Asian, Pacific Islander & Desi Americans (APIDA)
Folsom Lake College is honored to have the designation as an Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institution (AANAPISI). AANAPISI is one of eight federally designated Minority-Serving Institutions (MSI) programs and was established by Congress in 2007 as part of the College Cost Reduction and Access Act. It was expanded in 2008 under the Higher Education Opportunity Act.
Folsom Lake College's APIDA Program is proud to lead the way in creating a safe and inclusive space that provides academic and personal support to students from low-income and diverse backgrounds.
- Central Asians: Afghan, Armenian, Azerbaijani, Georgians, Kazakh, Kyrgyz, Mongolian, Tajik, Turkmen, Uzbek
- East Asians: Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Okinawan, Taiwanese, Tibetan
- Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders: (in the United States Jurisdictions & Territories) Carolinian, Chamorro, Chuukese, Fijian, Guamanian, Hawaiian, Kosraean, Marshallese, Native Hawaiian, Niuean, Palauan, Pohnpeian, Samoan, Tokelauan, Tongan, Yapese
- Southeast Asians: Bruneian, Burmese, Cambodian, Filipino, Hmong, Indonesian, Laotian, Malaysian, Mien, Papua New Guinean, Singaporean, Timorese, Thai, Vietnamese
- South Asians: Bangladeshi, Bhutanese, Indian, Maldivians, Nepali, Pakistani, Sri Lankan
APIDA at Folsom Lake College is centered on building a resilient and inclusive community. It's a second home for students, particularly of APIDA (Asian, Pacific Islander & Desi Americans) background, to feel a deep sense of belonging and support. Our vision is grounded in the belief that every student, regardless of their background or challenges, deserves access to the resources and mentorship necessary for success.
We see a future where students are empowered to navigate the college experience with confidence, knowing they are supported by a network that values diversity, culture, and individuality. We also envision a seamless pathway for students to continue their educational journey beyond community college. Whether they aim to transfer to a four-year university or step into the workforce, APIDA aims to equip them with the skills, knowledge, and community connections. Our long-term goal is to foster a generation of students who are not only academically successful but also confident, culturally aware, and ready to make an impact in the world.
APIDA Program Support Services
The APIDA Center offers a variety of transfer connect services and resources to support students, including leadership conferences, transfer-ready workshops, and skill-building sessions. Students can access dedicated academic support and work with an APIDA-specific counselor. Here at FLC, we provide a safe space for personal reflection and exploration of family and community experiences. The program also includes cultural celebrations, help with scholarship searches and applications, university campus tours, and an APIDA-themed university day.
- 4-year University field trips (costs covered)
- Leadership differences (costs covered)
- Professional development & skill-building workshops
- Academic counseling
- Cultural celebrations
- Affinity collaborations
- A reflective environment for engaging with personal, family, and community experiences.
- College application preparation & scholarship search
- Transfer support
- API Scholars Rising Graduation to acknowledge and honor APIDA students’ accomplishments!
Contact
Neelam Bandhu, M.Ed.
Student Support Specialist
Chung Tieu
Student Support Assistant
To join or inquire about the APIDA program, please schedule an appointment or come see us at the Welcome and Student Success Center.
Hours
Monday through Thursday:
9:00 am to 4:30 pm
Location
Main Folsom campus
APIDA Office (Equity Center)
Aspen Hall, FL1-151b.1 Welcome and Student Success Center