Ever since I can remember, I’ve been fascinated by how technology shapes our everyday lives and the way we connect with others. My name is Kwanho Kim, and my journey into Human‑Computer Interaction (HCI) and automotive software has been unconventional and deeply personal.
My academic adventure has begun at an alternative education course called Paul Math School, where creativity and self‑driven exploration were the norm. Rather than following the typical academic path, I was encouraged to blend subjects like mathematics, science, humanities, and the arts. This hands‑on approach sparked my passion for solving real‑world problems with technology. At just 13, I passed the high school equivalency exam—a milestone that confirmed my commitment to learning and thinking beyond conventional boundaries. When I turned 16, earned a Computer Science degree and related qualifications, while building a strong foundation in computer engineering through government-run Bachelors’ Degree Examination for Self-Education and Academic Credit Bank Systems. These early experiences instilled in me an unending curiosity and a habit of always asking, “How can technology make our lives better?”
My journey toward a professional career has been profoundly shaped by two pivotal experiences: École 42 and the SEA:ME program. The former provided me with a dynamic, peer‑to‑peer learning environment that replaced traditional lectures with hands‑on problem solving. At École 42 in both Seoul and Wolfsburg, I mastered various programming languages and discovered the importance of designing systems with the user in mind—witnessing firsthand how powerful human‑computer interaction can transform everyday experiences. The latter, the SEA:ME program supported by Volkswagen and located in the heart of Germany’s automotive industry, further broadened my perspective by bridging advanced software development with automotive technology. In SEA:ME, I engaged in projects that tackled challenges such as V2X communication and vehicle–bicycle crash prevention; in one memorable project, I played an active role in developing crash‑preventing solutions and even designed a React‑based interface that significantly improved system usability. Together, these experiences have refined my technical expertise and deepened my commitment to creating intuitive, user‑friendly automotive systems.
During my time at Bosch’s Research Center in Hildesheim, I further explored the intersection of technology and user‑centered design. Working closely with experienced professionals, I contributed to projects aimed at enhancing the user interfaces of safety‑critical automotive systems. I saw that even the most advanced algorithms and hardware are only as effective as the way users interact with them. This reinforced my belief that my future lies at the crossroads of technical innovation and user‑centric design, where thoughtful HCI principles turn complex systems into intuitive, life‑enhancing tools.
An important highlight of my journey was participating in the BCX hackathon hosted by Bosch. In this intense, fast‑paced competition, my team and I tackled a real‑world challenge in automotive safety by developing a real‑time labeling display for vehicle traffic signals designed to assist colorblind drivers. Our innovative solution built on my previous work in crash prevention and interface design, demonstrating the transformative potential of user‑centric design in enhancing road safety. Winning the hackathon not only boosted my confidence but also reinforced the value of creative problem solving under pressure—a lesson I carry with me in every project.
Outside of academia and work, I have a deep passion for music. I've played the piano for over 15 years and recently started learning the guitar. Music has taught me discipline, creativity, and the art of harmonizing diverse elements—including technical aspects and human connection—to create beauty. I often compare composing music to designing technology, as both require a balanced blend of precision and emotion. This artistic sensibility inspires me to develop automotive software that is not only efficient but also engaging and user‑friendly.
Looking ahead, I am eager to advance research in HCI and automotive software. I envision a future where vehicles transform into intelligent, interactive systems that seamlessly integrate into daily life. The potential of autonomous systems and connected vehicles to revolutionize mobility—making travel safer and more enjoyable—inspires me to contribute innovative solutions that enhance interactions among drivers, passengers, and bicyclists. By applying solid HCI principles, I believe we can develop automotive systems that are both reliable and intuitively aligned with human needs.
I am convinced that my diverse background—combining alternative education, international exposure, and a passion for technology and the arts—uniquely prepares me for this interdisciplinary field. Rather than being a computer science student, I want to be a lifelong learner driven by curiosity, creativity, and a genuine desire to make a meaningful impact. I look forward to joining a vibrant academic community where collaboration and innovation are celebrated, refining my ideas and tackling practical challenges to eventually become a leader in HCI and automotive technology research.
Thank you for considering my application. I am enthusiastic about the chance to bring my unique background, passion, and skills to your academic community, and I hope to discuss how my experiences and goals align with the vision of your program.