by Melinda Wong, Class of 2025
The Korean Student Association (KSA) began in 2008 as an off-shoot of another, now defunct, CIO focused on Korean culture. Since then, the tight-knit but rapidly expanding group has held many social events, cultural festivals, and increased awareness of Korean traditions while also creating a community that is open and welcome to UVA students of all backgrounds.
I spoke with Nitin Elavarasu, the current President of KSA about his experience within the organization and how it helped him find his home away from home in Charlottesville. Elavarasu described joining several cultural organizations his first year at UVA, but finding a friendly and engaging community at KSA. Particularly due to gathering restrictions related to the COVID-19 pandemic, Elavarasu pointed out that KSA’s family system where upperclassmen are paired with new members really helped him find his footing at UVA. His “big” even recommended to apply to be a first year representative, his first leadership position within the organization. As a first year cultural representative, Elavarasu helped to organize and staff events while learning the ropes from upperclassmen. As a second year, Elavarasu took on greater responsibility by serving as the culture chair, where he planned cultural events, served on the KSA board, and directed KSA’s annual parody short film. His responsibilities have since ballooned as President, but the numerous leadership opportunities within the organization have helped him prepare for the role.
As a large, vibrant, and diverse organization, KSA has many different branches who all put together events for members. A big portion of these events are related to Korean culture, including Korea Day during the fall semester and K-EXPO in the spring semester. On Korea Day, there are traditional Korean games, cultural jeopardy, Hanbok displays, and both traditional and modern dance performances put on by members of KSA. At the spring K-EXPO, members debuted an original parody of popular k-drama (this year it was Squid Game), cultural performances, and a fashion show. Another key aspect of KSA is social events, whether they are getting to know your family through family-specific events and big/little bonding or through the annual Beach Week trip, there are many ways throughout the year where members get to know one another.
Melinda Wong
College of Arts and Sciences, Class of 2025
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