Eddie Huang

Eddie Huang's story is at once singular and universal, for many children of immigrants must find their own way within two often conflicting cultures, but he forged his own path to success. Now he tells his own story: The story of a bright, brash and ambitious Taiwanese kid who never allowed anyone to define him.

In his book, “Fresh Off the Boat,” chef/food personality turned memoirist Eddie Huang tells the story of growing up within two often competing cultures, and of finding his way through that bifurcated world to become the person he is today — the person who never let race define who he was or who he could be.

The New York Times review praised Huang’s book as “a surprisingly sophisticated memoir about race and assimilation in America … as much James Baldwin and Jay-Z as Amy Tan.” He serves as a producer for the ABC comedy series that is loosely based on his book.

In his talk, Huang takes a look at his life so far and asks: What does it mean to be Asian in America right now? While acknowledging that race is part of who we are, his advice is not to allow that factor alone to define you. At turns frank, hilarious, and always hopeful, in both his memoir and his talk, he tells “Eddie’s story”—the story of a bright, brash, and hardworking Taiwanese kid who never let race define who he was or who he could be. His message: find your own story and tell it!

Huang’s presentation, “An Evening in Eddie’s World,” is part of the Student Union Speakers Series and sponsored by the Chinese Students Association.

PLEASE NOTE: Seating for the public may be limited. Check back for information.

Watch: Huang TED Talk