Student
Jerry Kim (Class of 2023)
Jerry Kim (Class of 2023)
- Background
- My professional experience started in a James Beard award-winning restaurant where I learned project management, communication, and excelling in a fast-paced environment.
I studied business administration at the Culinary Institute of America. During this time, I interned at the Four Seasons Vail, CO as an culinary intern. - Why did you decide to apply to KC-CDO?
- During my time at Four Seasons, I came upon drawings for a new hotel development project where an interest in the development and the corporate side was sparked. My mentor at the time was a Cornell graduate and encouraged me on pursuing the MMH degree at Cornell to learn more about the hotel industry. During this time I came across the KC-CDO opportunity where I could also learn more about the general business as well as the East-Asian culture to which my heritage belongs.
- What career goals will KC-CDO help you achieve?
- I had hoped to transition from hospitality operations to the hospitality principal side. The classes and network I was able to establish throughout my time at KC-CDO were able to get me connected to the right people that were able to vouch for my ability and lead me to potential opportunities. I plan on developing more as an investor and eventually developing my hospitality brand across North America and East-Asia.
- Which class did you enjoy the most at both Kyoto and Cornell?
- Negotiation
- How were the classmates at both university?
- Supportive, encouraging, motivating
- Did you have chance to internship during the program?
- I interned at the Peachtree Hotel Group, a hospitality private equity group, where I was able to get a diverse set of experience being on the ownership side for the first time in my career.
- What did you do on your days off?
- I connected with alumni and pursued numerous certificate programs in order to improve my skills in the new career opportunity. I was also active with circle activities in participating in wine practices, competition, dances.
- What have you most enjoyed about being a KC-CDO student?
- The cohorts I have developed relationships with during this program is my most precious memories.
- How did you connect with people and make new friends?
- I started by introducing myself with a smile and looking for areas in which I could connect with the individual whether that was hobbies, career, or anything we were doing at that moment.
- Did you join any extra-curricular events or clubs at both universities? If yes, which ones?
- I was a member of Cuvee, a wine tasting society at Cornell. I had also joined dance circles at both Kyoto & Cornell University.
- Do you have any advice or words of wisdom for future/current KC-CDO students?
- Don't be afraid to talk to people, every single interaction you make during this time is a privilege and an opportunity.
