Name/Korean name: Julie Krugler Hollek; Han, Yeoul (한여울)

First KAtCH event: 2024 KATCH holiday party at Easy Street Pizza. We are relatively new to Chicago and my first connection to the KATCH community was made at the Samcha Chicago Chuseok party, where I learned more about the group from some folks who are part of both!

Where did you grow up/Where do you live now?
I grew up in Harper Woods, MI just outside of Detroit. I currently live in the North Center neighborhood of Chicago.

Tell us about yourself:
I studied astrophysics at Michigan State University (Go Green!) and then at the University of Texas at Austin. I did a stint in the Bay Area as well, so I am no stranger to moving cross country. Though, with 2 kids in school, we're feeling very settled in Chicago!  In my day job, I am a data scientist / software engineer.

You’ll likely KATCH me doing the following:
Seeking out good coffee, linocut / relief printing, or being involved in the open source scientific computing community.

Why do you enjoy being involved with the KATCH community?
I've met so many incredible people through KATCH, which is really important when you're new to a place. I really enjoy the sense of community and meeting people who share in the unique experience of being a KAD.

Favorite restaurant(s) in Chicagoland:
It's hard to name just one, but Bayan Ko Diner has a special place in my heart, not only because of their shishito sisig, but also because it was the first meal we had after moving to Chicago.

Find me/Social Media:
ig: @_jkru, @jkru.paper
Bluesky: @jkru.bsky.social