Although April showers bring May flowers, Asian-American students at NIU are concentrating on more than just rain.

Asian-American Heritage Month will be celebrated throughout April with various activities.

Events planned for the month include a career workshop series, a brown bag lecture series, films, cultural nights, an essay contest, discussions and receptions, said Murali Krishnamurthi, director of faculty development.

“It is important for students to participate in these events so that they can have a better understanding of Asian and Asian-American cultures and heritage, and benefit from the diversity they bring to the campus and the community,” Krishnamurthi said. “The events are also fun. Students can enjoy the food, movies and fashion show along with attending the lecture series and workshops.”

Ryan Billedo is the vice president of Internal Affairs for the Asian American Association.

“I am involved with Asian American Association because I have always been involved with student organizations. I have passion and dedication for planning, networking and running programs for NIU,” Billedo said.

Along with Billedo, many other NIU students are planning events to help celebrate the culture of Asian-Americans.

Anabella Dichoso, the Asian American Association treasurer, is one of those people.

“I definitely recommend students to get involved with Asian American Association because it promotes a cultural awareness, which helps break down the barriers with other cultural groups, and also to educate those who still have the mind-set of the Asian community,” Dichoso said. “It not only promotes a learning experience for those unaware of the Asian and Asian-American culture, but also is a great way to meet new people.”

Billedo agrees.

“I recommend this organization for all students, not just Asian-Americans,” Billedo said. “During our monthly general meetings, we feature an Asiatic/South East Asian country. We provide some history into their culture as well as authentic food native to that country of the month.”

Other major events planned for Asian-American Heritage Month include the annual fashion show at the Egyptian Theatre and the Taste of Asia, which provide hands-on activities by Asian Pacific American/Asian Interest Student Organizations as well as the Asian American Association.

“The events are open to all faculty, staff and students at NIU, and even members of the community can participate,” Krishnamurthi said. “Almost all of the events are also free. We hope these events will be a good opportunity for everyone to get to know about Asian and Asian-American cultures and heritage and celebrate the month.”

Celebrating Asian-American Heritage Month is something Billedo takes great pride in.

“Being Asian-American is important to me because it is my history and culture,” Billedo said. “Although AAHM is only one month, I’m a strong believer that it shouldn’t be limited to a month, but rather a continuous education process to teach others about our culture. This goes for all other cultures that are typecast into a month of celebration.”