Proud to Be API: Spotlight #1

My name is Olive Giner, and I’m currently a sophomore Journalism major with a minor in Cultural Anthropology. I am part of Kappa Phi Lambda Sorority, which is an asian-interest greek organization on campus. I also work for the Nevada Sagebrush as their copy editor, and serve as a Resident Assistant at Great Basin Hall. I am a proud first-generation student and child of two Filipino immigrants. Knowing the sacrifices my parents made to give me a life in this country drives my ambition to shape a bright future for myself, even when being first-gen makes me feel lost. My family’s struggles do not define my future, but being Filipino-American has undeniably shaped who I am; I feel my identity in my passions and in my advocacy, and I am grateful for the unique perspective I have as a queer Asian-American. I am lucky to have grown up in a community where I never felt othered for being in the skin I’m in or for the culture I celebrate, but coming to Reno was a difficult transition. I found belonging and family in Kappa Phi Lambda, and feel supported by my peers both at the Sagebrush and in ResLife. Thanks to the people I’ve met, I’ve been able to explore the importance of embracing a Pan-Asian identity and growing up Filipino. Coming to UNR has only furthered my deep pride in my identity, and shown me the need to continue to be outspoken to ensure that people with various identities are represented and met with equity.