Understanding Asian-American Identity

Canwen shares her experiences growing up as an Asian-American, highlighting the challenges of balancing two cultures and dealing with stereotypes. She discusses the pressure to conform to societal norms and the internal conflict of rejecting her heritage for acceptance. Through personal anecdotes, she reflects on the model minority myth and the importance of embracing her identity. The talk concludes with a message of pride in her dual heritage.

What are Canwen's aspirations and favorite subject?

• To be a writer; Literature

• To be an artist; Chemistry

• To be a doctor; Calculus

• To be a musician; Physics

What challenge did Canwen face growing up in states with little racial diversity?

• Finding Asian food

• Balancing her Chinese heritage with American culture

• Difficulty in learning English

• Making friends

How did Canwen feel about being good at math?

• Proud because it was her favorite subject

• Indifferent as it was expected

• Self-conscious due to stereotypes

• Confident because of her hard work

What is an example of a 'clueless' question Canwen encountered?

• Where are you from?

• Do you speak Chinese?

• Do you know my Chinese friend?

• Can you use chopsticks?

What realization did Canwen have about her Sims 3 characters?

• They were all male

• They were all white

• They were all Asian

• They were all diverse

What role do Asian-Americans play in the American melting pot according to Canwen?

• They are seen as outsiders

• They are often ignored

• They are the model minority

• They are fully accepted

What does Canwen say society tells Asian-Americans to do?

• Reject their own heritages

• Embrace their heritage

• Ignore racial issues

• Celebrate diversity

What does Canwen wish she had the courage to do?

• Avoid confrontation

• Assimilate completely

• Ignore stereotypes

• Speak out about racial issues

What does Canwen identify as a challenge in discussing race issues?

• No personal experience

• Not enough time

• Fear of being too sensitive

• Lack of interest

How does Canwen describe her identity at the end of the talk?

• Neither American nor Chinese

• Completely Chinese

• Completely American

• A mix of American and Chinese