– G: Diversity has been a part of me since youth. I’ve traveled to a variety of different countries and have always enjoyed learning about new cultures. Growing up and learning two languages has given me a different perspective and a broader outlook on life. Last Summer I was able to study abroad in Seoul, South Korea at Yonsei University where I immersed myself in a very unfamiliar culture. I had taken 2 semesters of Korean by that point but still did not feel comfortable at all with the language. The experience, however, was eye-opening and very exciting. Getting out of my comfort zone of being able to communicate freely wherever I went was definitely scary and overwhelming, but it was an experience I truly appreciate. I do plan on connecting my career path with my interest in South and North Korean relations, so this study abroad experience was a stepping stone to reach my goal.
– O: For now I have decided to not conduct research at OSU because I do not feel as though it is and experience for me, but I will be performing a dance at the East Asian Language Festival toward the end of April, an experience I haven’t had here at OSU yet. Knowing that I have to perform in front of people makes me extremely nervous, but I am glad I’ve decided to get out of my comfort zone. I’ve met more diverse people through this endeavor, and definitely found something that I enjoy and that I will definitely continue through the rest of my time here.
– A: I am very committed to three extra-curriculars right now on campus: Society for Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE), North Korea Future Research Organization (NKFR), and Residence Hall Advisory Council (RHAC). I have had great experiences through all 3 organizations, having been part of SHPE’s outreach committee this year to inspire middle school and high school minority students to spark interests in STEM fields through our outreach events, have discussions and professor events through NKFR to share ideas and opinions with students that are interested in topics concerning North Korea, and help on campus organizations and residence halls with funding for their events through RHAC’s finance committee. All 3 organizations have been very important to me this year, and I will be joining them next year, as well.
– L: I was part of SHPE’s outreach committee and was able to create an assembly line activity for middle and high school students through SHPE’s STEM Challenge. Next year I will be SHPE’s Sponsorship Chair to connect with company representatives to come visit our SHPE chapter and create events that will benefit the future careers of our members. Next year I will also be NKFR’s Treasurer and as a member of its e-board, I will also assist in organizing our events for next year and grow our organization to have more members. I will also continue being part of RHAC’s finance committee next year because of how fulfilling it was to help fund campus events.
– S: Volunteering has also been very important to me through my student organizations, having volunteered in outreach through SHPE and being a volunteer at the engineering event called Make-a-thon. I also volunteered in NKFR’s movie nights and Naengmyun night to spread more knowledge of North and South Korean culture to possibly spark different interests in other students to research topics concerning East Asia.