About Us

What are the benefits of becoming a member of SASO?

Part of what makes college an enriching experience is the people you meet and the relationships you develop. At SASO, we create a forum at our events whereby students can meet various people and share experiences. Other benefits of becoming a member include discounted rates and first priority at every one of our events.

How do I become a member of SASO?

Memberships can be purchased at any SASO meeting, event. For more information speak to an officer or email ucdsaso@gmail.com

What is the South Asian Student Organization

Formerly known as the Indian Student Association at UC Davis for the past 10 years, the South Asian Student Organization was formed as an act of solidarity amongst our South Asian brothers and sisters at UC Davis.

The primary goal of SASO at UCD is to promote South Asian cultural awareness and unity in an effort to bridge the gap that separates the South Asian countries. Despite borders that separate Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Pakistan and Sri Lanka, these differences are overcome by a common culture and understanding.

SASO at UCD is not an exclusionary organization. People of all races and backgrounds are welcome at every one of our events. Our goal is not only to educate South Asians about South Asian culture, but to educate Davis students and faculty as well on the many facets of our sub-continent.

What kind of events does SASO put on?

SASO puts on a myriad of events during the course of the year, yet our most outstanding and awaited event is the annual South Asian culture show in the Spring. Sold out every year, this is the crown jewel of all our events. Yet our organization is not defined by this event alone. After a long wait, SASO is privileged to bring back the well anticipated Raas-Garba to UC Davis at Freeborn Hall on November 9th. Raas-Garba is a traditional folk dance from the Indian state of Gujurat. As an added emphasis this year, SASO will be looking to incorporate other such traditional events from the various different regions in South Asia throughout the year.

Furthermore, social events such as the Winter Formal, Spring Banquet, barbecues and dances provide the student body with a recreational break from the cultural focus of the organization. Finally, SASO envisions a strong community service program this year, with plans for an unprecedented number of projects and charity fundraisers to help out the local, national and South Asian communities with all our resources.

How is SASO different this year from past years?

Rather than being an association of only Indian students, the club has switched its focus to become an organization of a South Asian community covering eight major countries. South Asia covers encompasses all religions and many different cultures, yet SASO envisions a common vision, a common unity amongst the members and interested students, faculty and local community

Additionally, the structure of the club consists of a Board containing the President, Vice-President/Finance, Secretary, Public Relations Chair, Community Service Chair, Academic Chair, Tech Chair and Finance Chair. The Chairs are in charge of their respective committees. Thus, the Community Service Chair controls the Community Service Committee, which in turn organizes service events with the approval of the Board. Of course, membership entails participation in SASO events and service and to support the organization in any way possible.