Student Success Stories
Chinsik Kim
Born and raised in Inchon, Korea, Chinsik Kim ‘08 came to Utah Valley University in 2001 eager to obtain an education.
Although he enjoyed his time at the institution, it came with a heavy burden. As an international student Kim began school with challenges that most students never encounter. He did not know English and he did not have enough money to pay tuition.
“I faced a lot of difficulties,” Kim said. “However, paying my tuition was the main problem to me because I could not have any control over it.”
Kim came from a poor family that couldn’t financially support his intellectual pursuit. Not knowing what to do, he turned to UVU for help and guidance. His first stop was at his dean’s office.
“I really wanted to finish my studies so I went to the dean’s office to get some help,” Kim said. “I was surprised by the dean’s response at the time. He invited me into his office and carefully listened to my problems.”
After Kim had explained all of his struggles, the dean told Kim that a department grant could support him once a year. It was more than Kim expected; he was elated. Then the dean took it one step further and called the International Office, who connected Kim to off-campus internships, private scholarships and other resources.
In 2005, after innumerable nights of studying and years of dedication, Kim graduated with a bachelor’s degree in technology management. Now, in 2008, he is the owner of his own small business, Discount Auto Repair.
“I learned lots of hands-on skills from experienced professors in my department,” Kim said. “The experiences and encouragement help me to find a way to study, work and live here. One of my best decisions was to study at UVU.”