The Asia Research Institute (ARI) Undergraduate Fellows Program is open to students in any major who want to learn more about Asian cultures and societies, explore Asia-related careers, and help plan and volunteer for engaging academic and cultural events at UB. 

Undergraduate fellows will:

  1. Meet monthly with guests from UB and the community to learn about their work and experiences in Asia
  2. Interact with guest speakers and performers at UB to discuss research and careers
  3. Learn about Asia-focused graduate programs
  4. Help to plan and publicize ARI events
  5. Participate and assist with ARI conferences, performances and other activities
  6. Advise ARI on the development of new programs
  7. Help to generate student interest in ARI programs by serving as liaisons to UB student groups and Asian language classes
APPLY HERE

Program Benefits

ARI offers undergraduate fellows a year-long (2 semester) program that deepens their knowledge of Asia, Asian diaspora, and Asia-related careers. Undergraduate fellows become part of the Asian studies community at UB, providing input into ARI events and programs and gaining experience in event planning.

Undergraduate fellows receive one credit each semester they participate in the program.

Undergraduate fellows are encouragd to pursue projects of personal interest that could also benefit the broader Asian studies community at UB.

Students who participate actively in the Undergraduate Fellows Program may receive priority for competitive ARI student funding opportunities.

As an added benefit, ARI provides meals or refreshments at most events attended by fellows.

Program expectations

Undergraduate fellows commit to a year-long program. They should plan to attend monthly meetings, event planning meetings as their schedules allow, participate enthusiastically, assist with events, and generally be supportive of the work of the Asia Research Institute.

In addition to general participation, fellows write a two-page reflection paper at the end of spring semester or successfully complete a project related to ARI work. Examples of recent projects include:

  • Organizing an ARI film screening for Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month in conjunction with a UB student club
  • Reaching out to Buffalo public schools to introduce ARI programs and make connections with teachers and principals 

Learn More

To learn more about the ARI Undergraduate Fellows program, email the Asia Research Institute