Perfectly Imperfect
MIN JI CHOI
My name is Min Ji Choi, and I am a South Korean girl born in Guatemala. I lived my early childhood in the United States, Illinois, Chicago, and Guatemala. I attended Christian Academy of Guatemala (CAG) for thirteen years, and it has strongly impacted my life academically and spiritually molding me into who I am today.
"Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and He will establish your plans."
Proverbs 16:3
MISSION STATEMENT:
To live a life that is both meaningful and good that helps me understand God, others, and myself
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Living a meaningful and good life is a hard journey that takes time, effort, and dedication. It starts with understanding oneself and others, which can be achieved through empathy, self-reflection, and open-mindedness. Mainly through service projects, I truly believe that “understanding” is crucial. One can have everything in the world, but feeling alone and thinking nobody understands you is a different feeling and topic. Consequently, I wish that through my passion and ability, I can become someone that people can trust and know can understand in them.
VISION STATEMENT:
Become a better version, and be a good model to others
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As a person who has experienced multiculturalism, I want to continue to expand my knowledge and be someone who can understand the many perspectives that exist today, writing and voicing opinions about the world and the people that live in it. In the near future, after graduating from high school, I wish to major in media and communication, where I can learn to be more ethical, committed to diversity and inclusivity, embrace technology for the public good, and encourage critical thinking about media from all backgrounds. It has been my dream since childhood to be the one on TV reporting current events and writing riveting stories behind the scenes that can impact the way people think and tell, so I hope to one day be one of the communicators and thus become one of the people that can change the world for the better.
SERVICE
"In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven."
Matthew 5:16
Reconstructing & Educating
Advertising
In 2020, I went to South Korea, where I got the chance to help my mom's friend's little business by modeling for a product that they were advertising. They needed someone to model leather bucket hats that they planned to release during the fall season, and therefore, I volunteered to help out despite the virus- risk.
During my junior year, I had the opportunity to serve at Iglesia Evangelica Bethlehem Centroamericana. At the church, I got the opportunity to play various activities, with the children, such as soccer and duck-duck-goose. I also was able to teach the children about the Bible by performing some skits and singing worship songs. Through this experience, I was able to find joy by seeing the smiles on the children. In addition, I was also able to help the church by painting the walls and cementing a floor. Through this service project, I was able to, once again, remember the importance of serving others.
Cooperation & Adaptation
In 2022 and 2023, I had the chance to pack food at Youth Access as part of the CRI food program. I helped save and change lives by providing emergency food assistance, improving nutrition, and building resilience. Despite being the only Asian on the team, I quickly adapted and learned how to excel in my role. The experience inspired me to seek out other programs where I could make a positive impact.
Constructing & Painting
In 2021, I traveled to Santa María de Jesus, Sacatepequez in Guatemala during the pandemic. My goal was to assist villagers who were experiencing financial difficulties by painting and constructing houses for them. The experience taught me the importance of helping one another during challenging times.
Teaching & Flexibility
In 2021, due to COVID-19, I had fewer service projects available. So, I decided to volunteer online at BrookEdge Academy - a non-profit organization. For two years, I served as a Korean and English tutor, homework supporter, translator, blog editor, artist, and infographic designer. Working with people in different time zones meant being flexible and organized with my schedule to make volunteering comfortable for everyone involved. My dedication led me to receive the Volunteer of the Year Award (2022) from BrookEdge Academy for delivering stable excellence and receiving multiple nominations.
Discipline & Attention to Detail
I was inducted into CHS during my sophomore year. Since then, I have participated in many service projects across Guatemala, such as Mrs. Cojon's Children's Home and Patzun Chuchuca. Each time I serve, it gives me joy the fact that I can spread God's kindness and gospel. In 2022-2023, I had the privilege of becoming a historian. Through this position, I gained a greater appreciation for members' efforts to positively impact those who need help and joy in their lives. In the blog section, one can read a few writings I wrote based on the service project and program held by CHS.
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