667Z Spring 2026 Hamburger Coke: An Immigration Journey

667Z  Hamburger Coke: An Immigration Journey
One Session
Instructor: Ilryong Moon
Coordinators: Bonnie Nelson, Sarah Park
Wednesday, 9:40—11:05, May 13
The instructor came to the United States at the age of 17 with limited English and a determination to succeed. As an ESL student, he overcame poverty and cultural barriers, graduating from T.C. Williams High School, and going on to earn college degrees. As the first Asian American and Korean American elected official in Fairfax County, he brings a unique perspective on leadership, identity, and civic engagement. Drawing from his book Hamburger Coke, this course invites students to reflect on resilience, equity, and belonging, while exploring how personal history and public service can intersect to shape an American story.
Ilryong Moon was born in South Korea and immigrated to the U.S. in 1974. He earned degrees from Harvard University and the College of William & Mary. A retired attorney and longtime Fairfax County School Board member, he stays active in education and community service and enjoys auditing classes at GMU.