Student leader/alumni spotlight: Soh Yeun (Elloise) Kim

We chatted with 2016-17 GPSS President, Soh Yeun (Elloise) Kim, to learn more about her favorite HUB and UW memories. We also learned a few other fun facts from our Q&A. Here’s what she shared with us:

What is/was your favorite memory of the HUB?

I love seeing colorful posters of events and lectures on the bulletin boards. It has become my daily ritual. I feel that an exciting buzz comes from every corner of the HUB with such various events and programming. I am grateful to be part of this great community and appreciate the HUB for being a nurturing place for all students.

Who is your hero and why?

There are too many to name only one, but this year it’s Rene Singleton, SAO advisor. My work as the GPSS Secretary would not have been possible without her gentle guidance and insightful advice. She always has provided me heartfelt support and has taught me to be brave, determined and focused. Either for joy or a challenge, I know that she will be there for me. Besides, she is a true advocate for underrepresented and marginalized students. I have great respect for her.

What is your most memorable class you took/are taking at UW?

As a Ph. C., I finished my coursework a while ago. Instead, please let me share about “AES 151: Identities, Cultures, and Power across American Ethnic Groups” that I taught in spring 2014 and winter 2015. I have been lucky to be able to teach many classes at the UW as a graduate student instructor in a few departments, and each class has given me much learning and precious relationships with students. However, once as a TA and another time as an instructor of ENGL 198, a writing course linked to AES 151, I met a diverse group of students. Besides learning the history of power dynamics of different ethnic groups and studying critical racial theories, the class had vibrant conversations about lived experiences of students of color inside and outside campus. I highly value my experience with students in those classes.

What is your favorite Husky game day tradition?

I am still cultivating my passion for a Husky game day, and yet seeing Husky supporters who dress up in lovely purple makes my heart race.

What would you sing at Karaoke night?

I am an excellent audience member. I prefer not to sing in public!