Established in 2008, HSAB is a student-initiated service organization dedicated to promoting higher education and fostering cultural understanding within the Hmong community. To further amplify Hmong representation in academic spaces, HSAB launched the Pursuit of Higher Education program in 2008. PoHE is a three-day, two-night educational experience that takes place on the UC Berkeley campus in mid-April. Selected participants will engage in academic and cultural workshops, leadership-building activities, and opportunities to deepen their understanding of Hmong identity and how to succeed as a Hmong-American.

This is an all-expense-paid program covering food, transportation, and housing. To ensure we can fully fund every participant’s experience, eligibility is limited to students residing in Northern and Central California due to travel and budgetary constraints, however, exceptions can be made if an applicant can arrange their own transportation. Please note that academic performance is not a consideration in the selection process; students from all academic backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply.

Throughout the program, HSAB will welcome students to UC Berkeley’s campus to experience firsthand what higher education looks like for Hmong-identifying students. PoHE will include workshops, community-building activities, and discussions focused on Hmong history, culture, identity, and contemporary issues facing the Hmong community today. Participants will also have the opportunity to connect with Hmong-identifying college students and professionals to gain insight into their academic and career journeys.