Leadership Cohort: Gateway to Success

Our Gateway to Success program is designed to provide a year-long leadership experience for Asian American and Asian international students who are in their final year of undergraduate or graduate studies and are seeking to establish their careers in St. Louis. This program is a crucial part of our overarching strategy to support emerging professionals in building their leadership skills, and to help them establish the necessary networks and competencies to transition successfully from academia to the workforce.

Through GTS, participating students will acquire the skills and connections necessary to thrive in the local job market, while also being exposed to successful professionals from similar Asian ethnic backgrounds. Our goal is to inspire and motivate new graduates to remain in Saint Louis by facilitating connections with accomplished professionals, who will share their stories and experiences to help students understand the possibilities and opportunities available to them.

In addition, our program is designed to promote cross-cultural learning by bringing together a diverse group of Asian American and international students. Through our previous experiences, we have found that such interactions can foster greater understanding and appreciation of identity, while also encouraging confidence and participation.

This year's program has received applications from students representing a variety of ethnic backgrounds, including Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese, and Taiwanese. Selected candidates will have the opportunity to participate in a range of events and workshops focused on developing their knowledge of potential career paths and the local community. Our monthly sessions will incorporate skill-based practices, professional networking opportunities, arts and cultural experiences, and candidate-led sessions focused on leadership development.Gateway to Success cohort is a supportive leadership cohort for Asian Americans and international students in their final year of (undergrad or grad school) who wish to stay in St. Louis.

The fellowship will allow individuals to build skills and networks to find and succeed in jobs in the St. Louis region.

The program will begin in the Spring of 2023 and is open to all degrees and career interests. The inaugural cohort can expect professional development workshops, networking-events, and outings to landmark sites!

Our goal is to build future leaders in the St. Louis Asian American community!