Do you get people to take notice when they make assumptions about your race?

Question

i'm pacific islander/asian and my old manager was like "you look like your good in computers" and she was serious about it

and then this member in the faculty says "so are you majoring in computers"

omg i don't want to be known as a computer nerd just because i'm asian

i didn't make them notice of there stupid racial stereotyping

Answer 1

Considering your heritage - I wouldn't as it's a compliment to you and would be considered impolite to comment on.  The world of computers requires more than average intelligence to understand and be able to initiate innovations in this area.  It is, generally, assumed by Caucasians (such as I) that people who are Oriental are, not only, more intelligent than most but, usually, (in my opinion) have a deeper sense of commitment to projects they undertake.  On a more personal side - of my 7 physicians, I've gone out of my way to seek those who are Oriental:  My G.P., orthopaedic surgeon and one endocrinologist are Chinese, while my other endocrinologist and my gastroenterologist are Chinese-Filopino.   My G.P. headed the small group which set up, over 14 months, the entire computerized patient network for the largest hospital group in the southwestern USA (and, still, saw his patients on a limited schedule).  And, the best plastic surgeon I know, on both a professional and social basis, (hand surgery) is an Indian woman.  To those who believe I'm prejudiced, or form generalized opinions, it appears I'm guilty!  

Answer 2

lol just ask them "why do you say that?"  and see their answer, then ask "do i look like the computer type" but politely, just to get their real  reaction, not one they are trying to back out of because they feel they offended you. then just mention yeah i dont fall in with that stereotype, i do my own thing. and you let people know without having much conflict, more or less youre "educating" them about their assumptions and they will watch what they say next time.