At the UAB School of Dentistry, we're proud to offer our students a wealth of engagement opportunities through our 18 vibrant student organizations. Today, we're shining the spotlight on one of these amazing groups: the Asian Dental Student Organization (ADSO).
ADSO members and some SOD faculty during their Vietnamese Coffee & Thai Tea Tea Fundraiser in 2024.In this quick interview, we hear from members of the ADSO, including their dynamic President, Jade Kim (Class of 2026). They share insights into what ADSO stands for and the exciting activities they organize throughout the year.
1. What is the primary mission and focus of your student organization?
Jade Kim (President and Class of 2026): The Asian Dental Student Organization (ADSO) revolves around the support and empowerment of Asian dental students within the UABSOD community. Our central focus is to define and advocate for the responsibilities, commitment, and the inherent rights and privileges that our members possess within their societal roles as healthcare providers. ADSO aspires to enrich the professional, educational, recreational, and social dimensions of this institution while also fostering a unique representation of Asian culture.
2. What kind of events or activities does your organization typically host throughout the year?
Jade Kim (President and Class of 2026): We host events to celebrate Asian holidays and share festivities with everyone at school regardless race, gender, and ethnicities. We include foods of different Asian heritage and cultural activities for everyone to experience. Our major events include Lunar New Year, Diwali, and different fundraisers such as Thai tea and Vietnamese coffee fundraisers.
3. What are your goals for the organization in the upcoming year?
Jade Kim (President and Class of 2026): Our goal this upcoming year is to continue to grow and strengthen the presence of our club within the school community. As a relatively new organization, we are focused on establishing a strong foundation and increasing our visibility on campus.
ADSO members gathered during their Diwali event in 2024.4. Can you describe a recent successful event or initiative your organization hosted?
Jade Kim (President and Class of 2026): Our Diwali event last November was a hit. People enjoyed learning about Diwali, a festival of lights from India to celebrate the beginning of fiscal year. We invited everyone at the school to experience painting diyas (oil lamps) and try vegetable samosa and mango lassis.
5. What do you wish more students knew about your organization?
Donald Ho (Vice President and Class of 2026): ADSO welcomes everyone. We would love for everyone, regardless of ethnicity, race and gender, to join our event to experience different Asian cultures and have fun.
6. What have you appreciated/enjoyed most since joining your organization?
Jeremy Chu (ADSO Member and Class of 2027): SOD students can experience a lot of “firsts” with our events. It is exciting to see people enjoy different activities and cultures through our events. Also, it is very rewarding to see students feeling appreciated for the representation of their cultures through our events.
More
The Asian Dental Student Organization (ADSO) aspires to enrich the professional, educational, recreational, and social dimensions of UAB SOD while furthering the understanding of the unique aspects of Asian culture through:
- Events to celebrate holidays from different cultures
- Asian dentist speakers
- Language and culture workshops
All UAB dental students are welcome to become members and participate in events hosted by the Asian Dental Student Organization.
Student organizations are the foundation of engagement at UAB School of Dentistry. Students can affiliate with chapters and special interest groups that enhance the social, cultural, recreational and educational functions of student life and represent a wide range of interests in dentistry. All UAB dental students are welcome to apply, join and/or participate in any student organization.