Maya Fukumori, a third-year student studying supply chain management with a minor in computational mathematics, science and engineering, is finishing up her term as co-president of the Asian Pacific American Student Organization at Michigan State University. Here, she shares her experience being a part of APASO and the importance of Asian Pacific Islander Desi American, or APIDA, Heritage Month on campus.

When I first came to MSU, I wanted to find a community that felt familiar and that I could help grow. I’ve always been passionate about learning from different cultures and perspectives. Joining APASO helped me find the perfect community for that.

I initially got involved with the Asian Pacific American Student Organization my first year at MSU. Coming from a hometown that wasn’t very diverse, MSU felt like an opportunity to connect with others who understood parts of my identity that I hadn’t always been able to share with people around me before.

Advocacy was also an important reason why I became involved. During the pandemic, there was a rise in anti-Asian hate. Advocating for Asian and Asian American communities is important to me, and APASO provided an opportunity for me to do that. My dad immigrated from Japan, and I’ve seen some of the challenges he’s faced. Being part of APASO allows me to contribute to a space where people feel supported, represented and heard.

Over the years, APASO has helped me grow as both a leader and a person. I started as an intern my first year and later became the Cultural Vogue chair. Cultural Vogue is one of our largest events that celebrates culture and identity with many of our affiliate organizations. Leading it was one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve had at MSU because it showed me the impact that bringing people together can have.

Now, I serve as a president of APASO alongside my co-president, Megan. My favorite part of this role has been helping create events that bring students together and encourage them to learn from one another. Community building is at the center of everything we do, and I take great pride in honoring that work.

One of the most meaningful times of the year for our organization is APIDA Heritage Month. Although it is nationally recognized in May, we celebrate it during the spring semester so students can participate before the summer break. The month is a chance for students to learn about Asian American and Pacific Islander histories and experiences. It is also a space for building connections on campus and teaching others about our culture.

Throughout MSU’s APIDA Heritage Month, APASO hosts a variety of events focused on awareness and community. This year, our kickoff event focused on mental health and included collaborations with campus partners like MSU Museum and MSU Counseling and Psychiatric Services. We invited speakers to share how their cultural backgrounds shaped their mental health journeys. It was meaningful to hear those perspectives and to encourage conversations about topics that aren’t always talked about in every community.

Our e-board also values bringing people together in more casual ways. We host gatherings with food, crafts and a space to culturally connect. Events like these give students the opportunity to experience different traditions while meeting new people.

Collaboration and advocacy are also a big part of APIDA Heritage Month. We work with other student organizations and campus partners to expand our outreach and create more opportunities for students to get involved. It’s important to us that the month feels inclusive and welcoming to everyone on campus, whether they are part of the APIDA community or simply interested in learning more.

As my term as president comes to an end, I feel so grateful for the community we’ve built and the people I’ve met along the way. If there’s one message I hope students take away from APIDA Heritage Month, it’s to be open to learning about different perspectives and cultures. MSU is made up of so many diverse backgrounds and experiences, and that’s what makes the community so special.

For me, APASO has been a place where culture, my leadership and connection to others come together. It’s an experience that will stay with me long after graduation.

Learn more about upcoming events at APASO’s website.