We recently connected with Hyeongrin Ryu and have shared our conversation below.
Hyeongrin , we’re thrilled to have you sharing your thoughts and lessons with our community. So, for folks who are at a stage in their life or career where they are trying to be more resilient, can you share where you get your resilience from?
Looking back on my life, I believe my resilience has grown through the support of my parents and family. I began studying both voice and piano at the age of six. Even from a young age, when I faced small competitions and challenges, my parents always supported and encouraged me—regardless of whether I failed or didn’t achieve the best results.
I also feel that I’ve learned a lot from watching my mother. No matter what she was doing or planning, she never gave up. She always put in her best effort and followed through to the end. Growing up watching her, she became a role model for me. To this day, she continues to be one of my greatest sources of support and encouragement in life.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
My name is Jennifer, Hyeongrin Ryu, and I am a collaborative pianist currently based in Boston. I currently serve as a faculty member at Saint Anselm College in New Hampshire, where I teach piano and provide vocal coaching. Additionally, I work as a staff pianist at the New England Conservatory, Boston Conservatory at Berklee, and Belmont High School. I also hold the position of Senior Associate Pianist with the National Children’s Chorus and serve as Music Director at First United Presbyterian Church in Cambridge.
I came to the U.S. in 2015 to pursue a master’s degree in piano performance at the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music (CCM), and later earned both my master’s and doctoral degrees in collaborative piano from Boston University. Since then, I’ve been actively building a career as both a performer and educator, collaborating with a wide range of institutions and artists.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Three qualities that have had a significant impact on my journey are perseverance, diverse work experiences outside of school, and meaningful relationships with others.
When I first planned to study abroad from Korea for my master’s degree, I had to overcome several challenges—earning competitive English test scores, securing scholarships, and preparing for doctoral studies. Throughout this process, and later during my doctoral program, I encountered many exams, projects, and moments of uncertainty. Yet, even when things took longer than expected, I never gave up. I kept striving and waiting patiently, committed to my goals.
In addition to my academic work, I actively pursued part-time jobs related to my field outside of school. These experiences helped me better understand what I was truly good at, what I enjoyed, and what made me competitive in the real world. The hands-on experience I gained became the foundation for building my current career.
Finally, I believe that cultivating strong relationships with colleagues and the people around me is essential. Through meaningful conversations and shared experiences with good people, I’ve not only learned more but also found opportunities to grow professionally. I’ve realized that personal success isn’t just about individual achievement—it’s also about supporting each other and growing together. A spirit of collaboration and mutual encouragement has helped me lead a more fulfilling and balanced life.
Alright so to wrap up, who deserves credit for helping you overcome challenges or build some of the essential skills you’ve needed?
When I look back on my life, I realize how fortunate I’ve been to have so many supportive and encouraging people around me, including my family. Among them, my boyfriend has been by my side throughout every step — from my master’s studies to my doctoral journey, and now as I navigate my professional career.
He has always stood beside me, cheering me on like a true friend. When I became complacent or unmotivated, he wasn’t afraid to give me honest feedback. When I was too afraid to take on new challenges, he gave me the courage and encouragement I needed to move forward. He also helped me in very practical ways — reviewing my application materials, working on essays with me, and even serving as a study partner to prepare for interviews.
Having someone with whom I can share my goals, support each other, and grow together is truly a blessing. It feels like we’re moving forward together, not just individually, but side by side.
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