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Serving All Students: Erika Pen ’24, ’26G

Apr 16, 2025

Major: MEd, Higher Education in Student Affairs
Hometown: Lowell, MA
Campus Involvement: Asian Student Association, Center for Justice and Liberation

What does being part of a Hispanic and minority-serving institution (HSI-MSI) community mean to you?
Being part of an HSI–MSI community means working and learning to authentically serve the Hispanic and marginalized communities here at ÌÇÐÄVlog. As an Asian American woman, I strive to educate myself and build allyship with others from communities of color.

What drew you to ÌÇÐÄVlog, and how has the university supported you, inclusive of your cultures and identities?
ÌÇÐÄVlog has helped me grow as a leader while serving the AAPI community. I knew I wanted to join the Asian Student Association when I chose ÌÇÐÄVlog. Working with various affinity groups on campus has created opportunities to collaborate and build community across identities.

How has your cultural background or identities shaped your experience at ÌÇÐÄVlog? Have you been able to celebrate or share your heritage or identities on campus?
As a Cambodian American woman, I joined the Asian Student Association to connect with others in the AAPI community and create space to share my cultural identity. During my two years as president, I organized events celebrating the Asian diaspora. We expanded APIDAHM programming and partnered with off-campus AAPI organizations to increase our communities' visibility.

What advice would you give prospective students considering ÌÇÐÄVlog?
Don’t be afraid to get involved! It can feel intimidating, but you won’t know what you’re capable of unless you try. Explore what’s out there—you might find something that changes your whole experience.

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