Examining the histories and experiences of Asians in the hemispheric Americas

Academics

The centerpieces of the Asian American Studies Program's curriculum are its minors at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. Open to all undergraduate and graduate students throughout Cornell University, the minors afford students the opportunity to develop an interdisciplinary approach to the study of Asians in the hemispheric Americas. The AASP also supports undergraduate, graduate, and faculty research through initiatives such as the Ronald R. Hoy Graduate Colloquium in Asian American Studies, workshops, lectures, and other events.

Our award-winning faculty knows that what our students do in the lecture hall and the seminar room is inextricably linked to the world beyond. What students learn about cultural practice and community formation, racism and white supremacy, political struggle and social justice – whether in theoretical terms or in everyday practice, whether through literature or anthropology or cultural studies or history – forms a frame for not only how they see the world but how they engage with it.

Explore Academic Resources

Undergraduate Program Undergraduate Minor Application Form Graduate Program Graduate Minor Application Form AASP Minor Graduates Current Courses

"Book of the Week” series (#BOTW)

Originally designed by program manager Alexis Boyce to promote the Asian American Studies Resource Center, AASP student employees post weekly blurbs of books chosen from the resource center’s collection. “It’s a way for the students to retain a sense of continuity and stay connected to each other,” said AASP director and associate professor, Christine Bacareza Balance.

“Social and cultural historians are calling for us to document what it means to be living in this moment right now,” said Balance. “I think of these posts in that tradition.”

Click here to check out the BOTW series on Facebook

Click here for BOTW on Instagram

Student Reflections
“AAS coursework was a true breath of fresh air in my college experience, especially as much of my academic path was centered on building business-related skills. These courses pushed me to think beyond my previously myopic understanding of what “Asian American” means and helped me better understand the depth, complexity, and diversity of Asian American experiences. More importantly, they challenged me to think about how the histories and struggles of different communities inform one another, and how solidarity is built through a deeper understanding of both shared and distinct experiences. The coursework has shaped not only how I think about identity and community, but also how I hope to move through the world with more empathy, nuance, and responsibility.”
- Grace Qi '26 (Applied Economics and Management)