Roy Kim (25’) shared his inspiring journey to the University of Pennsylvania’s (UPENN) business program, offering insights into his motivations and insight for aspiring students.
Focusing on combining business with innovation, Kim applied early decision to the University of Pennsylvania; its entrepreneurial environment serving as the perfect match for his aspirations.
Dream Behind UPenn
“I found that UPenn had a strong focus on innovation and entrepreneurship. It aligned perfectly with my ultimate goal of creating a company built around technological innovation. It seemed like the best choice for me,” said Kim.
Kim’s acceptance into UPenn marked a significant milestone in his academic journey, filled with excitement and a touch of anxiety in regards to what the future holds.
“At first, it was pure excitement. But then it quickly turned into a mix of anxiety and nervousness. It was a huge milestone, but it also meant I was about to embark on an entirely new chapter of my life,” said Kim.
Setting Himself Apart
What Kim felt set him apart during the admissions process was his clear focus on authenticity and a vision for the future, reflected in the essays and extracurricular activities.
Kim emphasized starting the application early and staying true to himself. His extracurricular activities aligned with what he wanted to do at UPenn, and helped him stand out as a candidate.
“I think it was how my extracurricular activities tied into my vision for the future. I started my essays early, focusing on presenting my authentic self,” said Kim.
UPENN’s entrepreneurial environment excites Roy, as it aligns with his personal and professional goals.
“I’m excited to collaborate with like-minded peers who share a similar drive. The opportunities at Penn—from gaining new perspectives to navigating different industries—are unparalleled.”
When it comes to approaching the admissions process, Kim advises that a crucial part of appealing to your dream school is to block out the noise.
“Don’t compare yourself to others. Focus on being authentic and true to yourself. Start early, whether it’s researching schools or working on your application. That head start made a huge difference for me,” said Kim.
