Samuel Kim, Columbia Business School MBA Class of 2025
Age: 33 years old
Hometown: Junction City, Kansas
Undergraduate Institution and Major: University of Maryland
Pre-MBA Work Experience (role, company, years): US Army – 13 Years
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
When I was approaching my 10-year mark in the Army, I needed to decide if I wanted to continue my career in the Army and retire at 20 years or pivot into a new industry. I felt that I had achieved many of my goals in the military and wanted to transition into finance which was something I was interested in out of high school but didn’t pursue due to the time (2008).
Why did you choose CBS? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
I chose CBS due to its location (heart of finance) and the structure of the core curriculum, which is in the first semester.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2025?
I think one of my contributions to the Class of 2025 is being open and trying to make everyone feel included. I am the VP of Social in the Korea Business Association, VP of Alumni & Perspective Students in the Investment Banking Club, and the Cluster DEI chair. I understand how difficult moving to a new city/country can be and I try my best to be inclusive and vulnerable so that deep relationships can be made.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
This fun fact is pretty well known within my class, but I’m a huge fan of Karaoke (although I’m not a great singer) and a fan of art.
Post-MBA career interests:
Investment Banking
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Talk to as many current students as you can! We remember what it’s like studying and applying to various schools. You want to make sure that the school you are applying for is the right fit for you.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
I think the one thing I would do differently is to take an Excel or PowerPoint class before school started.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
If I could have skipped the GMAT then I totally would have! I think having a strong support system helped to get through it and just having a positive attitude.
What is your initial impression of the CBS students/culture/community?
My initial impression of Columbia Business School was, “Wow, this school is amazing, but…. will I be able to make deep connections with my fellow classmates when the class is so large and we are in the heart of NY?”
The answer, absolutely. Everyone comes to school excited for their new career, and they want friends to enjoy the journey with them. There are so many activities going on that you will be able to find your friend group.
What is one thing you have learned about CBS that has surprised you?
One thing that surprised me about Columbia Business School is the genuine curiosity that each student has for one another. This not only fosters an inclusive environment but also creates an atmosphere where you learn various perspectives and upbringings.
What is one thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
Landing an internship.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I am excited to be done with recruiting and to learn more about my classmates.
