Building Business Skills for Impact

For Joy Kim, education has always been more than a profession; it’s a platform for impact. After more than 17 years as a mathematics educator at the high school level, Joy had already built a career rooted in service, leadership and advocacy. But she knew that to expand her influence—especially within nonprofit and education systems—she needed a new set of tools.

That realization led her to our business administration certificate, a set of courses designed to equip professionals with practical, real-world business skills. What followed was not just a career shift, but a transformation in how Joy approaches leadership, strategy and community impact.

“I was upskilling and transitioning into a business sector,” she explains of her decision to start our certificate. “I hoped to achieve several goals: build business fundamentals, transition into management roles and then use them in real-world applications.”

While there are many certificate programs offered locally, I wanted to be part of a competitive business environment. I also wanted to learn alongside a diverse group of professional leaders to expand my perspective and build valuable connections.

A Career Built on Purpose

Before starting our certificate, Joy had made a meaningful mark in education. She spent nearly two decades teaching mathematics while also leading STEM initiatives—including robotics competitions—designed to uplift underrepresented students.

Her work extended beyond the classroom. From coordinating large-scale STEM programs such as the LAUSD-USC STEM Summer Camp to serving on school governance councils, Joy consistently operated within the realms of management and community impact. It’s what drives her in her current role as an education consultant, focused on “supporting youth organizations and offering scholarships to ensure that under-represented populations are seen, heard and empowered.

“I enjoy blending advocacy for education and business and continue to bring this combination to all of my work,” Joy continues. “I’m interested in leadership and organizational development in the education space and nonprofit organizations. Successful initiatives start with an idea and are supported by a strategic roadmap with data-driven decisions, coupled with reflection and refinement within budget.”

To lead at a higher level, she needed to think like a business leader. Joy’s search for the right certificate was intentional. She wasn’t just looking for convenience; she was looking for credibility and challenge to successfully upskill and move into the business sector.

“I researched for a rigorous online certificate program that was from a research-based university that also had a professional education reputation,” she says. “I’m in Southern California, so classes being held online was an absolute must.”

The certificate’s fully online format made it possible to continue working while studying, but it was the academic rigor and collaborative environment that ultimately set our program apart.

“While there are many certificate programs offered locally, I wanted to be part of a competitive business environment,” Joy says. “I also wanted to learn alongside a diverse group of professional leaders to expand my perspective and build valuable connections.”

I archived my assignments and have already referred to them numerous times for my work.

A Learning Experience Rooted in Real-World Application

From the start, Joy found the certificate both challenging and deeply rewarding.

“I had a really positive experience with the rigorous curriculum,” Joy enthuses. “The instructors were welcoming, innovative and genuinely seemed to care about our success.”

The online classroom experience extended beyond lectures. Through discussions, assignments and real-time analysis of current events, Joy was able to directly connect coursework to real-world scenarios.

“One highlight was when the instructor would ask us to read current events of a business topic and weekly share them in class,” she recalls. “This invited us to have dialogue and opportunities to tie our readings, assignments and our professional work with the news.”

The collaborative nature of the program also stood out.

“The interaction with my fellow students made the classes robust, collaborative and insightful,” Joy describes. “I had a great experience, especially during the virtual meetings. These emulated M.B.A.-style curriculum and collaborative assignments.”

While completing the certificate, Joy was also working full-time as director of operations for nonprofit social entrepreneurship incubator The Dragon Kim Foundation serving high school students.

“I oversaw day-to-day operations, including administrative systems, office management, and implemented internal systems and workflows to increase efficiency and accountability,” Joy says. “I archived my assignments and have already referred to them numerous times for my work.”

At the same time, she was managing significant personal responsibilities.

“Since the passing of my mother in 2020, I assumed the role of managing the family’s financial portfolio, ensuring bills and saving goals were consistently met.”

The flexibility of the certificate made it possible to succeed across all these areas.

I learned how to analyze business problems to present to the Board of Directors, make data-driven decisions and manage teams with confidence.

Immediate Impact on Leadership and Decision-Making

One of the most powerful aspects of Joy’s experience was how quickly she could apply what she learned.

“UC Berkeley Extension’s classes teach practical, real-world lessons in leadership, strategic thinking and effective communication,” she says. “I learned how to analyze business problems to present to the Board of Directors, make data-driven decisions and manage teams with confidence. It also emphasizes adaptability and collaboration, preparing me to navigate challenges as a leader in the nonprofit world.”

Even specific coursework had a direct impact.

“In particular, in the Organization and Management course, I read case studies on motivating staff and immediately implemented ideas to optimize their potential and collective efforts.

“Overall,” Joy continues, “studying business administration has helped me develop a strong foundation for long-term career growth.”

A Personal Journey Rooted in Family and Community

For Joy, earning the certificate was about more than career advancement; it was deeply personal.

“As my father is aging, the management of assets and expenses have been transferred to me and my siblings,” she shares.

The knowledge she gained gave her the ability to support her family with confidence and care. “One way to extend his quality of life is the peace of mind that bills are being paid on time, investments are wisely managed so that he can enjoy watching sports on TV and spending quality family time. It allowed me to be present and available for both my 99-year-old father and my father-in-law who is undergoing major health issues.”

At the same time, she continues to give back through her work with nonprofit organizations.

“This coursework gave me the tools to support small businesses in our community to make sound decisions.”

And perhaps most importantly, the program gave her the flexibility to be present for the people who matter most.

For those considering the program, Joy emphasizes intention, engagement and curiosity.

“My main advice is to set aside dedicated time to complete the courses. It can be a juggling act to work full time and be a student,” she says.

Joy also encourages active participation. “The colleagues in all the virtual courses have so much experience and knowledge. These skill sets are invaluable in all industry sectors.”

And finally, she highlights the importance of applying what you learn. “Be curious on how to apply what you learn to your personal and professional life, and implement accordingly.”

This coursework gave me the tools to support small businesses in our community to make sound decisions.

Looking Ahead: Leadership With Purpose

Joy’s vision for the future is clear and grounded in impact.

“You can find me in executive roles at a nonprofit organization where I can be creative and help solve pressing issues, advancing educational opportunities and the well-being of the local community.”

She also plans to continue serving her community at the highest level. “I will continuously serve on various boards in strategic decision-making on accessible higher learning.”

And true to her roots as an educator, she’s committed to mentoring the next generation. “I would like to continue to volunteer my time and talents to mentor youth on financial literacy and leadership skills.”