Thankful to celebrate the milestone of earning their degrees together, Keiser University Melbourne Campus graduates Kyunghee and Michael Clark are building a strong educational foundation as they strive to assist others.

While sharing that she is grateful for the journey that led to her ability to capture images that help guide patient care and medical decisions, Kyunghee, who earned her Associate of Science degree in Diagnostic Medical Sonography (DMS), recalled the experience that motivated her career path.

“As a cancer survivor, I’ve had my share of radiology exams, especially during the intense ‘pre’ and ‘post’ treatment phases. One thing that always fascinated me was ultrasound. I remember lying in dark rooms, watching techs use a small probe to capture images of my body. At the time, I didn’t understand how it worked, but I was captivated. Now that I’m on the other side of the machine, I fully understand the science and skill behind it, and I love it,” said Kyunghee, a Seoul, South Korea native and thyroid cancer survivor.

After first earning her Associate of Science degree in Early Childhood Education in her home city, Kyunghee met Michael in 2003, and the couple relocated to the United States with their daughter, Ashley, in 2009. Kyunghee then enlisted in the U.S. Army as a Private First Class.

“One of the most memorable moments of my military journey was becoming a U.S. citizen after completing basic training in Baltimore, Maryland, in May 2010. That day meant everything to me; it was the beginning of a new chapter in my life, and a dream come true,” recalled Kyunghee, who was promoted to the rank of Sergeant in April 2012. She proudly served the US Army as an Automated Logistics Specialist until 2019, when she began working as a federal employee until relocating to Melbourne, Florida, with Michael in 2022 to pursue her dream of becoming a medical professional.

After accompanying Kyunghee to her introductory visit to learn more about Keiser University’s DMS program, Michael decided to pursue his Master of Science degree in Industrial and Organizational Psychology as part of his goal to support productive leadership. “I’m a people watcher, and I am fascinated by the things people do and how they respond to situations. I know how loud body language is and the importance of emotional intelligence in leadership,” said Michael, a Susanville, California native who served the US Army in Active duty as a SGT E5/Field specializing in Artillery and Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) from 1986-1994, and as a Civil Service Internet Technology Professional, Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) and Senior IT Leader from 1994-2023.

As an online student, Michael said that he was thankful for the university’s digital resources as well as professors who helped encourage and support him while he strived to earn his degree. His technical experience gained in the military was also helpful, he said as he ensured he and Kyunghee could stay on course technologically, while also enjoying the use of translation tools.

Now pursuing his PhD in Industrial and Organizational Psychology from Walden University, Michael encourages others to remain steadfast as they pursue their goals. “When times are tough, take a breath, sleep on it if you have to, look at others that may have no opportunities at all, realize how fortunate you are, and grab it, go for it,” he said.

Kyunghee shares special appreciation for her professor Sheila Kaiser, an instructor in the Diagnostic Medical Sonography program. “I truly wouldn’t have made it through the program without her guidance and support. She is a one-of-a-kind educator, and every graduate I’ve met from the program speaks highly of her,” she said.

In addition, Kyunghee thanks her spouse. “My husband Michael has been my rock throughout this journey,” she said. “He even gave me a sketchbook to help me draw anatomy diagrams and made time to quiz me using the flashcards I created. We shared study sessions, exchanged ideas, and motivated each other on hard days. One of the proudest moments of my life was walking across the stage with my husband, Michael, graduating on the same day. It was the perfect ending to one chapter and the beginning of the next,” she smiled.

Keiser University’s Associate of Science degree in Diagnostic Medical Sonography presents an integration of didactic, laboratory, and clinical experiences.  The program prepares students to function as entry-level diagnostic medical sonographers.  Sonographers are highly skilled professionals qualified to provide patient services using diagnostic techniques under the supervision of a licensed doctor of medicine or osteopathy and assist physicians in gathering data necessary to reach diagnostic decisions.

Keiser University’s Master of Science in Industrial and Organizational Psychology program enables students to contribute to the profession through independent learning, scholarship, and research.

Since 1977, Keiser University has been empowering students like you to achieve their career dreams. As one of Florida’s largest private, non-profit institutions, founded by Dr. Arthur Keiser and Evelyn Keiser, we’re committed to your success with:

  • Over 100 degree programs from associate to doctoral level
  • Recognition as the No. 1 university in the U.S. for Social Mobility by U.S. News & World Report (2023)
  • Proud membership in the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities
  • A legacy of excellence in education spanning more than 45 years

Don’t wait to start building your future. Contact Keiser University today and take the first step toward your dream career. Call Toll-Free: 888-KEISER-9  or Contact a Keiser Campus near you. Schedule your campus tour and learn more about our flexible programs, financial aid options, and career services support.

Michael and Kyunghee Clark in Seoul, South Korea in 2019