Aimee Kim, Ed.M.
FOUNDER & DIRECTOR OF KAI PREP
ACADEMIC ADVISOR AT JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY
MEET AIMEE
I bring over 15 years of experience teaching and advising students—from middle school through college and graduate students. Before founding Kai Prep, I taught math in Baltimore City Public Schools. I also have extensive experience teaching English, including SAT and TOEFL, academic reading and writing for high school and college students, and business English for adult learners.
I am an academic advisor at Johns Hopkins University. I specialize in advising pre-med students—over 70% of my advisees pursue pre-health tracks— but also have extensive experience working with students in all majors.
I’m currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Higher Education Policy at the University of Michigan. My research focuses on college success and how academic support services can help close achievement gaps and improve student outcomes.
I’m trilingual and happy to work with students and families in English, Korean, or Mandarin Chinese. When I’m not working, I enjoy spending time at local parks and events with my husband and our two young daughters.
EDUCATION
UCLA, BA in Economics, Minor in Chinese (2009)
Johns Hopkins University, MS in Educational Studies (Math) (2015)
University of Michigan, MA in Higher Education Policy (2018)
University of Michigan, PhD in Higher Education Policy (In progress)

My Philosophy
I believe that every student deserves more than a one-size-fits-all solution. While I offer test prep services like SAT class, I see that as just one part of a much bigger journey. My approach is deeply personal, highly individualized, and rooted in long-term growth—not just short-term results.
I help students identify their academic and personal interests, set realistic college goals, build extracurricular profiles, and make thoughtful decisions about high school course selection and college application strategy. My guidance extends beyond test scores to focus on helping students discover purpose, plan strategically, and pursue careers that are both meaningful and sustainable.
I don’t believe that attending a top-ranked college is the only marker of success. For some students, it’s a great fit. For others, the right path may look very different—and that’s okay. My mission is to help each student find the best opportunities available to them, based on who they are, where they are, and where they want to go.
At Kai Prep, students work with me from the beginning to the end. I do not hand over students to other teachers or outsource services. Every lesson, every draft, and every meeting is tailored by me personally. This is my responsibility to students and the principle I always adhere to.
Success Stories
Finding Direction, Building a Future
One student came to me with little knowledge of the U.S. college admissions system. They were unsure of what to major in or how to begin. Together, we explored their interests, set realistic goals, find internship experiences, and worked through SAT prep and college essays. They were admitted to the best public university in their state, and today, they’re on the path to becoming a CPA.
Turning Weaknesses into Strategic Strengths
Another student had low SAT scores and struggled academically, but had strong interpersonal skills and unique life experiences. I helped them craft a compelling application by highlighting their adaptability, work ethic, and interest in agricultural economics—an often-overlooked major that aligned well with their background. That student is now thriving at a Top 30 university.
From 1200s to 1500s: A Data-Driven Turnaround
Several of my students have made significant academic progress, including those who started with SAT scores in the low 1200s. Through targeted instruction, regular feedback, and customized strategies, some were able to raise their scores into the 1500s and gain admission to highly competitive schools.
Success Beyond Scores: Admission to the Naval Academy
One student had neither a high GPA nor a standout SAT score, but they were deeply involved in extracurriculars and national competitions. With strategic coaching, essay planning, and careful positioning of their strengths, they were accepted to the U.S. Naval Academy—a testament to the power of thoughtful planning and holistic preparation.