We investigated meanings of smoking in white and Asian--American college students with different acculturation patterns. The associations between meanings of smoking and smoking behaviors were also examined. A survey was administered to two post secondary institutions in Southern California. A total of 460 Asian and 115 White students completed the survey. Results of this study demonstrate that the determinants of smoking may vary across cultural groups. A culturally appropriate smoking education curriculum tailored to different acculturation patterns and ethnicities is necessary.