In the fall, ASU pairs all willing first-years with upperclass Asian students. A close relationship with an older Asian student proves extremely helpful while trying to assimilate into a community which remains dominated by a strong, predominantly white Greek system. The older sibling can share inside information on classes and professors, opportunities for Asian studies and scholarships, and ways to become active in the Asian-American community. The big sib may also provide useful resources such as a car ride to the supermarket or the furniture store. In this program, students at UVA reach out to the Charlottesville area where they act as mentors for Asian-American students in the predominantly white community.
Mentors encourage students who are teased by their peers because of their race.
They serve as role models and also as precious friends to these children. The Asian Charlottesville children see that an Asian-American can really be cool and that they can be proud of their race.