Vanesa Kim, Graduate Student in Global Thought, School of Arts and Sciences
Which program/department are you in?
Masters in Global Thought, GSAS.
What is your primary area of research?
Diplomacy, Public Policy and Global Governance.
Which country (or countries) do you come from?
Argentina, South Korea.
How long have you been in the U.S.?
I arrived in New York City in the fall of 2022.
Tell us about your upbringing and how it relates to your time at Columbia.
I was born in Buenos Aires to South Korean parents who raised me to understand the value of having a cross-cultural outlook. Living in the United States as a student for the first time, I value and recognize my family's immigration story even more. Adapting to a new country and its norms is a challenge but at the same time, it is a humbling experience to have the privilege to pursue my dreams and the opportunity to share my family’s story at Columbia. I am nervous and beyond excited to expand my own perspectives away from the comfort of my roots and be part of the Columbia community.
Is there anything you’d like to share about your interests or projects?
I have always been interested in politics and diplomacy is my biggest passion. Advocating for gender-responsive policies fascinates me, and working for the President of Argentina finalized my decision to fulfill my long-term commitment of ensuring representation and increasing women’s access to digital technologies. Through my time at Columbia, I aim to go beyond the study of domestic-focused policies and gain a global understanding of how women’s inclusion could truly lead to a more thriving, entrepreneurial world.
What do you do in your “free” time?
I’ve been enjoying exploring the city and finding small Buenos Aires-esque cafés around the neighborhood. Most recently, I started training for long-distance runs and preparing for the New York City Marathon.
What do you like best about living here?
There is so much to do in New York City, it’s hard to keep up! I have been enjoying going to art galleries, especially the David Zwirner and Petzel Gallery, and exploring different jazz clubs during the weekend nights. Visiting Alex Katz’s “Gathering” exhibition at the Guggenheim is next on my bucket list!
Are you (or do you know) an international student, scholar, or alumni?
We’re looking to spotlight stories of academic or professional work, leadership, or personal adjustment to life at Columbia and NY in particular and the U.S. in general.
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