In this reflective episode, Dr. Jiyeong Yi shares her remarkable journey from South Korea to becoming an Associate Professor of Mathematics Education at Iowa State University. Jiyeong discusses the intersections of her identity as a first-generation immigrant, a mother, and an educator navigating anti-Asian racism in America. She recounts the challenges of overcoming language barriers, the U.S. visa system, a battle with cancer, and cultural isolation while finding her voice as an advocate for immigrant and bilingual students.

This conversation delves into her groundbreaking Educational Studies in Mathematics article from 2024, Rethinking Anti-Asian Racism in Mathematics Education: The Hidden Racism Made Visible through AsianCrit with Dr. Ji Won Son and Dr. Hyunyi Jung. In this conversation, Dr. Yi expands on how she uses AsianCrit in mathematics education, her commitment to dismantling the model minority myth, and the unique struggles faced by Asian immigrant families.

Shout Out to Dr. Ruth Ahn of California State University, Pomona and her instrumental mentorship and support of Dr. Yi.

Bonus: Here are links to the books Garden of Dreams and Even Better, written in Korean and English by students and their families from the Changing the Gap Parents Book Club organized by Dr. Yi in Ames, Iowa.