This month, we say goodbye to seven TAP-NY board members. We asked them to reflect on some of their favorite TAP memories and experiences – see below for their thoughts and memories of their time on board!
Rachel Lin, Outgoing Vice President
Connie Wang, Outgoing Vice President
Warren Niu, Outgoing Social Chair
Connie Liu, Outgoing Community Chair
Jeff Hwang, Outgoing Cultural Chair
Allison Wong, Outgoing Cultural Chair
Emily Oing, Outgoing Treasurer
Rachel Lin – Outgoing Vice President (TAP-NY Board 2019-2022)
1) What was your favorite TAP memory and why?
There are too many amazing memories that I want to share, but for now I will go with the 2020 TACL Convention in Atlanta. Convention took place shortly after I joined the board and it was such a memorable welcome to the TAP/TACL fam. It was a weekend full of cultural/identity discussions, delicious bento boxes, and endless shenanigans. For me, this first convention was pivotal and exemplified how special it is to be a part of the TAP community. In all honesty, most of my favorite TAP memories are the seemingly “small” and unsuspecting interactions – events that turn into daylong hangs, hilarious board chats (all 9182437 permutations), and quick check-ins with one another that make a world of difference.
2) How has TAP helped you grow as a person and as a member of this community?
Being a part of TAP has transformed my New York experience and I am so grateful to have found this community. New York City is interesting (for lack of a better word) because you can be surrounded by people, but still feel extremely alone at times. Once I joined TAP, I found a family that is unwaveringly present, supportive, and genuine. I have experienced some of my most significant highs and lows, and grown much more into myself, during my tenure on board. I continue to be inspired by my fellow TAP members and community partners, and attribute so much of who I am to my experiences with TAP.
3) What are some words of advice you would give to incoming board members?
Welcome to the best years of your life! I am so excited for you to join the TAP board family. You will meet absolutely incredible people, from general members to peers on board/alumni to community leaders. Everyone has their own, individual TAP experience – definitely feel empowered to pursue areas you are passionate about and to voice ideas for improving our community. TAP is one of the most supportive and encouraging groups that I have been a part of, and as a board member, I truly felt like anything was possible. Remember to breathe every once in a while and take pride in the impact that you are making – and have fun!
Connie Wang – Outgoing Vice President (TAP-NY Board 2019-2022)
1) What was your favorite TAP memory and why?
One of my favorite TAP events was the Chinatown flower planting event that we hosted in partnership with Chinatown BID in the spring of 2021. It stands out as a special memory because it was one of our first in-person events post-Covid, and it was amazing to see so many people come out and support our community on an early Saturday morning.
2) How has TAP helped you grow as a person and as a member of this community?
Through TAP, I’ve been able to meet so many new people and partake in new experiences. I’ve felt myself challenged and pushed to grow, and I’m so grateful for all the experiences and people that have shaped my time on board. I’m truly appreciative of all the amazing people and talent we have in this community, and how open and generous people are with sharing their time and energy. I’ve learned so much from our community and hope to bring that forward with me to whatever adventures I find myself on in the future.
3) What are some words of advice you would give to incoming board members?
Come in with an open mind and be willing to try new things! There are so many possibilities ahead of you and I’m so excited to see what you all create and accomplish. Don’t be afraid to push forward your own vision and ideas, the TAP community will be here to support you unconditionally. And most importantly, have fun and enjoy, it’s a special time 🙂
Warren Niu – Outgoing Social Chair (TAP-NY Board 2019-2022)
1) What was your favorite TAP memory and why?
My favorite memories of TAP were seeing the ideas for events pitched by myself and fellow board members come to fruition. I witnessed firsthand the hours of planning and hard work that everyone puts in to put up events and bring the TAP community together. For the events that I personally planned over the years, the ones that standout were the TAP Blind dating event, the TAP speed dating events and the virtual game nights during the height of COVID. Planning the right program can be stressful at times, however, there really isn’t anything more rewarding than hearing positive feedback about your events and seeing our members become good friends over time.
And of course, to my fellow board members I’ve met over the past 3 years – Thank you for your support and friendship. I will forever cherish the memories of the times we spent on board together.
2) How has TAP helped you grow as a person and as a member of this community?
It’s hard to pinpoint exactly how I’ve grown since I’ve joined TAP. However, what I will say is that TAP has helped me become more appreciative of every person I meet. As the social chair, I frequently found myself meeting all sorts of individuals with fascinating stories, whether they’re new TAP members, venue managers, small business owners, etc. Everybody has something unique that they bring to the table. I guess you can say that being the social chair has helped me become more…social.
3) What are some words of advice you would give to incoming board members?
Just go for it. If you have an idea, be brave and see how far you can take it . Remember, you have the support of not only your fellow board members & alumni, but a vast community as well. We’re all here to help & see you succeed.
Allison Wong – Outgoing Cultural Chair (TAP-NY Board 2018-2022
1) What was your favorite TAP memory and why?
I have so many fond memories of my time with TAP, from the smaller volunteering events and monthly dinners, to the rowdy TAPpy hours, ski trips, and boat parties! If I had to pick though, it would be our board retreats. Traveling somewhere together to spend the weekend bonding, cooking, and hanging out – always one of the things I looked forward to every year.
2) How has TAP helped you grow as a person and as a member of this community?
One of the reasons I joined TAP in the first place was to break myself out of my comfort zone. I love being a homebody, but TAP has helped push me to be more active, to explore more of the city, and most importantly, meet a ton of incredible people. I’m so thankful to have made so many friends and connections from TAP that will stay with me for a long time.
3) What are some words of advice you would give to incoming board members?
Congrats – you’ve joined an incredible group of people! Go outside your comfort zone, support each other, and have fun! I promise you can’t go wrong
Connie Liu – Outgoing Community Chair (TAP-NY Board 2021-2022)
1) What was your favorite TAP memory and why?
Apple picking at Outhouse Orchard was particularly memorable. We trained out of the city to pick (Fuji) apples! It was such a wholesome day activity interspersed with chill, meaningful bonding time. I also brought home many juicy apples, cider, and local honey.
2) How has TAP helped you grow as a person and as a member of this community?
Being a part of TAP has challenged me to think more deeply for the outer community. It is fulfilling to contribute to society and simultaneously feel connected to a larger family.
3) What are some words of advice you would give to incoming board members?
The details of planning and community-building can become distracting. If that happens, take time to reset and remember the mission of TAP Board and the organization. Above all else, have fun!
Jeff Hwang – Outgoing Cultural Chair (TAP-NY Board 2021-2022)
1) What was your favorite TAP memory and why?
being made to dress up as a bunny to greet peeps at the flushing taiwan center’s easter egg hunt event. i was astounded by how much joy something as small and silly as that could spark.
2) How has TAP helped you grow as a person and as a member of this community?
i appreciate that tap has helped me to connect meaningfully with taiwanese business owners in nyc.
3) What are some words of advice you would give to incoming board members?
have fun.