The term "model minority" describes subordinate groups who find success and don’t take action against their oppressor. In short, it applies in complete entirety to Asian Americans. It celebrates passivity in the eye of discrimination. It enables America to overlook the Asian American experience, which is not exclusively med school attendance or martial arts involvement. It encourages stereotypes.

Being a "model minority" often just feels like you’re invalid.

When you’re not white in a white-dominated society, you acquire an armor, at some point, against every demeaning insult thrown your way. I understand that this is just the way the world works. But the drawbacks of being Asian in America extend beyond insults or rude comments or questions about my accent and second language (both of which I do not have). It includes the stereotypes that I’m supposed to view as positive compliments, such as that Asians are automatically good students.

I am a highly conscientious student who takes academics seriously and spends more time doing homework than socializing.

But here is the problem with fitting this uplifting stereotype: If I am a good student, it’s only because I’m Asian.

If I weren’t a good student, I would be a discredit to the Asian race. Every positive stereotype ignores my work ethic and the abilities I have worked to cultivate. It makes my accomplishments a result of luck and my race. I devote time and effort to academics because I want to build a successful career and fulfilling life.

Good grades do not just magically happen because of the country I’m from.

Another happy stereotype: Asians are good at, and love, math. I cannot stand math. I find no enjoyment in math. I’m a student interested and invested in English Literature and Performing Arts who will never be taking another math class. Why? Because I love creativity and hate numbers and formulas. Because I did not sign a contract saying that, due to my race, I would love a particular subject. Because my ethnicity does not determine my interests. Being an Asian American should not restrict me or put me in a box. I should not be invalidated simply because of stereotypes or my status as a model minority in America.