Getting to know SEAMAAC

The Philadelphia Asian American community is quite tight knit and welcoming. Knowing one person or attending an event often leads to acquaintances and friendships with others who care about the same things you believe in. You soon find that you run into the same people at town halls or community events. That is how I got to know Andy Toy, who is the Development and Communications Director at SEAMAAC (Southeast Asian Mutual Assistance Association Coalition). I first ran into him at an Asian Masculinity discussion at Asian Arts Initiative two summers ago, then ran into him again at an Asian American Pacific Islanders in Philanthropy (AAPIP) get together. Coincidentally, he also happens to be my cousin’s uncle! Inspired by his deep involvement in Philly and with Asian Americans, I contacted him to set up an informational interview on his career path and his work at SEAMAAC. Continue reading

LILAC Alumna in Residence: Marissa Patterson, Family Nurse Practitioner

On Friday December 2, LILAC invited Marissa Patterson (’08 Biology & Anthropology Major) back to campus to talk about her path after Bryn Mawr and her job as an FNP at Family Practice and Counseling Network. I attended both the Wyndham lunch and a one-on-one informational interview with Marissa. This opportunity to learn more about the nursing career from an alum’s experience was special to me because I hope to pursue nursing after Bryn Mawr. Marissa had also commented on one of my Banter Blog posts, and I referred her to LILAC head Katie Krimmel to arrange for Marissa to be invited to campus. Wyndham-Alumnae-House-Wedding-Bryn-Mawr-PA-15_main.1429033529 Continue reading