At Aliso Niguel High School, there are a variety of clubs that teach students about different cultures and their significance. One club that stands out is the Cultures of South Asia Club, also known as COSA.
COSA was founded by Arna Rajpal, a sophomore at ANHS. Mrs. Anderson, an Honors English 1 and AP Lang teacher, hosts COSA meetings at lunch in room 301.
“I was inspired to start COSA after performing Bharatnatyam (a classical Indian dance) at a cultural fair in my middle school,” says Arna. “This motivated me to create the club in my freshman year and cultivate a community where students could celebrate and learn about the rich and diverse cultures of South Asia.”
Through presentations, food tastings, games, collaborative discussions and cultural activities. COSA is dedicated to spreading awareness and appreciation of South Asian cultures and traditions.
COSA welcomes anyone interested in learning more about South Asia’s cultures and practices, whether they are from the region or not.
“A typical COSA meeting starts with a short presentation about a South Asian tradition or festival. After that, members participate in a related activity such as playing games, creating art, or watching a short educational video. We always make time for discussion and sharing experiences,” Arna shares.
COSA is an amazing club because it has impacted the lives of students in so many different ways. COSA has broken through common stereotypes about South Asian cultures. It gives students an opportunity to celebrate their backgrounds as well as learning about new ones.
“COSA brings awareness to its [South Asia’s} vast languages, dances, and beautiful traditions,” said Arna.
Outside of school, COSA’s leadership team plans and organizes future meetings and possible ideas for upcoming activities. Through COSA’s pamphlets, online Discord server, and Remind, members can stay connected and be notified of upcoming meetings and events. COSA’s leadership team does a phenomenal job keeping things organize
d and keeping members up to date.
There are many reasons why the Cultures of South Asia Club stands out at ANHS. It has impacted the lives of so many students, expanding their knowledge and appreciation for South Asia and its cultures. What a better way to learn, grow and connect than by joining COSA?
