There are a lot of ways to spend your summer break. Steven Kim chose to spend this past summer serving as a role model for teens; mentoring them as they adjusted to the pre-college experience. Steven is one of the many assistants who make the Arts & Sciences Pre-College Program possible. The Arts & Sciences Pre-College Program implements engaging academic experiences for middle and high school students, providing them with a taste of college life and the opportunity to explore potential areas of study. The student employees play a vital role in the smooth functioning of these programs. They assist with administrative tasks, coordinate activities, and serve as mentors for the pre-college students. Their firsthand experience and enthusiasm for WashU enrich the programs and provide valuable insights to prospective students.
Name: Steven Kim
Year: Class of 2028
Major: Biology: Neuroscience Track, Economics and Strategy
On-campus job title: Arts & Sciences Pre-College Program Assistant
On-campus job department: Arts & Sciences Pre-College Program
For Steven, he relished having a role with meaningful responsibilities: “As an international student who didn’t attend a pre-college program, I wanted to understand and be part of that experience while helping others navigate what it’s like to live on a college campus. Since most of our students are prospective WashU applicants, they often asked about WashU traditions, what sets the university apart, and what student life is like. By sharing my experiences, I helped them understand what it means to be a WashU student, thereby fostering a stronger connection to the WashU community.”
Being an Arts & Sciences Pre-College Program Assistant also helped Steven crystalize his career aspirations and the skills he needs to achieve them: “It showed me how much I enjoy working in group settings and supporting others. This experience helped me recognize that I want a career where I can collaborate, lead, and positively impact both my team and community. I developed strong leadership skills by leading events and group meetings. Working with other program assistants also improved my communication skills, as effective teamwork was essential for our success.”
Director of Pre-College Programs, Becki Baker, reflects on the impact of student employees and Steven specifically: “Student employees bring a unique perspective and enthusiasm to our work, fostering a dynamic and inclusive environment. Their engagement helps bridge the gap between high school and college, offering relatable advice and mentorship to our pre-college students. Additionally, working with student employees fosters a campus community spirit, promoting collaboration and growth among students and staff alike. Steven has significantly contributed to our department by demonstrating exceptional initiative and leadership. Steven has assisted in organizing events, managed communication between staff and program participants, and provided thoughtful feedback that has helped improve our offerings. Steven’s positivity and reliability have made him a key part of our team, ensuring that our pre-college students have a memorable and educational experience.”
If, like Steven, you’re interested in leveraging your intrinsic understanding of WashU’s campus culture and strong academic background, and have a genuine passion for mentorship, you can learn more about the Pre-College Program Assistant and Supervisor roles here. Please check Handshake for next summer’s open positions (which are typically posted in December).
Written by Sarah Sims, August 5, 2025
