1. Why did you decide to get involved with TAP and what was your first event?
Having lived in Chicago and New York, I attended TAP events in those cities and was interested in San Francisco’s TAP after moving here. The first event I went to was a TAPpy Hour at Pier 23 Cafe.
2. Why is TAP important to you and why do you continue to be so active?
Since college, I’ve been active in the Taiwanese American Community. I was president of Rutgers TASA (Taiwanese American Student Association), executive director of a summer camp called TANG http://tangeneration.org/ (Taiwanese American Next Generation), co-director of the first Rutgers ITASA Conference in 2005, and Steering Committee/Advisor member of FAPA http://fapaypg.org/ (Formosan Association of Public Affairs). You could say being TA is very much a part of who I am, but more importantly it’s the strong and vibrant members of the community that encourage me to be active.
3. How has TAP benefited you the most?
Through TAP, I have been able to meet a diverse, but also like-minded group of people. As such, I’m happy to say I quickly made a group of friends who have helped me transition and build a life in California.
4. What was your favorite TAP event this year and why?
The Tea Ceremony event by far. It was a great event that brought together the old and young generations for a rich part of our culture. Plus, who doesn’t want to drink ridiculously expensive tea…
5. What type of events would you like to see TAP do in the future?
I would like to see more events focusing on strengthening identity, of course without being exclusive. Being from the East Coast, being Taiwanese American was not always easy and for many of us it took a long time to figure it out.
6. What do you like to do outside of TAP?
Wait, what? There’s life outside of TAP? When I’m not at TAP events, I am planning and executing activities for FAPA, which I think is a unique, enriching experience for anyone and ultimately a good cause. Else, like any Taiwanese American I like to eat, drink, be merry, and play video games. I also love the plethora of outdoor activities here from motorcycle riding to wine tasting in Napa.
7. What is your favorite Taiwanese food and what is your favorite part of Taiwan?
My favorite hands down is HOTPOT. It’s like 7-11 for me. I can eat all year round even in the summer! It’s tough to narrow down my favorite part of Taiwan. Kaohsiung’s harbor, Hualien’s scenery, Yilan’s hot springs, Tainan’s history, Taichung’s food, and Alishan’s sunrise all make Taiwan a special and naturally beautiful place. But home is where the heart is and since all my family is in Taipei, I’ll just have to say the capital!
8. Where would you like to see TAP in the future?
I would like to see TAP be a coalescing force in the Taiwanese American community. For such a small minority, our diversity leads to the formation of so many groups that sometimes can collaborate on common goals which would ultimately benefit us all in the end.
9. How would you recommend newer TAP members get involved?
Put yourself out there. Go to an event. Talk to a cabinet member. They’re always looking for folks who want to get involved and the best aspect about this chapter is its involvement in all areas from professional to cultural activities.
