    Spartan Diabolo Involve@State Page

     

    The purpose of this organization is to enrich the MSU community with the performing arts of diabolo. 
  • Spartan Sur

    Spartan Sur Involve@State Page

     

    This organization hopes to unite its members through music and invite the university community, as well as the general public to listen to our songs and in doing so learn about the South Asian culture. 
  • Spartan Zaariya

    Spartan Zaariya Involve@State Page

     

    Spartan Zaariya is Michigan State’s premier all girls competitive Bollywood fusion dance team. We incorporate both Indian and American dance styles and compete all around the United States. 
  • Sri Lankan Student Association

    Sri Lankan Student Association Involve@State Page

     

    The purpose of this organization shall be to promote intellectual, social, and cultural interaction and developing leadership skills among those associated with the Michigan State University.
  • Swara

    Swara Involve@State Page

     

    MSU Swara is an organization of undergraduate students attending Michigan State University, that is formed with the goal of showcasing and bringing together Indian traditional fine arts on the campus. We aim to foster the community of students interested and involved in classical arts to promote the talent and raise awareness of the rich culture of Indian Classical Dance and Music.

  • Taiwanese Student Association

    Taiwanese Student Association Involve@State Page

     

    The purpose of this organization shall be to serve and connect Taiwanese students,
    assist Taiwanese students in transitioning into college life, promote Taiwanese
    culture awareness in the community, and to provide opportunities for cross-cultural
    experiences.
  • Thai Student Association (ThaiSA)

    ThaiSA Involve@State Page

     

    Our ThaiSA community has grown to become a tight-knitted family, and no words will explain how happy we will be if you were to join us! Beyond being students who strive for academic excellence, we are all like brothers and sisters; looking after one another, supporting each other, and having a great time together. ThaiSA will provide a place for you to settle in before you go out and explore the Spartan nation and create new friendships with people around the world.
  • Undergraduate International Indian Student Association (UIISA)

    UIISA Involve@State Page

     

    The purpose of the Undergraduate International Indian Student Association (UIISA) is to bring together all the Indian international students by allowing them to form a network with other freshmen as well as upperclassmen to help them better assimilate into college life in the US. UIISA will be a non profit organisation.


    The organisation plans to achieve this goal by-

    • Creating a close-knit community of Indian international students and in doing so, providing them with friendship and support.
    • Providing students with accessible resources on campus and as well as academic support, while also ensuring a well rounded transition into their university life.
    • Focusing mainly on the needs and problems of the undergraduate students in the university by building a network of incoming freshmen and existing Indian students to help smooth the assimilation of Indian freshmen into MSU along with providing them with the necessary resources and help required while starting a college life in the US.
    • To help Indian International students feel more comfortable by creating a community of Indian students who have been through similar experiences and allow them to share their experiences and build a vibrant community for undergraduate Indians living on campus.
    • To celebrate and showcase Indian culture and share it with fellow students in MSU by hosting a variety of cultural events and sharing cultural ideologies and traditions to any interested student on campus.
  • Vietnamese Culture Union (VCU)

    VCU Involve@State Page

     

    - Mission: To create an immersive and inclusive environment for celebration, exploration, and expression of Vietnamese culture.
    - Vision: To become a foundation and trusted address for anyone with an interest in Vietnamese language, culture, and heritage.
    - Target audience: students, scholars, faculty, and community members
    - Methods:
    1. Layout foundation policies to create a friendly environment where everyone can appreciate cultural/stylistic differences of one another.
    2. Organize social and cultural events as an intention to give clarity and an in-depth understanding of the traditional and modern culture of Vietnam.
    3. Offer support in terms of academic, professional, and cultural transition for students, scholars, and families.
    4. Provides assistance to faculties and communities in academic, social, and extracurricular activities.
    5. Connect and reach out to alumni and partnered organizations in Vietnam to expand our resources and future growth opportunities of not only the organization but also individuals that are involved.
  • Vietnamese Student Association (VSA)

    VSA Involve@State Page

     

    We promote awareness of Vietnamese-American culture, heritage, and issues throughout the community and the nation. Our diverse group of members come together to implement social/cultural events, while furthering our education, leadership, & growth.
  • We are SAATH

    We are SAATH Involve@State Page

     

    The purpose of this Organization is to shift the narrative around Mental Health in the South Asian community with education, activism, and storytelling. WE ARE SAATH MSU seeks to sensitize South Asians and all who join us to mental health challenges while providing a space for friendship and hope to those affected. We inspire Power - to feel accepted and understood by all, and to stand in solidarity as one family. WE ARE SAATH MSU empowers members to share their stories and have meaningful dialogues about mental health, its affect on all of us, and how to break down the stigma surrounding it. WE ARE SAATH MSU will have activities to help cope with the pressures of school and the cultural community. Activities are open to all in a safe, judgement-free environment. All are welcome regardless of background.