Sein Kim, Men's Tennis | Hometown: Seoul, Korea | Major: Undergraduate Law

When I look back at my time at Suffolk University, being a part of the men’s tennis team has been one of the most impactful and fulfilling experiences of my college journey. Over the past two years, I have grown both as an athlete and as a person. The lessons I have learned, the friendships I have made, and the memories I have created will stay with me for the rest of my life. 

I joined the team because I was excited to compete and to challenge myself on the court. I wanted to improve my game and be part of something competitive and team-oriented. What I did not expect was how much more I would gain from the experience. Beyond the physical and technical improvements, I found personal growth, community, and a deeper understanding of what it means to be part of something bigger than myself.  

One of the most rewarding parts of my time on the team was the friendships I built with my teammates. I met people who quickly became close friends. We trained together, traveled together, and shared moments of both joy and struggle. Whether it was celebrating a big win or pushing through a tough match, we always had each other’s backs. The connection we shared extended off the court as well. We supported one another in academics, personal challenges, and everyday life. That kind of support made the college experience feel less overwhelming and more meaningful. 

Being a student-athlete also helped me develop important life skills. I became more disciplined, better at managing my time, and more resilient when facing setbacks. Balancing schoolwork and practices taught me how to prioritize, stay organized, and show up even when things felt difficult. I learned the value of commitment, consistency, and accountability. These lessons helped me grow not just as a tennis player but as a more confident and capable person overall. 

A huge part of that growth came from the support and guidance of our coaches. From the beginning, they created an environment that encouraged both performance and personal development. They challenged us to improve our skills and physical fitness, but also reminded us of the importance of attitude, sportsmanship, and team unity. I really appreciated how much they cared about us as individuals. They were always approachable, willing to give advice, and genuinely invested in our success both on and off the court.  

I know coaching a college team takes a lot of behind-the-scenes effort. From organizing matches and practices to managing team dynamics and supporting each player's needs, there is so much that happens that often goes unrecognized. Our coaches went above and beyond, and I am truly grateful for their time, patience, and dedication. They were mentors, motivators, and role models. Their belief in us made a real impact, and I want to thank them for all they did to make our experience as rewarding as it was. 

To my teammates, thank you for making these two years so special. Whether we were on the court or off, we created memories that I will always look back on with a smile. The competitive spirit, the laughter, and the support we shared made this experience unforgettable. I learned something from each of you, and I am proud to have played alongside such a committed and passionate group. 

To future Rams and incoming freshmen, my advice is to enjoy every moment. Time moves faster than you think, and before long you will be looking back just like I am now. Make the most of every practice, every match, and every team gathering. Put in the work, be kind to your teammates, and take pride in representing Suffolk. Wins are important, but the relationships you build and the person you become will be what truly lasts.