“Dae San Kim’s inspiring journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, passion, and community support. From overcoming early setbacks to achieving remarkable milestones in chess, academics, leadership, and service, he has shown how dedication and a growth mindset can unlock incredible opportunities. His story reflects the heart of CCL’s mission: developing not just champions on the board, but well-rounded, compassionate leaders ready to make a positive impact in the world.” ~ Jeff Shen, Head of CCL Chess School
Student Spotlight: Dae San Kim
Today, CCL is proud to celebrate the extraordinary journey of Dae San Kim, our 30th program graduate, whose remarkable achievements both on and off the chessboard have inspired us all. This fall, he will join the Stanford University Class of 2029.
Dae San’s love for chess began in kindergarten, sparked by his father and brother. Like many young players, he faced early setbacks; he recalls going 0/5 in his second tournament and wondering if he should ever play again. But instead of giving up, Dae San persevered, steadily improving and eventually joining CCL eight years ago. Through hard work, resilience, and the guidance of our amazing coaches GM Vlatko Bogdanovski and IM Atanas Kizov, he achieved his childhood goal of surpassing a 2000 Elo rating. Along the way, he captured the Ohio K-3 Championship, won five Ohio Grade Level Championships, the U2100 section of the Ohio Chess Congress, and earned many other top finishes. In high school, he also gave back by founding an after-school chess program for a low-income school in Cleveland.
Beyond the 64 squares, Dae San’s accomplishments are equally remarkable. At school, his leadership and initiative shine through his roles as co-editor-in-chief of the school newspaper, captain of Science Olympiad and math competition teams, NHS president, and co-president of the Asian-American Society.
Dae San completed four NASA internships, participated in environmental policy research, and even launched a climate tech start-up through the NASA SEES program, winning national prizes and an invitation to present at the prestigious AGU Bright STaRS conference. His list of service projects is equally inspiring, including tutoring, youth hospital council service, and caring for the homeless in Cleveland.
An accomplished musician, he studied electric guitar since third grade, toured with the School of Rock Headliners house band, played in his school’s jazz orchestra, and formed three rock bands that performed paid gigs around Cleveland.
His academic excellence is further reflected in a 1580 SAT (800 math), National Merit Finalist status, two-time AIME qualifier, and a US Presidential Scholar semifinalist honor.
This past spring, Dae San graduated with the highest GPA in his class and won his school’s top math prize. This fall, Dae San will head to Stanford University, where he hopes to study astrophysics, aerospace or mechanical engineering, computer science, or premed, following in the footsteps of his older brother, also a former Ohio chess champion.
Through it all, Dae San credits chess, his family, and the CCL community for giving him the resilience, confidence, and perspective to thrive. As he shared, “I’m incredibly grateful for the community at CCL and how they have supported me as a person and in becoming a better chess player.”
Dae San, your story reminds all of us of the power of perseverance, curiosity, and service. We could not be prouder of you, and we wish you the very best of luck as you embark on this exciting new chapter at Stanford and beyond. Keep reaching for the stars. We know you will continue to shine!
With warmest congratulations,
The entire CCL community