AAD was founded in May 2021 to forge new pathways to career success for underserved Asian American and Pacific Islander undergraduates.
Due to the harmful and pervasive model minority myth, there is a widespread misconception that all AAPI are well-connected and well-resourced. However, the stark reality is that AAPI face the largest income inequality of any ethnic group with the top 10% of the income distribution earning 11x more than the bottom 10%. This staggering economic divide, coupled with the severe lack of career programming for AAPI college students, makes it difficult for first-generation, low-income AAPI undergraduates to find support when navigating their early career experiences.
Our strategy at AAD is to provide mentorship networks, professional development training, and career advancement opportunities for underserved AAPI undergraduates in the New York metropolitan area. Furthermore, we empower our students to unapologetically chase and achieve their unique vision of the Asian American dream – one that champions their lived experiences, career aspirations, and AAPI heritage.