Asians Around Appalachia: Solas Chhin-Kreiner

Solas Chhin-Kreiner is an Asian-American high school senior from Morgantown, West Virginia. Born in Edmonton, Canada to parents of both European and Chinese-Cambodian descent, he was raised in the Morgantown area. Solas enjoys sports, baking, and Rubik’s Cubes in his free time.

Interview

1. Have you ever felt out of place due to your identity? If so, where did you find a sense of community?

As someone who traveled across WV and to many surrounding states to compete in golf tournaments, I’d often feel like a minority who was out of the norm of those that I competed with. Although it was uncomfortable at times, I still found myself bonding with my competitors over the shared enjoyment of the game. I’ve been able to appreciate that people are happy to share and make connections in many activities they’re passionate about (not just golf) despite differences in ethnicity and upbringing. 

2. Can you tell us about one of your stories related to being an AppalAsian? (e.g. household traditions, bullying/harassment, family business, etc.) 

One of my favorite parts about being an AppalAsian is the exposure I’ve been given to various cuisines. It’s a treat to be raised with a variety of foods from cultures that show my family history. Some of my favorite home meals include a rice-flour turmeric infused crepe (Banh chao, Cambodian), a rice-noodle soup with meats and veggies (kathiew, Cambodian), potato pancakes (latkes, Eastern European). However, sometimes it is unfortunate that there aren’t many people who have shared a similar upbringing in terms of food that I can bond with. At the same time, it opens the opportunity for both me and others to learn more and experience cuisines we otherwise wouldn’t get the chance to share.

3. What is one Appalachian / Asian American related policy issue that’s important to you and why? (e.g. lack of representation, barriers to education/healthcare, economic inequality, etc.)

As someone who has been enjoying the AppalAsian experience, I haven’t followed or had strong feelings about specific policies. I think cultural differences can and do create some divide between groups, but I also think it creates openings and opportunities to learn more about each other.

4. What is one piece of advice you would give to AppalAsians struggling to fit in?

My advice would be to follow your passions. If you are constantly doing things you love and enjoy, there will always be someone who feels the same about those activities. It’s much easier to connect and open up with people through a shared activity and passion that brings out your joy and happiness.