Minhyuk Ko

Minhyuk Ko’s sense of civility leads him to build community wherever he goes.

Minhyuk said, “For me, civility means mutual understanding where we create an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and heard. This is important, especially in institutions like Virginia Tech, where we work and live with people from different backgrounds.”

Minhyuk is a Ph.D. candidate in computer science in the College of Engineering. He is a pillar in his field, both academically and socially. Minhyuk is originally from South Korea, and his experience with the immigration process, culture shock, and learning to find community in a new place taught him the power of civility.

He said, “Patience is the most important thing to have in tough conversations, as interacting with people from a different background often brings misunderstanding. My patience comes from my immigration journey, where I realized that patience is needed everywhere, such as the DMV.”

He found his place on campus through his research lab and lab mates, the Asian Pacific Islander Desi Alumni Society, and with the help of a supportive mentor. Now, he helps students from all backgrounds find belonging.

The nominator said, “His willingness to offer respectful feedback and guidance has been instrumental in helping others grow. His ability to engage with people from different backgrounds and provide culturally sensitive advice has made him a trusted figure in the community.”

One way Minhyuk helps students feel involved is by creating group chats to share information about events and emergency alerts. The nominator said that these group chats foster a sense of community among students who might otherwise feel disconnected, noting, “By bringing people together, Minhyuk has fostered a sense of belonging and connectedness, helping individuals stay informed and feel supported.”

Minhyuk’s sense of civility impacts everyone in his life. Every person he meets knows that if they need a friend, he is there for them.

“Whether it’s offering advice or simply listening to someone’s struggles, Minhyuk is always there with a thoughtful and empathetic response,” said the nominator. “He takes into account each person’s unique cultural background, offering feedback that is both respectful and valuable. His ability to understand and respect different perspectives has earned him the trust of his peers, and his efforts continue to have a lasting positive impact on the community.”

Minhyuk frequently connects students with relevant campus resources and invites them to community events. The nominator noted that Minhyuk’s invitations make it easier for students to attend events, as they know there will be a familiar face in the crowd.

“The ripple effect of Minhyuk’s actions has strengthened the bonds within his communities, making them more cohesive and empathetic spaces,” said the nominator.

Minhyuk is currently preparing to defend his Ph.D. dissertation. After graduation, he said, “I hope to find an academic job at a place that is as diverse as Virginia Tech, where I can teach and mentor students who come from all over the world!”

For helping students from all backgrounds know that they belong, Student Affairs is proud to present the Aspire! Award for Practice Civility to Minhyuk Ko.