There are many people that you meet throughout high school. You meet some of your best friends, create bonds with people you look up to, and make relationships you hope to always cherish. One of these notable people is Matthew Kim.
In his free time, he loves listening to music and hanging out with friends. When it comes to sports and extracurriculars, he is very involved. He is on the Boys Varsity Swim Team, participates in Science Olympiad and volunteers for Orchestra. He also is Co-Founder of a Crafts for Cause, a club dedicated to creating gifts for hospital patients, with Abby Houlihan, another senior at LFHS.
“Matthew has always soared above his peers, both academically and socially, but he never hesitates to bring others along with him. Whether he’s helping me with a math concept he learned two years ago or introducing me to his newest friends, he always makes the time,” Houlihan said.
Over the summer, Kim did a research program with CISTAR (Center for Innovative and Strategic Transformation of Alkane Resources) at Northwestern University. He participated in an engineering lab and did research on public health, economics, and climate science for a project. In addition, he also works at Lake Forest Northwestern Medicine Hospital by helping move patients and families to their rooms, as well as refreshing stock and cleaning equipment.
One of Matthews biggest achievements was being a 2024 Science Olympiad State Champion. Working very hard with his partner Emmie Brown, he was able to make it to State. They studied very hard: spending day and night at the library to prepare for the event. They were thrilled when it was announced that they placed in all three events–even earning 1st place in one–and marked it as their greatest achievement in high school.
“Matthew is so brilliant and unbelievably dedicated, but what really defines him is his collaborative spirit and kindness. He makeseveryone around him better and always pushes me to do my best,” Brown said.
Throughout everything in Matthew’s life, he thinks very highly of his grandparents. They immigrated from Korea in the 70s and worked extremely hard to get where they are now. Kim finds himself wanting to work equally as hard and make the best out of his life.
From his achievements to his character, Matthew proves that true leadership comes from kindness and perseverance. He continues to push himself while uplifting everyone around him.
