Description
Bloom: Asian American Community Program
Dedicated to the Asian American Experience at Cal
Bloom: Asian American Community Program, originally the Asian Pacific American Theme House, was established in 1992 and is a residence for students looking to build community while engaging in Asian American history, culture, and contemporary issues. Bloom is grounded in the history of the Asian American Movement and its origins at Cal.
This program supports new students in their transition to a large university setting through academic and social activities such as a weekly seminar, fields, academic support, cultural events, and community service. A live-in theme program assistant provides resources and support for residents’ social and academic needs. Our academic seminar brings together students and faculty, alumni, community leaders, activists, and other speakers to discuss a variety of topics. Through social and academic activities, students gain leadership skills, form a close-knit community, and have fun.
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Program Requirements
Bloom community members are expected to engage in and actively participate to in the following theme program activities to enhance their experience, including:
- A yearlong (fall and spring) seminar, Asian American Studies 194A/B. The mandatory seminar is a 2-unit per semester, graded class that meets on Wednesdays 4-6pm. If you’re admitted to Bloom, you will be given more information about how to enroll in the seminar.
- Support community development activities and other Theme Program activities.
- Join one Bloom community committee per semester.
- Attend Bloom fall and spring retreats.
Signature Events & Programming
Bloom residents live together on a floor in Towle Hall, which is situated on the south edge of campus a few blocks away from the bustle of Telegraph Avenue. For more information about Unit 2, including amenities and features, academic services, and more, please visit Housing.
Living Space
Bloom residents live together on a floor in Towle Hall in Unit 2, which is situated on the south edge of campus a few blocks away from the bustle of Telegraph Avenue. For more information about Unit 2, including amenities and features, academic services, and more, please visit Housing.
Contact
If you have additional questions about living arrangements that are not answered here, please email Residential Life at themeprograms@berkeley.edu. If you have questions about Bloom, please email Miya Sommers, Assistant Director of Asian Pacific American Student Development, at miyasommers@berkeley.edu.
Boba and Karaoke Night at Unit 2
Love Our Community Tour around Lake Merritt
BLOOM: ASIAN AMERICAN COMMUNITY PROGRAM
Dedicated to the Asian American Experience at Berkeley
Bloom focuses on developing community and support for students interested in engaging with their peers on contemporary issues, culture, and history of Asian Americans. The program offers a dynamic environment for interaction and learning through academic and social activities such as weekly seminars, field trips, academic support, and community events to ensure that all students are able to bloom during their first year on campus.