Nurse Anesthesia DNP Student Yeeji Kim Named University Scholar

Duke School of Nursing’s newest University Scholar, Yeeji Kim, believes in the importance of working to improve the health care system overall as well as supporting the individual patient. Kim was selected to join the prestigious scholarship program this past fall semester. She chose Duke to pursue her Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree because of the School’s comprehensive offerings, going beyond direct patient care to address systemic improvement in healthcare, something she is passionate about.

“I believe that all healthcare professionals have a role in creating an inclusive healthcare environment where every patient is treated with dignity, respect and quality care,” said Kim. “With my MBA and past work experience, I've learned that a systemic approach can serve as an additional avenue for improving patient care.”

Kim entered the Doctor of Nursing Practice in Nurse Anesthesia program this past fall after working for eight years as a critical care nurse in Minnesota. Prior to that, she had immigrated from Korea alone at age 17, went on to graduate nursing school in New York, and subsequently earned a master’s degree in business. “I’ve moved around quite a bit, experiencing different cultures and populations, which has enriched my perspective and adaptability,” she said. Recalling her time in Korea, which has a universal healthcare system, Kim said it’s hard for her to understand the health inequities that exist in a country as advanced as the United States.

“I've seen people suffer from treatable conditions because they can't afford care, and it's difficult for me to accept this reality because I've seen a different one,” Kim said.

Kim was inspired to pursue nursing after volunteering at a nursing home in high school. She visited residents and helped them with crafts and small tasks. She said she enjoyed being with the residents in part because she missed her grandmother.

“My journey into nursing began with a simple question from one of the nursing home residents one day: ‘Are you coming back tomorrow?’ I still remember her facial expression, expecting me to say yes,” Kim said. “This simple question made me realize that my presence and care can truly matter to someone, inspiring me to pursue a career in nursing. I thought, if I could go to bed every night knowing I made a positive difference in someone’s life, that’s a life worth living.”

The University Scholar Award, which funds one year of tuition for graduate and professional students, was created in 1998 by the Office of the Vice-Provost of Interdisciplinary Studies with a gift from Duke University Trustee Emerita Melinda French Gates. The scholarships and program bring together students from Duke’s various undergraduate, graduate, and professional schools for seminars, informal mentoring, retreats and student-led symposia. Awards are offered to students who represent diverse personal and intellectual backgrounds and share an excitement for original research, collaborative thinking and innovative scholarship. 

“This recognition is profoundly meaningful and humbling as I reflect on my journey from an immigrant teenager who struggled with basic homework assignments to someone who has successfully overcome numerous challenges and become part of this vibrant community of scholars,” she said. “It's a reminder of my perseverance and growth, and a motivation to continue growing.”

Her awareness and hope drive her passion for health equity. “As I advance in my career, I want to contribute to a healthcare system where all patients receive the dignity, respect, and quality care they deserve,” she said. “Broadening my horizons through the University Scholars Program and the School of Nursing will help me develop a clearer path where I can make my contribution.”