Pacifica Stories

Arang Kim was born in the South American country of Chile to Korean parents who raised her to be trilingual in Spanish, Korean, and English. She says that she feels very privileged in her upbringing in regards to education, habits, values, honesty, and humility. Her parents also taught her that being and doing good is the path that God wants, but that in our imperfection as humans, He is also full of grace and forgiveness. Mrs. Kim was raised Catholic, which she says has imparted to her “high standards of morals and values as an individual of service in society.”

“My faith has lifted my spirits when I felt alone, knowing God is watching after me and has greater plans,” says Arang. “It has also instilled in me humility and redemption to God.”

Arang has lived an exciting life full of self discovery, growth, and global learning, living in various cities and countries since the age of 19. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in psychology, and her Masters in fine arts, but has taught Spanish for the past ten years all over the world, including in South Korea, Vietnam, Singapore, and now the United States. Mrs. Kim is grateful for the lessons in perspective, work ethic, and problem solving that she gained while in higher education. Teaching Spanish in so many different countries has given Arang an appreciation for students from all walks of life and their cultural, spiritual, and academic traditions.

This perspective has deepened not only Arang’s academic aspect, but also her compassion. She has developed a broad and profound understanding of teenagers changing through their life and the times, learning where she can be of service and guide in their journey. Mrs. Kim is incredibly excited to be in her first year of teaching at Pacifica. The energy of the school and professionalism of her colleagues that welcomed her onto campus a few weeks ago has set a positive tone for the school year. However, she says that the students are the light of the school that truly makes it shine so bright. Mrs. Kim is looking forward to inspiration and growth while at Pacifica. She hopes for the same growth within her students as well, specifically in learning the balance between their academic and spiritual lives (in addition to achieving a high standard of Spanish learning!).

“I want their journey to be impactful and meaningful in their lives, even if they realize that God has always been with them later on in life,” says Arang. “These are the years where they form their foundational identity and I hope they can build a strong foundation in who they are and what they want to become as valuable members of society.”

In her free time, Arang enjoys meditating and connecting with nature—especially in bodies of water, such as the beach, lakes, and swimming pools.