This blog post explores specific directions and practical strategies for young people aspiring to become socially responsible business leaders, examining how they can grow through academic planning and preparation.
Reasons for Pursuing Higher Education (Why I Chose My Major)
Encouraged by my parents that I could nurture my dreams by learning from the lives of great figures, I read many biographies of notable people from a young age. While there are many great figures, the ones who particularly inspired me were entrepreneurs like Carnegie, Rockefeller, and Bill Gates. I was deeply impressed by how these entrepreneurs, despite facing difficult circumstances, never gave up and grew their companies into global enterprises. Their commitment to fulfilling social responsibilities alongside their success also struck me as truly admirable.
I came to realize that they are called great figures not merely because they succeeded against adversity, but because they fulfilled their social responsibilities. This naturally led me to dream of becoming a business leader embodying that entrepreneurial spirit, and I understood I must study business administration. I believe companies nurtured by outstanding entrepreneurial spirit transcend national competitiveness and become a source of national pride. While there are many reasons for South Koreans to feel pride, I firmly believe the role of global companies like Samsung and Hyundai is undeniable. As my first step toward becoming an outstanding manager who fulfills social responsibilities, I am applying to your university’s Business Administration Department.
Academic Plan and Goals
As this marks the beginning of realizing my dream, I have established three plans to approach it diligently.
First, I will dedicate myself to my studies. Studying hard in my major is a given and requires no further explanation. Beyond my major, I will focus intensely on language studies to become a future talent suited for the global era.
Second, I will seek diverse experiences. I do not believe a great business leader is made solely by business knowledge. Therefore, I plan to read extensively, something I neglected during the admissions process. I believe the indirect experiences and wisdom gained from reading, though unseen, will elevate my business capabilities. I also intend to travel widely to learn about and experience diverse cultures, building resilience by overcoming challenges encountered along the way.
Finally, third, I will engage in extensive volunteer work. I regret not being more active in volunteer activities during my school years. Looking back, volunteer work was likely the first step toward becoming an entrepreneur who fulfills social responsibility, and I feel regret about that. I will use extensive volunteer work as an opportunity to understand the socially vulnerable and marginalized. I believe this will be a valuable time to find and reaffirm my direction as an entrepreneur.
Post-Graduation Plans
After graduation, I plan to join a company. I believe gaining practical experience and understanding the corporate environment comes first. Initially, I considered going straight to graduate school, but I’ve heard that recognizing the need for further education through experience is more beneficial. Therefore, I intend to first immerse myself in the corporate world and pursue graduate studies when I feel the necessity. I will build the academic knowledge required for practical work, preparing to become a manager well-versed in both theory and practice. I will also continue to study various economic theories and economic trends consistently. I believe that if I miss the ever-changing flow of the economy, it will be difficult to respond quickly. Through these efforts, I aspire to become an outstanding manager who can change and lead society.
Self-Introduction (Life Philosophy, Values)
Religion is one of the most important aspects of my life. The belief that everyone, not just myself, should be happy is a lesson I gained from my religious life. However, due to my studies, I haven’t been able to do much volunteer work, and I feel I haven’t fully realized that conviction. I believe people cannot live alone, and that altruism is ultimately the path for oneself. It is the way to create a better society, and I hope to become such a person.
There is a program called “Master of Life.” What I’ve observed is that the common trait among those who become masters on the show is that they approach their given tasks with a sense of calling and perform them with sincerity. I believe people who work with a sense of calling can excel at their tasks more than anyone else. Guided by the belief that not just I, but everyone should be happy, I intend to do my utmost with gratitude for the work itself – work that contributes to the happiness of many people. Thus, I aspire to become an outstanding business leader who brings change and innovation to society.
