This week I was given the opportunity to work on a research project on housing within Assembly District 49 representing Alhambra, Arcadia, El Monte, Monterey Park, Rosemead, San Gabriel, San Marino, South Pasadena, Temple City, and other unincorporated areas of South San Gabriel, North El Monte, and East Pasadena. Throughout this research, my main focuses were based on the number of unhoused individuals and how cities are finding solutions to address the housing crisis. As someone who is not familiarized with the city and demographics, it became very difficult trying to find what cities are currently doing and what resources to utilize for reliability. Spending most of my time figuring out what sources to use and what specific housing topics to look into, I researched a lot of housing initiative programs and services that cities are providing for residents. During this time, I felt as if my research was not progressing. Soon, I finally decided to speak and ask for a recommendation from my supervisor. It was the moment when I asked for clarification and guidance that I knew what I needed to do.
Asking questions is such a powerful additional tool leading to a step closer to success. As someone who is inexperienced within a certain topic, asking individuals who are experts in the field is a benefit and contribution to succeeding. The concept of asking questions can be seen as small; however, it can make a greater impact on positive results. Positive outcomes of asking questions are benefits such as gaining more knowledge, having a better understanding, relationship development, personal development, and more opportunities.
As an example, in moments of confusion and uncertainty when working on a topic, it is better to ask questions for clarification rather than make a mistake and waste time. In addition, by asking for clarification from expertise, it would make the work a lot more effective and efficient. Asking questions will not only make the work prevent minimal mistakes and easier, but it will enhance personal skills along with gaining knowledge. Asking questions will enable individuals to gain new knowledge from others by understanding and learning new perspectives and how to deal when facing similar issues.
The views and opinions expressed in this publication are those of the author and do not reflect the views or positions of CAUSE or the CAUSE network.
Written by Pa Houa Lee, Leadership Academy 2023 Intern.
The CAUSE Leadership Academy (CLA) for students is a nine-week, paid, internship program that prepares college undergraduates to lead and advocate for the Asian Pacific Islander community on their campuses and beyond.