Still Earning My Seat at the Table: Lessons from Mentorship, Pressure, and Growth in Real Estate

Still Earning My Seat at the Table

For a long time, I wasn’t able to share this.

A magazine article had been written about me, but due to business dealings and NDAs, it had to remain private. Now that I finally can, I’m sharing it with deep gratitude—not just for the recognition, but for the journey behind it.

Because the truth is, this path was never meant to be easy.

The Reality Behind Growth

In industries like real estate, development, and business, there’s often an assumption that success is linear or polished.

In my experience, it’s been anything but.

Growth came through pressure, high expectations, and moments that required me to step up quickly—or fall behind.

And in many ways, that’s exactly what shaped me.

Mentorship That Demands More

One of the most defining influences in my career has been my mentor, Mr. Hu—a disciplined and highly experienced Korean businessman.

His approach was direct, intense, and rooted in real-world experience.

The lessons didn’t come softly:

• Difficult conversations

• Late-night calls

• High standards with no room for complacency

And looking back, I’m incredibly grateful for that.

Because behind every tough moment was a standard being set.
Behind every challenge was an opportunity to grow.
And behind every push was belief.

What That Experience Builds

That kind of mentorship builds more than skill.

It builds:

• Resilience under pressure

• Strong decision-making instincts

• The ability to navigate high-stakes environments

It forces you to grow into the role you’re stepping into.

Carrying Legacy Forward

To my mentor, I’ll likely always be “kid.”

And to many developers who knew my grandfather, I’m still the young girl who once sat quietly in boardrooms—listening, learning, and observing.

Today, I carry that perspective with me.

Because those early experiences weren’t just moments—they were a foundation.

Still Building

I am a product of strong mentorship, tough conversations, and a family foundation rooted in business, politics, and development.

And still, I see myself as someone who is continuously evolving.

Still learning.
Still building.
Still earning my seat at the table.

Closing Thought

For anyone navigating their own path—especially in demanding industries—growth doesn’t always come in comfortable forms.

Sometimes it comes in pressure, in challenge, and in being held to a higher standard than you thought you were ready for.

And often, that’s exactly what prepares you for what’s next.