These Asian Americans faced racism growing up, but they won't let it define them

The recent Atlanta-area spa shootings that left eight people dead, including six Asian women, are shining a spotlight on the struggles of Asian American communities across the US. Experts are warning of a rise in anti-Asian violence, and how it will leave lasting mental health repercussions, especially for young adults. CNN spoke to high school and college students about the prejudice they've faced growing up Asian American in the US.

The 19-year-old says growing up Asian American hasn't been easy. When she was in grade school there were classmates who made hurtful comments. They told her Chinese food was strange and one of them even told her Chinese girls aren't attractive. But she doesn't want those experiences defining her. "I would rather define my own existence," she says.