Frequently Asked Questions

The Vietnamese Student Association (VSA) is a student-led organization dedicated to promoting Vietnamese culture, heritage, and community on campus at UAB. We serve as a platform for Vietnamese students and those interested in Vietnamese culture to come together, connect, and engage in various activities and events.

We organize a wide range of cultural, social, and educational activities throughout the year. These may include cultural performances, social gatherings, fundraisers, and collaborations with other student organizations on campus and off campus.

Joining VSA provides opportunities to learn about Vietnamese culture, make new friends, participate in cultural events, develop leadership skills, and contribute to the community. It can also serve as a support network for students away from home.

You can stay updated on VSA events and news by following our social media accounts, joining our GroupMe, subscribing to our newsletters, checking out our website, or attending our general meetings and events.

Anyone interested in Vietnamese culture or who identifies as Vietnamese can join VSA. Membership is open to both Vietnamese and non-Vietnamese students at UAB.

To become an official member, you can sign up by filling out our membership form. This form is open year-round. Once completed, our Secretary will process your form and add you to our official roster on Engage, officially making you a member!

The Star System is VSA’s special attendance tracker for our official events throughout the school year. It is used for major events with limited capacity, such as our annual Night in Saigon trip and Paris By Night GBM. Attendance for these events is prioritized for members who have gained the most stars throughout the year.

Yes, non-students can participate in VSA events and activities! However, they will be ineligible to apply for an official membership and will not be able to partake in the Star System for members.

Yes, your VSA membership officially expires after each academic year. To renew your membership, fill out our membership form.

No, you are not required to attend a certain number of VSA events each year to keep your membership.

Lotus Under the Lights (LUTL) is our annual cultural show, aiming to celebrate Vietnamese culture on campus and in the community. Through Lotus, we showcase the beauty of Vietnamese culture and Lunar New Year traditions with food, dances, and a skit. Tickets are limited and tend to sell out fast, so be sure to prepare for their release date! Everyone is welcome to participate or attend, regardless of age, race, gender, or religion.

Yes, we often provide leadership opportunities for members, including positions on the executive board, committees, Lotus executive board, and Lotus committees, allowing students to develop leadership skills and contribute to the organization's mission. These opportunities are offered annually.