FirstBank believes in ensuring diversity is represented at each level of the organization. In May, we celebrate Asian American Pacific Islander Month (AAPI) by recognizing and celebrating some of FirstBank’s Asian, Asian-American, and Pacific Islander employees.

Today we’re featuring Yoo Jin Han, Project Manager.

Hometown/birthplace: Daegu, South Korea

Years at FirstBank: 8 years

In three to four sentences, describe your experience getting to where you are today.

I originally went to school to be a teacher and found my way to banking by accepting a Teller role prior to FirstBank.. At FirstBank, I worked at the branch for over five years, progressing from a Lead Rep to Assistant Manager, and lastly a Branch Manager. I joined the Technology Team in 2020 as a User Identity Management Technician to support our Infrastructure. Since September of 2021, I’ve been a Project Manager for Software Application Development.

What is your best career advice for the next generation of leaders? What would you tell someone just starting?

Believe in yourself and your abilities – you’re here for a reason. And strive to learn something new each day! Just like how you’d exercise for your physical health, learning is good for your brain’s health.

How has FirstBank’s companywide philosophy of “banking for good” impacted your life and career?

Being part of a workplace whose values align with my own is very important to me, and “Banking for good” fosters a positive, inclusive environment of growth in the right way. Despite challenging circumstances, they will always choose the “right” thing, even if it’s not always the easiest. I’ve been fortunate to forge long-lasting relationships with great mentors and supportive teammates, many of which have continued outside of work. I still meet up with my old branch colleagues for lunch from time to time – I will be forever thankful for those friendships and appreciative of FIrstBank.

Considering May is AAPI Heritage Month, which historical figure/s would you like to meet and why?

This might seem cliché, but I’d love to meet the members of BTS. To the general public, they are a massively successful K-pop boy band with catchy tunes and dance moves, but this seven-member group has made significant impacts in today’s society by partnering with UNICEF to end violence against children, standing up against hate and racism, and advocating for self-love. It’s rare to see a group of young adults with a huge spotlight cast on them originally for something as joyful as music and performance – and ultimately seeing the power they hold to unite individuals from all over the world for a single purpose, to spread love and acceptance.

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