Sung-Ju Kim grew up in an immigrant household in a rural area—so he understands barriers to equitable care better than most. “I have seen first-hand the barriers people face in obtaining oral health care,” he explained. And as such, “as I pursue my journey into becoming a dentist, I am putting a large focus in my studies on learning ways to reduce these barriers.” Because of his experience and because of his passion for reducing barriers to oral health care and treatment, Kim has made outreach and public health a part of his studies at the University of Minnesota.
“Reducing barriers to equitable health care is important to me, because I want to use dentistry as a way to help individuals gain access to oral health, no matter their socioeconomic or sociocultural background,” he explained. That’s why Kim is focusing on public health and professional development opportunities that explore the reduction of inequity.
Kim is glad he’s doing this work at the University of Minnesota, where his passion for people and his excellence in care are matched by those around him. It started with his first experience with faculty members during his dental school interviews. “Faculty were genuinely interested in me and the journey of how I got to this point,” he recalled. “They didn’t look at me like I was another number: they looked at me like an individual.” That’s when he knew that the School of Dentistry was the right place for him to “thrive and pursue my goal of becoming a dentist.”
Since arriving on campus, that passion for people has only grown. Kim loves his faculty and colleagues. “The faculty and staff are so kind and helpful,” he said. “They really want you to succeed, and they put in a great deal of effort in making sure you become a competent dentist.” He also spoke gratefully of his classmates, who he says are “one of a kind,” and the support he receives from upperclassmen. “This creates a positive environment where students can succeed.”
Kim has been able to succeed well in his time at the school so far, serving as his class’s vice president, what he calls one of his most important roles. And it all comes back to his care for the people around him.
“My classmates have big hearts, which make me want to do my best in supporting them in their journey in becoming dental practitioners.”
INVOLVEMENT
Member, American Student Dental Association
Member, Delta Sigma Dental
Member, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Club
Vice President, DDS Class of 2025
HOMETOWN
Sheldon, IA