HSAB is a student-initiated service organization founded in 2008 to promote higher education and cultural understanding within the Hmong community. Members attend general meetings, cultural workshops, and community events, while the club provides academic support through a test bank, e-library, and resource referrals. Signature programs include the Pursuit of Higher Education (PoHE), a free three-day overnight program for Hmong high school students hosted on campus, and the Txhawb Nqa college mentorship program.
ApplicationsApplications typically open early-December and close late-February (for PoHE); PoHE 2027 application coming soon
2008
Year founded
3
PoHE program length in days (2 nights)
22
Txhawb Nqa inaugural cohort mentees
Events They Host
Pursuit of Higher Education (PoHE)
Annual three-day, two-night all-expense-paid program on the UC Berkeley campus for Hmong high school students from Northern and Central California. Held in mid-April. Includes workshops on Hmong history, culture, identity, and academic pathways.
Organization Collaboration Day (OC Day)
Annual gathering of Hmong Student Associations across California. HSAB attends; in 2016 it was hosted by Hmong University Student Association (HUSA) of CSU Sacramento and held in Sacramento.
Hmong National Development Conference (HNDC)
Held in San Jose, CA. HSAB members attended.
Hmong Poetry: Paj Huam Workshop
Workshop on Hmong poetry (Paj Huam) as a form of expression. Open to attendees beyond just members.
Member Experiences
Annual Welcome BBQ
Held at the start of each academic year for new and returning HSAB members.
General Retreat
Weekend retreat for HSAB members. The 2016 retreat was held in Pope Valley; the 2018 retreat in Hollister, CA. Activities have included a Taekwondo lesson, swing-dance lesson, and hiking.
HSABlloween
Halloween-themed member potluck and costume party with activities and a best costume contest.
HSABmas and Senior Recognition Banquet
Winter celebration and banquet recognizing graduating seniors.
HSAB 10-Year Anniversary Celebration
Special celebration marking the club's 10th anniversary.