Who are Burmese and Bhutanese Americans? What caused their migration? While national data shows Bhutanese and Burmese constituting a large proportion of refugees entering the United States in recent years, they, however, remain largely invisible in the current national discourse on Asian American socioeconomic outcomes. This article addresses this gap by providing a historical and demographic portrait of the Burmese and Bhutanese communities—specifically addressing their social, economic, political, and educational adaptation patterns. Data in this article draws from U.S. Census Bureau data, and interviews with Burmese and Bhutanese refugees who are working in different capacities in their respective communities.

Choosing a mentor requires a certain level of introspection for both the mentor and the mentee. The dynamics of mentorship may change depending on the academic status of the mentee. Regardless, mentors should help their trainees grow both academically and professionally. The success of an individual in the fields of science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and medicine (STEMM) depends on more than intellectual capacity; a holistic view encompassing all factors that contribute to scientific achievement is all-important. Specifically, one new method scientists can adopt is quotients, which are scales and techniques that can be used to measure aptitude in a specific area. In this paper, we focus on these factors and how to grow one's adversity quotient (AQ), social quotient (SQ), and Personal Growth Initiative Scale (PGIS). We also look at how mentors can better understand the biases of their trainees. In addressing this, mentors can help trainees become more visible and encourage other trainees to become allies while increasing the visibility of their peers.

Chapter 4 details Hmong experiences in combat aviation in the Secret War. It examines the dangerous flying conditions they faced in northern Laos, where, in addition to enemy antiaircraft artillery, freak accidents claimed the lives of some pilots. Poor quality aircraft, a hazardous runway, problematic leadership at all levels, and varied skills resulted in low chances for survival for Hmong pilots. Because of their close proximity to enemy territories, pilots on active duty from 1968 to 1972 were forced to participate in combat missions daily. The chapter also presents the many problems that unfolded in the CIA’s secret city, Long Cheng. Whereas American airmen came and went on tours of duty, Hmong pilots flew until they were either killed in action or injured. Either outcome harmed their families. Injured pilots were no longer considered useful, resulting in military leaders cutting them off financially and socially.

Disability remains an underacknowledged and underdiscussed topic in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and medicine (STEMM). Social stigma and fear of negative outcomes have resulted in a consistent lack of disclosure that is especially present in STEMM. Disabilities cause social and professional difficulties for those that have them. While some faculty can be allies, past literature shows that steps must be taken to make disabilities visible in STEMM at both student and faculty levels. Here we offer suggestions to better support faculty and students in enhancing the outcomes of individuals who have invisible disabilities. Critically, techniques such as abolishing stigma, universal learning, and better mentoring may improve the challenges faced by those who self-identify as being disabled.