Passionate about finding efficient and effective care pathways for communities in need through applied research, Shua Kim ’23 strives to be a “changemaker and strategist” for “neglected voices.”
Majoring in psychology and politics and international studies, Kim was drawn to research and public health, and sensed a calling to support cognitively declining seniors and their caregivers.
After graduation, Kim began working in a long-term care setting. However, her self-described “wide-eyed, entrepreneurial and creative approach to solving challenges” and her deepening trust in God led this Faculty Award recipient to involvement in a unique study, which culminated in co-authoring a research paper.
A Career Opportunity
Kim encountered Prescribing Virtual Reality (VRx) at a virtual reality (VR) event hosted by the Alzheimer Society of Toronto. Attendees with dementia were provided with VR headsets, which allowed them to revisit locations they had travelled to, attend concerts, see wild animals, and even mountain bike at 360 degrees.
After witnessing it firsthand, Kim believed the program would be a “convenient way for people who can’t ambulate or who are bedridden,” like many at the long-term care home where she works, to “have new and meaningful experiences” and participate in activities.
… I’ve come to admire good researchers who question assumptions, overcome limitations and think beyond conventions. This dedication to uncover truth is deeply aligned with the Christian pursuit of wisdom and justice.
After sharing this idea with organizers, they introduced her to project lead, Dr. Lora Appel of the University Health Network’s OpenLab.
Joining Appel in the lab as a research trainee, Kim discovered VR’s promising therapeutic possibilities for those with dementia and mental health difficulties, as well as the necessity of extensive clinical trials, infrastructure and community level involvement to ensure “designs and implementations remain grounded and practical.”
Kim was entrusted to edit parts of the research paper and eventually invited to work on the discussion section. Here she recorded results and considered the project’s implications and further steps.
The study, completed in partnership with the mental health team at Toronto’s Michael Garron Hospital, introduced the concept of SafeVRwards, assessing the practicality of VR in healthcare and implementation strategies.
Pursuing Knowledge for God
Kim’s experience in the lab co-authoring a paper, refining research protocols, drafting ethics applications and conducting community-based trials helped her identify parts of research that captivated her. Working directly to impact communities she seeks to serve further fuelled her enthusiasm to connect with changemakers and pursue knowledge in healthcare.
“Witnessing the researchers’ altruistic mindsets, driven by genuine desire to address real problems and deliver tangible solutions, made me fall in love with research on innovations and health interventions,” says Kim.
Lessons from professional and academic experiences have deepened Kim’s love for applied science, and reinforced her desire to conduct research with a heart for God.
Christianity and Science
Kim’s undergraduate experience at Redeemer taught her that Christians should pursue science, and doing so has strengthened her faith. She credits Redeemer’s ability to weave ideas from Scripture—like the pursuit of understanding creation, praising God’s awe-inspiring creativity, and discerning callings and gifts—into its curriculum.
“It is wrong to idolize science, but I’ve come to admire good researchers who question assumptions, overcome limitations and think beyond conventions. This dedication to uncover truth is deeply aligned with the Christian pursuit of wisdom and justice.”
… I’m taking things step by step and focusing on obeying God and discerning opportunities.
Kim believes her curiosity, empathy and desire for meaning will be used by God to uplift communities in need through research. She feels purpose when uncovering problems, questioning existing systems and searching for solutions to improve people’s lives.
Obedience to God in Vocation
Kim’s confirmation of her vocation in applied science and research beyond purely theoretical work came largely through extensive prayer.
“My desire to discern my strengths and where I can best contribute has helped me develop the habit of asking for God’s wisdom and listening to and trusting him with everything, including my career.”
Stepping into new experiences, especially those outside her comfort zone, has become an act of obedience.
“I’ve learned the hard way that it is crucial to seek God every step of the way. Now, I’m taking things step by step and focusing on obeying God and discerning opportunities.” With Christ as her “steady compass,” Kim has reshaped her approach to challenges.
“I don’t have everything worked out, but that’s not the point. Each new decision made in obedience affirms that I’m moving in God’s intended direction. That gives me profound peace, and ultimately, that’s what will lead me to the people I am meant to support.”