“As an Asian encountering barriers with the French language, I’ve confronted bullying at the school.”
This is the story of Kim YeRok, a student in Class 7Kingston, reflecting on a time of deep sadness, self-doubt, and disappointment during her past years in Canada. However, at The Dewey Schools Tay Ho Tay, this Korean student is now embarking on a vibrant and inspiring journey of transformation at the age of 13.
At the age of 11, YeRok and her family moved to Vietnam. Opting to study at The Dewey Schools to simultaneously develop academic abilities and artistic talents, as well as engage in sports, YeRok found more than she had initially anticipated. She discovered herself living in an environment brimming with love and respect for differences. Here, she could truly be herself and consistently impress others with her bright demeanor. YeRok quickly asserted her talents across various disciplines, such as violin, piano, guitar, dance, swimming, and artistic skating. Particularly with her mother’s support and shared love for ballet and the stage, she gained additional confidence, propelling her forward with her passion.
Ballet, an art form known for its gracefulness and the dancers’ ability to seemingly defy gravity with their leaps and bounds, also demands rigorous training. In 2022, while preparing for the International Ballet competition, YeRok suffered an injury while practicing pointe work with repetitive frequency. Advised by doctors to rest for two weeks, she pressed on through the pain, determined to excel. Ultimately, her perseverance paid off as she clinched a remarkable bronze medal in the competition.
“YeRok may appear delicate, but she possesses a remarkably strong heart. She consistently exerts her utmost effort in both training and life’s challenges. I am delighted to witness her enduring perseverance in pursuing disciplines that demand steadfast dedication, such as ballet and violin. Even in the midst of a snowstorm in Canada, she would still attend ballet school for practice,” YeRok’s mother proudly recounts her daughter’s journey.
Since her serendipitous encounter with ballet at the age of 5 until now, YeRok has embarked on a daily journey of rigorous training, marked by numerous tears, injuries, and moments of wanting to give up. Amidst her challenges, YeRok stands as a shining example of self-discipline, consistently reminding herself to diligently practice every day, maintain a healthy diet to ensure physical fitness, and persistently conquer difficult movements.
“I always remind myself with the phrase ‘오늘의 노력이 내일의 결실 – Today’s efforts are tomorrow’s fruits.’ Today will pass by quickly, so live fully in the present, and you will reap rewards. This mindset helps me stay focused and strive to become better,” YeRok shares about the “mantra” that stems from her courageous heart and positive outlook on life that she always carries within her.
Shining brightly in the arts and boasting an impressive collection of achievements, YeRok harbors a compassionate heart and nurtures a fervent dream of becoming a veterinarian. “Since I was a child, I have been deeply interested in programs about the animal world, especially big cats. I hope that as a veterinarian, I can protect many precious animal species,” YeRok enthusiastically shares about her dream, revealing that to pursue it, she has diligently self-studied and researched scientific knowledge.
From days of living in sadness and self-doubt to shining on stage and conquering dreams, YeRok’s “glow up” (*) journey has inspired friends and teachers alike with her positive attitude, resilience, and determination to maintain self-discipline. Wishing YeRok continued strength and radiance on the path she has chosen, with a courageous, happy heart, and brimming with love.
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(*) As part of the “DESIGN TODAY, GLOW TOMORROW” campaign, the “Glow Up Stories” series will feature authentic stories about personal growth journeys and becoming better versions of themselves every day for our TDSers.
