When we last caught up with Samantha Kim ’11 ’16 in 2017, the MMA enthusiast and recent MBA – Finance grad was stepping into the corporate ring for the first time. Now with a new degree under her belt, the gloves were off.

After graduating from Johnson & Wales with her master’s degree in finance, Samantha soon entered the finance world, starting a career which she says is a dream come true. “The company I currently work for is already my end goal for retirement,” she said. “I have built my career in the banking industry, and I couldn't be happier.”

Over her six years with TD Bank, Samantha has been able to quickly move up the ranks. Starting as a commercial loan advisor she has now worked her way up to being a Quality Assurance Supervisor, just the beginning of the upward trajectory she sees her career going. “I see myself growing within my world and am excited for what the future will bring.” 

Along with keeping busy working a knockout career, Samantha says she still makes time to do what she loves and has even picked up some new hobbies. “I am still very passionate about MMA and training on the same mats from when I was in graduate school,” she said. “I have picked up yoga along the way to stay rooted and grounded, and it definitely fuels my soul.”

Samantha is candid in acknowledging her time at Johnson & Wales and what earning her degree in finance online has helped her achieve.

“My milestone achievements I set out for before I reached the age of 30 have been met,” she explained. “I am a firm believer that college may teach you the traditional textbook materials; however, the relationships you build, how to work with peers, communication techniques, and accountability is what was truly learned through my JWU experience.”

But it wasn’t until an experience a few weeks ago when those “milestone achievements” seemed to really show her the impact it has for so many. Waiting in line at the post office before work one morning, a conversation sparked with an elderly woman waiting behind her. When asked what she does for a living she explained that she works in banking.

“Her eyes got big and wide. With a smile on her face she said, ‘A woman working in banking!’” Samantha explained. “As a Millennial I lose sight that people have fought for my right to choose a career path when they could not back in the day. It's always great to have conversations like these to remind me of those who have stomped the pavement.”

Now, when asked if whether or not she believed in hindsight her JWU experience online was different than what she had hoped for, her answer was a simple one. “If I had to complete it again, I would pick JWU without a doubt for the online format. Many people say online learning is not for everybody, but the resources and tools to help guide you are readily available for everybody. All it takes is determination and responsibility.”

Want to learn more about earning your MBA – Finance with Johnson & Wales University’s College of Online Education? For more information, complete the Request Info form, or call 855-JWU-1881.