Occupation: Associate Account Executive for a biotech—molecular diagnostic assay company for cancer patients
Degree: University of Minnesota, Twin Cities / B.A. in Biology with minor in Business Management
Leadership Position: Philanthropy Coordinator—Responsible for coordinating and executing Gold Rush philanthropic events with Bay Area charities, underlining the Gold Rush's vision on the importance and value of giving back to the community.
Song: I Don't Care by Ed Sheeran and Justin Bieber
Movie: Monster's Inc. and Monster's University
Quote: "No beauty shines brighter than that of a good heart"
Chips: Nachos! So in other words, tortilla chips with lots of toppings—ha!
Ice Cream: Mint Chocolate Chip
How would you describe your style?
My style is very simple, comfortable, and chic! I love to wear solid, neutral colors like whites, blacks, tans, olive greens, etc. To sparkle it up, I absolutely adore yellow gold jewelry. My go-to jewelry includes my small yellow gold hoops, yellow gold bracelets, and my multiple yellow gold dainty rings. My favorite shoes are Birkenstock sandals, and hate to admit it…Crocs!!!
What, in your life, are you most proud of?
I am most proud of moving here to California! As I grew up and lived in Minnesota my whole life, deciding to move to California after college for my full-time job was both scary and exciting. I didn't have any friends or family in the area, so I had to basically start a new chapter of my life from scratch. Although it was a difficult transition at first, moving to California was honestly the best thing that has ever happened to me. Not only did I gain great career experience at the biotech companies I worked for, but I have met some of the most wonderful people along the way that have definitely changed my life for the better! And of course, if I hadn't moved here, I wouldn't have ever had the opportunity (let alone even thought of!) auditioning for the Gold Rush. Being a part of the Gold Rush has made feel inspired, accepted, and confident as all the amazing women are truly my second family. I couldn't be anymore thankful for the experiences the organization has given me thus far, as well as the love and support that everyone on the team continuously provides. The Gold Rush has made California my home away from home!
What's something our fans would be surprised to learn about you?
I was adopted from South Korea when I was five months old. I arrived to Minneapolis, Minnesota from South Korea on September 7th, 1995 where my adoptive family was eagerly awaiting me at the airport! I have an older sister who is also a Korean adoptee, however, we are not biologically related.
What is one goal you'd like to accomplish during your life?
I would love to be able to locate and meet my birth parents sometime in my life. My older sister found hers and flew to South Korea to meet her birth parents a few years ago. She learned so much about her parents and their past life, as well as her siblings/extended family, but most importantly, herself. She had an incredible story (I'll save this for later!) as to how she found her birth parents and what her birth parents had known and didn't know about her adoption, which inspired me to search for mine.
What does it mean to be a Gold Rush Cheerleader?
Being a Gold Rush Cheerleader means being the best version of yourself. Ever since I became a member of the Gold Rush family, I have never felt more confident, loved, supported, and empowered. This organization is unlike anything else—you honestly learn so much about yourself and others while being on this team. My teammates and directors are so inspiring in countless ways, and they challenge me to become not only a better performer, but a better person every day.
Who is YOUR biggest cheerleader?
I have two… and they're my parents! They have been my number one cheerleaders since day one, and I wouldn't have been able to be where I am today if it wasn't for them. I cannot thank them enough for their guidance, support, and inspiration they've provided me throughout my life. Their love is truly unconditional, and although we're over a thousand miles apart, they never fail to make it seem as if they're right here with me no matter what. I love you, Mom and Dad!
