We are so excited to announce that our U.S. College Scholar, Taehyeon, has graduated from Baruch College with a degree in Finance! Throughout his time in college, Taehyeon navigated the challenges of a rigorous degree with determination, and we could not be prouder of all he has accomplished.
For this final update, we asked Taehyeon to reflect on his experience studying in the United States and how it has shaped his life, from the lessons he has learned to how much he has grown over the past few years. Congratulations, Taehyeon! We cannot wait to see where this next chapter takes you.
Q&A with Taehyeon
What is something you wish more people understood about young adults who grew up in the Korean social welfare system or transitioned out of children's homes?
I wish people understood that young adults from the Korean social welfare system are incredibly resilient and capable, not defined by their circumstances. We’ve learned early how to navigate uncertainty, adapt to change, and solve problems independently. What people don’t see is the emotional weight—the constant need to prove ourselves, the fear of instability, and the pressure to succeed because we didn’t have the safety others had.
How did KKOOM’s scholarship and support impact your experience? This can be practical, emotional, or both. Please share whatever feels true.
KKOOM’s scholarship was transformative on both practical and emotional levels. Practically, it removed financial stress, allowing me to focus on academics and pursue unpaid or low-paid internships without worrying about survival. That scholarship gave me confidence to navigate challenges I faced as an international student. KKOOM’s support showed me that people care about my success, not just my grades. That acknowledgment transformed how I saw myself.
Looking back at who you were when you first arrived in the U.S. and who you are now, what feels most different about yourself?
When I first arrived, I was uncertain and reactive, adapting to a new environment. Now, I am intentional and self-directed. I’ve learned to recognize my gaps and take action to address them, rather than waiting passively. I’ve developed confidence in my ability to navigate challenges and make deliberate choices about my future. That transformation in mindset and self-confidence feels most different about who I am today.
What challenges did you face during your studies that people around you may not have fully seen or understood? How did you get through them?
The biggest challenge was cultural and emotional—navigating a completely unfamiliar environment as an international student. People saw my achievements, but didn’t see the loneliness and self-doubt. I got through it by focusing on what I could control: my work ethic and mindset. I reminded myself that discomfort meant growth, built a small support circle, and learned to be kind to myself.
What challenges did you face during your studies that people around you may not have fully seen or understood? How did you get through them?
The biggest challenge was cultural and emotional—navigating a completely unfamiliar environment as an international student. People saw my achievements, but didn’t see the loneliness and self-doubt. I got through it by focusing on what I could control: my work ethic and mindset. I reminded myself that discomfort meant growth, built a small support circle, and learned to be kind to myself.
Was there a specific moment when you realized how much you had grown? What happened?
The moment I realized I had grown was when I first arrived at Baruch College and struggled with adapting to American education, language, and culture. I felt lost and questioned whether I belonged. But as time passed, I stopped seeking validation from others and started trusting my own judgment. I made decisions based on what I believed was right for my future, not what others expected.
Was there a class, professor, project, or moment that genuinely changed the way you think? Tell us about it.
My internship at Alma Bank changed how I think about finance. Analyzing real borrowers’ financial statements made me realize finance isn’t abstract, it’s about understanding businesses and managing real risk responsibility.
What did you study, and did your academic path turn out the way you originally expected? How did it evolve?
I studied Finance at Baruch College. My academic path evolved significantly from my initial expectations. I completed my studies with practical experience through an internship in the Credit Department at a financial institution, which solidified my interest in lending and financial operations.
Did you find community during your time in the U.S.? Where did you find a sense of belonging?
Yes, I found community at Metropolitan 한인 연합 교회 (Han In Yeon Hab Church). The church became my home away from home. The people there welcomed me, supported me when I was struggling, and made me feel I belonged. We didn’t just go to church on Sundays we traveled together, shared meals, and celebrated life as a community.
Having people I could lean on made everything easier. When I felt lonely or unsure, the church was there for me. Knowing people genuinely cared about me, gave me strength to keep going. Without that community, my time in America would have been much harder and lonelier.
Studying abroad means navigating a new culture, language, and environment far from home. What did that experience mean to you, and how did it shape your sense of identity?
At first, I struggled adapting to American culture, missing Korea. But over time, I realized American culture suited me better: the directness, independence, and focus on individual growth aligned with how I wanted to live. This doesn’t mean I abandoned my Korean identity; rather, I integrated both. I became someone comfortable with change and uncertainty. Studying abroad taught me that identity isn’t fixed, it evolves. That experience shaped me into someone more confident, adaptable, and open to possibility.
What are you most proud of from your time studying in the United States?
Studying in the U.S. was an extraordinary experience. I am proud of completing my BBA while adapting to a completely new environment. What I’m most proud of is that I actively pursued practical experience such as an internship or networking events. Through that hard work and dedication, I transformed what seemed like an impossible challenge into valuable professional experience.
What are your hopes and plans for the next five years? Where do you see yourself going, personally, professionally, or both?
Professionally, I want to build expertise in finance and lending by working at a financial institution. I’ll develop skills in credit analysis, loan operations, and risk management. Personally, I want to deepen my relationships with the people and communities that have supported me, especially my church. I want to stay connected to Korea while building my life in America. In five years, I see myself as someone who has grown both professionally and personally.
Is there a dream, goal, or vision you carry with you as you step into this next chapter?
My dream is to build a career as a finance expert and eventually start my own business. I want to develop deep knowledge in finance and lending through working at financial institutions. This foundation will prepare me to run my own company in the future with wisdom and experience. I believe that combining professional expertise with entrepreneurial passion will allow me to create meaningful impact.
What advice would you give to a younger student from a children's home or the Korean social welfare system who is just beginning a journey like yours?
I would tell them: God is always with you, so don’t worry. When you pray, he will guide your path. There are many people in this world who want to help you and care for you and are praying for you. Have confidence in yourself and in your future. You are not alone in this journey. Trust that you are supported and believe in God and his works that he’s done already for you.
"KKOOM has been part of my life since I was very young. I remember the Christmas parties, the Seoul trips, and all the moments you created for us. Those memories mean everything to me. KKOOM is no longer just an organization, it's our family."
Is there anything else you would like to share with KKOOM: a message, a memory, or anything on your heart?
KKOOM has been part of my life since I was very young. I remember the Christmas parties, the Seoul trips, and all the moments you created for us. Those memories mean everything to me. KKOOM is no longer just an organization, it’s our family.
As KKOOM approaches 20 years, I want to say thank you for never stopping your work, you believed in students and youth like me. Your dedication supported my life a lot so I will never forget this grace.
My dream is to grow and eventually give back. I want to help other young people the way KKOOM helped me. I will carry this gratitude with me always and live a life of blessing others, as you have blessed me.