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History Makers

#28 Yejin Lyu’s Academic Journey From SUNY Korea to Columbia SIPA Yejin Lyu, a 2024 graduate of SUNY Korea Stony Brook University with a degree in Business Management, has recently been accepted into Columbia University’s School of International and Public Affairs (SIPA). During her time at SUNY Korea, the globally integrated academic environment provided her with a diverse perspective which opened doors to prestigious internship opportunities at international organizations, including the United Nations. These experiences played a crucial role in shaping her career aspirations and ultimately led to her acceptance at Columbia SIPA. Can you introduce yourself? I am Yejin Lyu and I graduated with a Business Management degree from SUNY Korea Stony Brook University in 2024, with a specialization in Marketing. I joined SUNY Korea in 2020 and took a gap year to work at the United Nations, which profoundly shaped my perspective on global markets and international development. Why did you choose to study at SUNY Korea SBU? I chose to study at SUNY Korea, Stony Brook University, because it offers a globally integrated curriculum while providing valuable opportunities in Korea. The program's structure allows students to spend three years in Korea and one year at Stony Brook University in New York, which enables a seamless blend of both academic and professional experiences. This unique model provides the same prestigious degree as Stony Brook while offering exposure to both Korean and U.S. work environments, equipping me with a well-rounded, global perspective essential for my career. During your university years, did you participate in any internships, competitions, or other activities? How did these experiences contribute to your career growth? During university, I worked as a Teaching Assistant, at the Writing Center, and took on internships. Through the Career Services’ emails, I discovered the World Federation of the United Nations Associations (WFUNA) College Leaders Program, which sparked my interest in international organizations. This led me to take a gap year, during which I found and applied for an internship at United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR), also through the Career Services. That experience confirmed my goal of working in the United Nations, motivating me to pursue graduate studies for deeper knowledge and expertise. Since then, I have gained further field experience at United Nations Industrial Development Organization Investment and Technology Promotion Office (UNIDO ITPO) Korea and United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP), ultimately leading to my acceptance into Johns Hopkins SAIS (University School of Advanced International Studies) and Columbia SIPA (School of International and Public Affairs). What led you to pursue graduate studies at Columbia university, and what are your aspirations for the future? My experience at the UN inspired me to pursue graduate studies at Columbia SIPA in New York City, home to the UN headquarters and major international organizations. SIPA’s hands-on approach, global network, and policy-focused curriculum make it the ideal place to deepen my expertise in International Affairs. I aim to gain practical experience in global policymaking and apply it to real-world challenges. My long-term goal is to work in international organizations, shaping policies that drive sustainable development and global cooperation. What is your most memorable experience at SUNY Korea? Due to COVID-19, I had limited opportunities to participate in school activities during my early years at SUNY Korea. However, my experience at Stony Brook University in New York last year was truly memorable. Immersing myself in a diverse environment, I had the opportunity to interact with people from various backgrounds and cultures. This experience broadened my perspective, deepened my understanding of global dynamics, and reinforced my interest in international affairs. Are there any key lessons or skills from SUNY Korea that have been particularly valuable in your journey? SUNY Korea’s Career Services provided invaluable support by connecting me to external opportunities that shaped my career path. Moreover, classes that required the use of various IT tools enhanced my documentation and organizational skills. Additionally, the mandatory writing courses required for graduation significantly improved my academic writing. These skills were especially beneficial when applying for graduate school, enabling me to articulate my ideas effectively on my own。 What advice would you offer to students pursuing their academic and professional goals? Make the most of the opportunities provided by the university and seek internships to gain valuable field experience. Most importantly, try everything—don’t be afraid to try new things. When I first applied to graduate school in 2024, I hesitated to aim for top programs and held myself back. However, that experience helped me recognize my potential, and in 2025, I challenged myself to apply to highly renowned schools—and was accepted. Trust in your abilities, take risks, and keep pushing forward.
2025.03.19 Hits 2101
#27 Ariel Han, FIT Alumna, Representing Korea on the Miss Universe Stage As Miss Universe Korea 2024, Ariel Han’s journey started at SUNY Korea FIT, where she studied Fashion Business Management before heading to New York to continue her education. Her time at FIT gave her a deep dive into the fashion industry—starting behind the scenes and now owning the spotlight on the runway. Can you introduce yourself? Hi. I am Ariel Han, Miss Universe Korea 2024. I pursued an AAS degree in Fashion Business Management at SUNY Korea FIT in Spring 2023, and I am continuing my studies in New York to further develop my expertise in the global fashion industry. Fashion has always been my passion, and I aim to create a lasting impact by merging sustainability, cultural appreciation, and business innovation. Why did you choose to study at SUNY Korea FIT? I chose SUNY Korea FIT because it provided the perfect bridge between my Korean heritage and my dream of studying in New York, the global hub of fashion. SUNY Korea FIT offered a unique opportunity to gain a world-class education while staying connected to Korea's rapidly evolving fashion industry. The program also emphasized sustainability and business management, aligning perfectly with my long-term goal of becoming an ESG-focused fashion brand CEO. Describe your experience at SUNY Korea FIT. What is your most memorable experience at SUNY Korea? My experience at SUNY Korea FIT was truly transformative. It was not just about academics, but also about hands-on industry experience that shaped my perspective on fashion. Now, as Miss Universe Korea, I’ve had the opportunity to walk in many fashion shows and participate in global runway events. Every time I step onto the stage, I’m reminded of my days at FIT, working backstage as a helper during fashion shows. Those moments—preparing garments, assisting models, and witnessing the behind-the-scenes chaos—taught me the importance of teamwork, precision, and the effort it takes to bring a show to life. Looking back, those experiences were invaluable in shaping my understanding of the industry from both perspectives: behind the scenes and now, in the spotlight. What motivated you to participate in the Miss Universe competition? I have always believed that fashion and social impact go hand in hand, and Miss Universe provides a global platform to amplify my message. Competing in Miss Universe was not just about beauty or performance—it was an opportunity to empower women, promote sustainability, and represent Korea on a global stage. The Miss Universe competition is a global event where representatives from different countries showcase not only their beauty but also their intelligence, confidence, and advocacy work. Contestants participate in interviews, runway walks, national costume presentations, and social impact initiatives. Through this journey, I wanted to showcase the strength of Korean women, share our rich history, and inspire the next generation to embrace their authenticity. How has winning Miss Universe Korea influenced your personal and professional goals? Winning Miss Universe Korea has been a defining moment in my journey. It reinforced my belief that beauty and leadership are not mutually exclusive. They can coexist to create real change. This experience has given me a stronger voice to advocate for sustainability in the fashion industry, women’s empowerment, and cultural appreciation. It has also expanded my network, connecting me with leaders, designers, and changemakers in the global fashion industry, which will be invaluable as I work toward launching my own ESG-conscious fashion brand in the future. What is your next goal in life? My next goal is to continue my studies and career in New York this fall, where I can further develop my expertise in fashion sustainability and business leadership. I plan to gain real-world experience in the fashion industry, collaborating with brands that align with my vision for environmental and social responsibility. Beyond that, I am working on initiatives that promote Korean culture on the global stage—whether through fashion, storytelling, or advocacy. Eventually, I want to build my own brand that prioritizes ESG principles while celebrating cultural heritage. What advice would you offer to students pursuing their academic and professional goals? The most powerful thing you can do is stay true to yourself. Your unique experiences, background, and passions will set you apart. Growth comes from stepping outside of your comfort zone. Whether it's studying abroad, or taking on leadership roles, each experience shapes you. The world is constantly evolving, especially in fields like fashion and business. Keep learning, stay open to new ideas, and be willing to innovate for a better future. Whether through fashion, activism, or leadership, your voice matters. Find a cause you’re passionate about and make an impact in your own way.
2025.02.27 Hits 2763
Meet History Makers #1: Charis Asante-Agyei's Story from Student to Professor Charis Asante-Agyei, one of the first graduates of SUNY Korea and our very first alumnus to become a university professor, now teaches at Lewis & Clark College. During his years at SUNY Korea, Charis distinguished himself not only through academic excellence but also by his commitment to service, including a memorable “Africa Mission 2016” community service trip to Burkina Faso, where he organized a science camp for children. Read the second part of his History Makers interview to see how he continues to build on his story. What is the most valuable lesson you learned at SUNY Korea that has helped you the most in life? Embrace adventure. SUNY Korea offered me numerous opportunities to embrace adventure. A good example of this is when my colleagues and I created the Undergraduate Student Council (USC). It was a great adventure that helped students organize and develop a sense of community. Part of embracing adventure is realizing that we are not alone, and that we can serve others and help them on their own journey. And sometimes, we may even have to create our own adventures. What is your most memorable experience from your time at SUNY Korea? I will forever cherish the Rube Goldberg machine my colleagues and I built for our freshman class. In particular, I remember incorporating physics calculations regarding how a ball would roll through a circular path. That experience continues to guide how I design experiential learning for my students. I have to quickly add that each bite of DD chicken was a great memory too. Do you stay in touch with anyone from SUNY Korea? Yes, I stay in touch with some staff members, and many of my friends who are currently alumni. I formed strong friendships that continue to this day. I believe Professors Joseph Cabuay, Anthony Pennings, Suzana Brown, and Mark Whitaker still teach at SUNY Korea. They nurtured my curiosity and analytical abilities. What is your dream or aspiration for the future? My dream is to develop actionable knowledge to guide sustainable entrepreneurship around the world. What message would you like to give to incoming freshmen at SUNY Korea? SUNY Korea is a great environment to nurture your pioneering spirit. Start something new, make history, and develop your entrepreneurial and global mindset. Embrace the adventure! We are History Makers. We change the world. CLICK HERE to read his first interview CLICK HERE to watch his interview
2024.09.05 Hits 2030
#26 Yena Kwon, FIT Alumna, at Christian Dior Couture Yena Kwon, a Spring 2022 graduate of SUNY Korea's FIT program, has recently secured an exciting position as a Digital Marketing & Media Trainee at Christian Dior Couture, LVMH group in New York City. In this interview, Yena shares her inspiring journey—from studying at one of the top fashion schools to landing her dream role at one of the world’s most iconic luxury brands. Can you introduce yourself? Hi! My name is Yena Kwon, and I am a recent graduate of the Fashion Institute of Technology. I earned my AAS in Fashion Business Management at SUNY Korea and completed my BS in Advertising and Marketing Communications, with minors in Multi-Sensory Branding and Economics, at FIT New York. Why did you choose to study at SUNY Korea FIT? My passion for fashion stems from its ability to reflect people's state of mind and its responsiveness to changes in economic, historical, and environmental conditions. I was always fascinated by how fashion influences personal identity and representation. I believed that SUNY Korea FIT was the best choice for a unique educational experience that combined global perspectives with a strong foundation in Fashion Business Management while allowing me to gain insights into both the Korean and international markets. What made you continue to join your studies at FIT New York? While New York City is often celebrated as a Dream City, I have deepened my curiosity about the professional environment, the business dynamics, and the everyday life in New York. Although uncertainties exist, I was determined to embrace this opportunity to fully explore and challenge myself in ways that might not be possible in the future. I have set my goal to immerse myself in the fast-paced, innovative environment that New York is known for, and to gain a deeper understanding of how to navigate and succeed in such a dynamic city. I believe that this experience will not only challenge me but also significantly contribute to my personal and professional development. Can you tell us where you are working, and how were you able to join? I am currently with Christian Dior Couture as their Trainee in the Digital Marketing and Media team. I am involved in every stage of communication, from planning to the production of campaign materials, and managing editorial content for magazines and news outlets in the North American regions. During my time at FIT, I developed a strong interest in the branding and communication aspects of fashion, which plays a crucial role in establishing and maintaining a brand's identity. As I built up my portfolio in brand marketing, I applied for the Digital Marketing & Media Trainee position at Christian Dior Couture through LinkedIn during my final semester. After successfully navigating a three-stage interview process, I was thrilled to receive an offer to join the team. What is your most memorable experience at SUNY Korea? My most memorable experience is when I studied with friends late at night in the lounge and in the IGC library. I think it was such a special moment that was created from SUNY Korea’s family-like atmosphere. I would never be able to imagine doing the same here in FIT New York. I also really enjoyed working on a fashion film project for my Creative Presentation course when we collaborated with Utah University’s film students. Being heavily involved from planning to execution, it was a meaningful experience for myself as it helped me concretize my passion towards advertising and marketing in fashion. In what ways has SUNY Korea FIT contributed to your career development? Are there specific lessons or skills you learned that have been particularly valuable? SUNY Korea provided me with a unique educational experience with the dual advantage of studying under the FIT curriculum in Korea. It prepared me to understand global fashion trends and branding strategies, which are essential in a dynamic field like fashion marketing. This experience, along with the network and resources provided by SUNY Korea, played a significant role in shaping my career aspirations and equipped me with the skills and confidence needed to secure my position at Christian Dior Couture. I also would like to mention the Career Development Center (CDC) at SUNY Korea which played a pivotal role in my academic and professional success. The CDC provided invaluable guidance and resources that helped me navigate the complexities of career planning and development. Through their internship panels, networking events, and one-on-one career counseling, I gained insights into the industry and honed my skills in areas such as resume building, interview preparation, and job search strategies. What advice would you offer to students pursuing their academic and professional goals? For students who are pursuing their academic and professional goals, I highly recommend utilizing all the support and resources offered by your school! The Career Development Center, for example, was significant in my own career journey, providing invaluable assistance through its extensive network and supportive guidance. Additionally, getting involved in various clubs and school activities was also beneficial. It not only provided opportunities to connect with friends from different majors but also offered valuable experiences and led me to fully explore myself.
2024.08.16 Hits 2322
#25 FIT Interview with PETE Award Winner, Habin Lee Habin Lee, the recent PETE Award winner and FIT graduate, shares her inspiring journey from SUNY Korea FIT to New York. In this interview, she discusses her experiences, inspirations, and vision for the future as a fashion designer and entrepreneur. Habin highlights her dream of studying in New York and launching her innovative athletic wear brand, Ranea, showcasing her dedication and creativity in the industry. Introduce yourself My name is Habin Lee. I am a graduate of FIT Spring 2023. I received an AAS degree in Fashion Design at FIT SUNY Korea and received a BS degree in Technical Design at FIT New York. I am a fashion designer and an entrepreneur, running the athletic wear brand, Ranea, in New York. Can you explain your brand, Ranea? Ranea is a therapeutic athletic wear brand that aims to create garments which prevent injuries and increase comfort. Ranea aims to alleviate the wearer’s physical pain during rehabilitation and remind people of the joy of having an active lifestyle. What is the PETE Prize competition about? PETE Prize is an entrepreneurial competition hosted by DTech from FIT. It is funded by Peter G. Scotese with the initial funding of Edwin Goodman. PETE Prize is awarded to a visionary entrepreneur with an innovative idea. It is an entrepreneurship competition. Anyone with innovative ideas can apply. You can go to the PETE Prize website or the FIT DTech website to apply. Can you explain what you created and the inspiration behind it? I have created a zone-compression top that targets specific muscle groups to provide higher stabilization for agility movements. I was inspired by my injury history. After experiencing sciatica pain for almost a year, I had to adjust my lifestyle and training regime to recover from the injury and prevent it in the future. I wanted a garment that could help me through the unknown process. More specifically, I wanted a garment that could provide core stability while I rebuild muscle mass and strength again. Were there any difficulties throughout the design process? Since I am not a textile expert nor have years of experience in athletic apparel design, I had to experiment a lot. I think believing in my hypothesis until I proved it through a physical prototype was the biggest challenge. However, I was able to receive so much help from the DTech and FIT professors, who guided me through the experimentation. How did you get to know about FIT – New York and how did you apply? I have known of FIT since I was a kid. I think it is a well-known school, especially if you dream of working in the fashion industry. I studied at Hong Kong Polytechnic University before I applied to SUNY Korea. I joined SUNY Korea in 2019 to transfer to FIT. I then continued my studies in New York because I was interested in the diverse and creative culture of the city. New York is also one of the best cities for young entrepreneurs. I expected to gain more opportunities to connect with the NY fashion network through FIT. FIT is well-known for its huge alumni group with reliable board members in the fashion industry. I went to New York right after graduating from the AAS program in 2021. I then graduated from the BS program in NY in Spring 2023. Would you like to share any messages or advice for upcoming SUNY Korea FIT students planning to continue their studies at FIT New York or Milan after earning their AAS degree? Don’t be shy to connect with people. Everything you want to achieve will happen through your connections. Professor Bess, the former Chair of FIT Korea Fashion Design, always emphasized that your career should be pulled up by your community. Any future or career goals you would like to achieve? I would like to successfully launch Ranea in Q3 2024 and run the company for at least five years with the help of the sports community. It is my dream to see people wearing Ranea at the gyms. When Ranea kicks off and settles down, I would like to launch an MTO service for professional athletic teams. My personal goal is to learn woodworking soon. Click Here For More
2024.06.18 Hits 1878
#24 From SUNY Korea to BNL: The Journey of Prince-David Malendele Meet Prince-David Malendele, a 2021 SUNY Korea graduate and current Associate Staff Mechanical Engineer at Brookhaven National Laboratory (BNL). In this interview, he shares his journey from SUNY Korea to BNL, highlighting his research achievements, career aspirations in superconducting materials, and his significant role in the Electron-Ion Collider project. Introduce yourself. My name is Prince-David, and I graduated from SUNY Korea in 2021 with a bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering and a Master’s degree from Stony Brook in 2022 through the accelerated master’s program. I am currently working as an Associate Staff Mechanical Engineer on the Electron-Ion Collider at Brookhaven National Laboratory (BNL). Why did you choose SUNY Korea SBU? I chose SUNY Korea SBU because it has a very good engineering program offering courses in machine design, thermal systems, engineering analysis and robotics that aligned with my interest. Also, I was on a full scholarship that allowed me to get a college degree without taking student loans or worrying about financing my education. What was your greatest accomplishment as a student at SUNY Korea? As a student at SUNY Korea, my greatest accomplishment was giving a poster presentation at the Korean Society of Mechanical Engineering (KSME)’s annual convention in the fall of 2021. The presentation was about a research project I worked on with Professor Changwoon Han on predicting failure in solder joints of Printed Circuit Boards (PCB). A paper regarding that project was later published in the KSME’s journal. All of this was done in Korean. What are your research interests and career goals? I am currently an Associate Engineer (Level 3) at BNL, and my current role is related to the design of superconducting magnets, radio-frequency cavities, and vacuum systems. I aim to become an expert in superconducting materials and systems while moving up the rank at BNL to become a Principal Engineer (Level 10), then hopefully a manager or director. Those positions require at least 15-20 years of engineering experience with significant contributions to the field. Where do you see yourself in the next 5 years? The Electron-Ion Collider is a one-of-a-kind nuclear physics research machine that was approved and funded by the US Department of Energy in 2021 but is expected to be fully built and operational by 2035. In the next 5 years, I will still be working on designing, manufacturing, and testing components or systems for the Electron-Ion Collider. Hopefully, by then I will be a Senior Engineer (Level 7). I am also considering pursuing a PhD in superconducting materials and systems while actively working at BNL. To watch the interview, CLICK HERE
2023.12.15 Hits 2200
#23 FIT Graduate, Haeun Lee, Embarks on Startup Journey with 'GREENEST' On Wednesday, October 25th, Haeun Choi, an FIT Alumni, visited SUNY Korea to deliver a talk as part of the FIT Alumni Talk series. During her presentation, she shared her journey, from her educational background to her current role as the CEO of GREENEST, emphasizing her dedication to sustainable fashion, and offering valuable advice to aspiring students and entrepreneurs. Here is an interview with Haeun Choi. Can you introduce yourself? Hello, my name is Haeun Choi, CEO of Greenest, which is a sustainable fashion brand based in South Korea. I got an AAS degree in FIT Korea, and a BS degree in FIT New York campus, both with Summa Cum Laude. I majored in Fashion Business Management. Why did you choose to study at SUNY Korea FIT? The reason I chose SUNY Korea FIT is because it was the most optimal choice for me, as I wanted to gain experience not only in New York but also in the fashion industry in Korea. In fact, to work in the fashion industry, understanding consumer psychology and staying attuned to market trends is crucial. FIT offers the advantage of obtaining both an AAS degree and a BS degree from different countries, which has been very helpful in my current business pursuits. Can you introduce your business and explain how you started it? GREENEST is a fashion brand that promotes responsible and refined fashion while aiming to make sustainable fashion more widely accessible. We prioritize sustainability throughout the entire process, from sourcing raw materials to production and shipping. The brands' collections are a fusion of expert craftsmanship, attention to detail, and classic and elegant silhouettes, all designed to enhance the natural beauty of every person. GREENEST's commitment to sustainability is at the heart of everything we do. "Sustainability is a top priority for GREENEST in every stage of the process, as evidenced by the strong emphasis on sustainability in the design of all our collections, including the materials used and overall design." I had the opportunity to take courses on sustainability and the fashion industry at both FIT Korea campus and FIT New York campus, and I realized that the negative environmental impact of the fashion industry was more significant than I had initially thought. Wanting to make a positive impact within the fashion industry, I aspired to launch a sustainable fashion brand to help realize this goal. In what ways did your academic experience at SUNY Korea FIT and FIT New York influence your ability to manage your own brand? I majored in Fashion Business Management at FIT. As a result, I gained a comprehensive understanding of the fashion industry, learned about textiles as part of my general education, and acquired knowledge in marketing and merchandising, which are essential for running a fashion brand. In particular, during my studies, I engaged in numerous case studies of fashion companies, providing me with indirect experience of the challenges that fashion companies face and the opportunity to propose solutions through various projects. These indirect experiences have proven to be invaluable in running my current brand. How do you cope with fear and doubt in your professional journey? In reality, running a business is often navigating the unknown, and in the early stages, I was frequently plagued by uncertainty and experienced significant emotional fluctuations. However, once I accepted that these uncertainties are something all entrepreneurs encounter, I began to find my anxiety diminishing. I believe that managing these anxieties is also an integral part of entrepreneurship. Trusting in my choices and persevering in the way I've chosen to go, I have faith that I will eventually reach the goals I aspire to achieve. What advice would you offer to students pursuing their academic and professional goals? I hope that you won't hesitate to pursue what you want, even if you lack experience or knowledge. Whether you have a wealth of experience and knowledge or not, continuously learning and growing is a common journey. If you have passion or desire, I encourage you to take the first step without hesitation. And always remember that by giving your best effort in every moment, you will eventually see the fruits of your labor. So, try to do your best at all times.
2023.11.08 Hits 2279
#22 Chaeeun Lee Wins a Critic Award in the BFA Program Annual Fashion Show Briefly introduce yourself. Hello, my name is Chaeeun Lee and I am from Korea. I graduated from SUNY Korea FIT in May 2019, and after completing the AAS program I transferred to FIT in New York. I majored in Fashion Design and specialized in Knitwear. Why did you decide to study at SUNY Korea FIT? The main reason I started the AAS program at SUNY Korea FIT was because of the language and environment. If I had gone directly to New York, I would have had to spend time adjusting to the language and environment, which might have affected my focus on school. However, at SUNY Korea, I was able to fully concentrate on my schoolwork with the help from the Korean faculty. What made you decide to go to FIT New York Campus? Of course, I learned and experienced a lot at SUNY Korea FIT, but I believed that there were certain things that could only be learned at the New York campus. Firstly, as everyone knows, New York is renowned for its fashion industry, so the range of inspiration that can be seen and felt in both school and daily life is much broader. Additionally, I wanted to meet a more diverse group of students and professors at the New York campus to learn on a wider scale. I wanted to take classes not only with fashion design students but also with students from other majors and expand my opportunities to interact with them. Without hesitation, I applied to FIT's New York Campus. Could you explain the award you received and the Fashion Design BFA Program? In the Fashion Design BFA Program at FIT's New York campus, each year the graduating students' thesis works are evaluated, and one winner is chosen from each specialization class. During the final thesis course, a panel of critics, who have been working closely with us throughout the semester, evaluates our work. These critics are responsible for selecting one winner among us. The winners of the Critic's Award automatically get the opportunity to showcase their designs in a fashion show and have a separate exhibition. This year I was awarded the Critic Award from the knitwear category by the senior design director of knitwear at Coach, Stacey Tester. To briefly explain the Fashion Design BFA Program semester by semester, in the first semester of the third year, students are exposed to all specializations within the fashion design department. This allows us to explore and determine which specialization suits us best. Courses cover sportswear, knitwear, intimate wear, special occasion and children’s wear. This is a time for us to reassess and discover our preferences. Starting from the second semester of the third year, we take specialized courses based on the specialization we have chosen. During this semester, we receive fundamental lessons specific to our chosen specialization. In the first semester of the fourth year, we go deeper into advanced courses related to our specialization and begin to develop our thesis topics and portfolios. Finally, in the last semester, we focus on further developing our thesis, applying everything we have learned throughout the program, and creating our own designs. To view Chaeeun Lee's Workbook, CLICK HERE
2023.06.07 Hits 3552
#21 Interview with Sunghwan Kim, a TS Undergraduate Who Dreams of Going to Graduate School Wondering what you want to do after graduating SUNY Korea? Sunghwan Kim, a senior at Stony Brook, got accepted to Stanford’s Master’s Degree Program and is waiting for opportunities from other universities. Here is his story of his experience in SUNY Korea and how it made an impact on his decision to go to graduate school to pursue his dream in his field. Briefly introduce yourself Hello, my name is Sunghwan Kim. I am a Senior at Stony Brook University’s Engineering & Applied Science Program majoring in Technological Systems Management, minoring in Applied Mathematics & Statistics, and expected to graduate this spring semester. If you have any questions about energy-related research or graduate school application, please feel free to email me: sunghwan.kim@stonybrook.edu Why did you decide to study at SUNY Korea? Ever since I was young, I have been interested in technology and how it affects society. I set out to become a scientist who gives hope to mankind and the nation. So, in the Department of Technology and Society, I wanted to look at how engineering can directly help people through efficiency and optimization in areas such as sustainability. What is your most memorable experience at SUNY Korea? While studying Technology Systems Management at Stony Brook University, I have been able to look at technology and its broader impacts such as developing institutional regulations and policies for various energy technologies with the theme of sustainability. I have been able to apply the lessons from my coursework to several research projects with Professors Mark D. Whitaker, Sira Maliphol, and Neal Dreamson. One of the most memorable experiences while studying at SUNY Korea is my internship experience at Stanford center. I worked as a research support and project consultant intern at the Stanford Center at Incheon Global Campus (SCIGC) Sustainability Department. As the only undergraduate member, I worked hard with many Stanford professors and researchers on projects studying the trends of EV charging technology and business, demand response (DR), reverse DR, renewable energy, and Smart Mobility. As part of the study, I was able to analyze cases of overseas energy companies and schematization of enterprise types and write a research report. Also, I analyzed GS Caltex Electrical P2P Transactions and V2G Services in Jeju Island, which is a new experimental smart city island in South Korea. What is your greatest accomplishment as a student at SUNY Korea? At the World Federation of United Nations Associations, I participated as a team leader in climate action (SDG13) and as a South Korean representative. Since sustainability is a global issue, I also wanted to learn about the multilateral international organizations that address it. I carried out a project focused on the technology transfer of ESS and EV tractors to prevent carbon emissions from Agri-Business farming in Kalimantan, Indonesia. The findings and proposed policies were presented to officials at the UN headquarters in New York. In addition, in my last project, I investigated public interest in energy by region. From this study, we realized what is most important is that we need policies and regulations to support continuous attention and scientific development. Our study won the Best Paper Award at the 14th International Conference on Intelligent Human-Computer Interaction, which will be published in the Springer-Human Computer Interaction booklet. Also, I participated in various programs and competitions on behalf of the university, such as IGC Central Library Learning Spaces Naming Contest and IFEZ Happy Study Room Mentoring Volunteer work. What are your research interests and career goals? In my current research project, I focus on applying energy storage system (ESS) technology to address the production and demand volatility of wind, water, and solar-derived (WWS) energy. Since renewable energy supply highly depends on weather conditions, ESS can stabilize the energy grid by storing WWS energy. And for my future career, I want to be a professor or project consultant who can suggest technological assessments and proper policies for various government organizations and businesses.
2023.03.03 Hits 2141
#20 Why SUNY Korea? Interview with Three Graduates of SUNY Korea Three students who recently graduated from SUNY Korea shared their thoughts about SUNY Korea. Two out the three students started their own business after graduating from SUNY Korea, and one student has been accepted by one of the largest accounting and consulting firm. Here is a short interview with the students about what SUNY Korea means to them. Youngho Kim Youngho Kim graduated in 2022 with a degree in Computer Science. He started his own business named TMR Founders. Why did you choose SUNY Korea? The biggest reason was that I could experience the curriculum of an American university in Korea. When I first decided to enroll, I worried a lot, but SUNY Korea provides the same professional courses that I have experienced in the United States, and the environment gave a familiar international feeling as I was in Korea. Even though I had the chance to go to a university in the States, I felt that I could experience various cultures with the same education here, so I decided to join SUNY Korea. What experiences from SUNY Korea helped you start a business? Students can apply to lab courses starting from their second to third year. In my junior year, I joined the Computer Science professor's research lab and finally got the chance to turn my thoughts into reality. I was able to experience certain technologies for the first time, such as autonomous driving and the recognition of objects through cameras. The professor participated in our research as closely as my tutor, and I was able to write 3 to 4 thesis papers. This experience helped me develop the confidence to create anything, and that's how I decided to start a business. What do you think is the unique strength of SUNY Korea? The phrase ‘minority elite member’ comes to mind. There are many talented professors compared to the number of students. One professor will work on a new project every semester with 5 to 15 researchers. I think it's a big advantage that I can experience new technologies and companies outside of class with the professors. Soomin Seo Soomin Seo is the founder of Livable and graduated from SUNY Korea Department of Technology and Society in 2020 Why did you choose SUNY Korea? I went to a high school abroad, and when I was thinking about going to college, I wanted to continue my foreign academic classes, but at the same time, I wanted to go to Korea because I was abroad for a long time. While I was searching for a university, I chose SUNY Korea after seeing a promotional article that said I could study foreign academic studies in Korea. What experiences from SUNY Korea helped you start a business? I think my study in Technology and Society helped me start my own business. I am currently operating an IT service, and a lot of the knowledge comes from what I learned in this major. One example is cases where I develop services by converging technologies and maintaining communication with developers. In addition, the school provided a lot of support for the start-up after graduation, to the extent that I received help from the president when preparing for my start-up. What do you think is the unique strength of SUNY Korea? All faculty, staff, and team leaders provided various support in different fields. The high faculty-to-student ratio gave more detailed and practical support. Also, I think it could become a strength if students actively participate well in school events as they can achieve more opportunities. Jihun Gwak Ji Hun Gwak majored in Technology and Society and graduated in the year 2022. He has been hired at Deloitte Anjin LLC. Why did you choose SUNY Korea? In addition to communicating in English like any American university, SUNY Korea has linguistic and cultural strengths that cannot be experienced in ordinary high schools or universities in Korea, such as writing essays or having a presentation daily. Of course, these days, native English instructors and English-speaking classes are common, but I think the biggest appeal of SUNY Korea is communicating with professors and colleagues in foreign languages in everyday life. What do you think is the unique strength of SUNY Korea? I think it is to find the meaning of learning rather than getting good grades or achieving a graduation certificate. I remember participating in Professor Neil Dreamson's graduation project and thinking deeply about what I wanted to learn and what I learned from this class. Through that process, I still remember the professor's words: 'Design your own life beyond class with a sense of ownership'. Having a good job and grades are important, but I think it is more important to have the purpose mentioned above.
2023.02.03 Hits 1921
#19 Interview with Seung Won Byun, AMS Graduate Who Went to KPMG Samjong SUNY Korea has a high quality Career Development Center that helps students prepare for their future jobs. SeungWon Byun, an Applied Mathematics and Statistics (AMS) graduate recently graduated from SUNY Korea and has been accepted to KPMG Samjong, said CDC provided most help for getting his current job. Here is the interview of SeungWon Byun. Why did you choose AMS in SUNY Korea? AMS caught my mind because it was where I could learn from pure mathematics, including algebra and graph theory to applied statistics that make use of diverse programs. AMS is not only for basic data analysis but also for the expansion of artificial intelligence. Why did you choose to work at KPMG Samjong? I wanted to do something related to analyzing data as a living. KPMG Samjong is an accounting firm that requires a CPA (Certified Public Accountant) license which SUNY Korea has a program to support, including a study room. I prepared for the exam by taking accounting lectures while studying on campus. What programs in SUNY Korea helped you get your current job? The career lecture I took as a liberal arts course and the programs provided by the Career Development Center helped a lot. During my junior year, I was able to think about and decide what I preferred and what I could do well, by taking the career lecture. Through these processes, I could choose my career, which landed on accounting. After that, through the programs provided by the Career Development Center, I could specify my career path. From writing a self-introduction letter to preparing an interview, they helped me prepare well, step by step. Thanks to those times, I was able to get a job. How has the one year at the New York campus helped you in life? At the New York home campus, I was able to take diverse courses and interact with friends from all over the world. Watching American football with friends is the most memorable experience on campus. Communicating with various foreign friends on or off campus and spending time together broadened my perspective and thoughts of the world. Is there any advice you would like to tell your colleagues at SUNY Korea? It is not necessary to get a job abroad just because you graduated from a university overseas. While preparing for employment myself, I felt that if one decided on their career and is ready by oneself, many prestigious companies will be willing to hire them. Since it is uncommon to interact with foreign students, it would be a big benefit for your employment to be involved in varied activities provided on campus.
2022.11.25 Hits 1150
#18 Interview with JiHyun Baek, a ME Graduate Who Went to Meta JiHyun Baek is a SUNY Korea alumni, who achieved a bachelor and master's degree in Mechanical Engineering. She achieved her Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering in December 2019 at SUNY Korea and her Master of Science degree in May 2021 at Stony Brook University, New York. SUNY Korea is a place where you can study in two different campuses that allows more social interaction and provides an experience of a variety of cultures. Here is the interview of JiHyun Baek. Why did you choose SUNY Korea? I graduated from high school in Korea and transferred to the Department of Mechanical Engineering at the State University of New York, Korea. I came to know the State University of New York in Korea when I had a lot of concerns about how the subjects I was learning could be applied to the industry rather than just theory. I was attracted to the school environment and accreditation program that values individual diversity and inclusion. While learning major subjects such as design, dynamics, and mechanics, most of the classes were realistic and required creativity and thinking skills, rather than simple calculations and memorization. I found the answer to how the knowledge learned in the classroom is applied to society and what can be done with what I have learned. I was convinced that this education would be the foundation for becoming the engineer I want to be. What is your current role at Meta? I currently work on failure analysis of VR/AR devices at Meta (aka Facebook). The reason why I applied for this job at Meta was because I could apply the sciences, mechanics, and mechanical design I learned from school, and take one step closer to my dream of becoming a hardware designer. Why did you choose a job abroad? I did not want to lose the opportunity to work abroad. As I was preparing for a job in the United States, regardless of field, company, or job, if it was related to my major, I tried my best in every part of the process when applying for the job. I went to job search sites in the US, LinkedIn, and the sites of the companies I wanted, looked for job postings, and kept knocking on doors. Then a recruiter saw my profile on LinkedIn, and the current company contacted me first. It was an amazing moment. What programs in SUNY helped you get a job? I took part in school activities such as the student council, clubs, and research projects as much as possible. Through the student council and club activities, I learned various content besides leadership and major studies, and I was able to broaden my academic knowledge through research activities. In particular, the research projects were very helpful in preparing for employment as they were like programs handled by actual companies or projects carried out by the company. What advice do you give to students preparing for college? You should think about after graduation, not the name of the university. I want you to think about ‘how what I learn at university will be used in society and how I can apply what I learn to work’, set future goals, and choose a university and major accordingly.
2022.11.17 Hits 1373