Graduation

After two years, I graduated. I have long dreamed of contributing to the “benefit” of the world, but it was an abstract dream. What kind of benefit? Where and how? I struggled to answer these questions. In fact, I struggled to ask questions that would guide my journey. To find those meaningful questions, I came here, to Columbia University, to New York City.

In classes, professors and classmates were ping-ponging their knowledge and experiences when grappling with global issues. At lunchtime, classrooms were busy with seminars featuring experts from the field. During internships, I commuted to a small office located right in front of the Wall Street Bull, and I also got to return to the UNHQ again, albeit virtually, after a short visit over 10 years ago. I swam in a sea of knowledge and fully immersed myself in my potential.

My inner voice and power became clearer. I met people who are passionate about the world’s pressing issues: climate crisis, racial discrimination, refugee crises, and talking to them solidified my knowledge. I pushed my boundaries to challenge myself; I made presentations at international conferences and found a start-up with like-minded friends. These experiences armed me to always be bold and true to myself. I discovered my voice as a “South Korean feminist development practitioner” and I believe that voice deserves to be heard.

In retrospect, such thoughts gave birth to this account. What kind of society do I want to build? Where and how? While I did not find answers to these questions, my perspectives were refined and deepened. I wanted to unravel the threads of my thoughts, with the hope that expanding, sharing, and polishing them could solidify my role in this world.

For a long time, pursuing dreams felt like a lonely journey. It seemed foolish to wander around for an unknown path instead of following paths that are somewhat comfortable. However, meeting friends sharing similar values and passions, my perspectives changed. Growing with them, I became more assured and confident in my future.

Here I am, standing in front of the world, wondering what I will achieve and how I will grow. It’s an uncertain yet exciting time.