In this blog post, I will refine the original personal statement submitted for admission to the Liberal Arts Department at Kwandong University to summarize key academic experiences, on-campus activities, examples of consideration and cooperation, my motivation for applying, and my plans after enrollment.
Efforts Devoted to Academics and Lessons Learned
Upon entering high school, I deeply reflected on why I should pursue a high school education and what value a university education holds for the future. I concluded that, rather than simply receiving an education out of obligation, it was important to become a well-rounded individual equipped with the fundamental competencies required as a member of a globalized society, and I resolved to study diligently to achieve that goal.
To this end, I focused particularly on courses covering fundamental competencies. I strove to cultivate fundamental academic abilities, such as basic English, critical thinking and expression, and basic mathematical skills, and I consistently took arts and physical education courses to build basic physical fitness, develop an appreciation for music, and improve my conversational skills. I also treated liberal arts subjects—such as environment, health, career guidance, and vocational studies—as essential components of the basic qualities one should possess as a human being.
Through this learning process, I developed the habit of treating every class as important, rather than obsessing over grades. If I had had a specific major in mind, I might have focused my studies on certain subjects, but I recognized the fundamental value of all subjects and strove to ensure I was well-rounded across various fields. I read the newspaper thoroughly every day to keep up with general knowledge, and as a result, I even earned the nickname “King of General Knowledge” in my class. Thanks to my well-balanced academic record, my range of career options was broadened.
Activities in the School’s Christian Club and What I Learned
As a Christian from birth, I attended church from a young age, and in high school, I formed a small group with Christian friends to continue my religious activities. Although I had experience running a group in middle school, small-scale activities within the school were limited in scope and content, which often led to a decline in members’ enthusiasm. As the club leader, I held meetings with members to explore new directions for our activities and address this issue.
First, we moved beyond internal group prayers to plan booth activities that took the form of natural evangelism. Considering that some friends found evangelism daunting, we chose to approach people through music performances and held a street concert at the school gate with friends who played the violin, guitar, and cello. After the performance, we shared a simple message of faith, which served as an opportunity for interested students to join our group.
As our on-campus activities expanded, we also planned off-campus volunteer work, and in December, we conducted a student Salvation Army fundraising drive. By wearing Salvation Army uniforms, carrying collection boxes, and fundraising on the streets while simultaneously holding the music concert we had organized earlier, we were able to attract the attention of even more people. This turned the activity into more than just fundraising; it became an opportunity to highlight the true meaning of service. It was a meaningful experience that allowed us to raise more funds than expected and donate them to the Red Cross.
An Example of Conflict Management Through Consideration and Cooperation
As the club president, I paid close attention to the circumstances of each member. Our club fostered a strong atmosphere of mutual care, and whenever a member faced personal difficulties, we were committed to helping rather than turning a blind eye. I would first ask questions to understand the person’s current situation and then identify ways I could assist.
On one occasion, a friend who served as the study group’s treasurer and managed the budget began missing meetings frequently. When we met privately to talk, she confided in me about her father’s illness and her family’s financial difficulties, explaining that she was falling behind in her studies because she had to care for her father at the hospital and look after her younger sibling every night. After hearing her situation, I informed the study group and we worked together to find ways to help.
We summarized the material from the makeup classes she had missed and compiled and shared the information she needed during exam periods. Her close friends frequently visited the hospital to see her parents and actively helped out whenever nursing care was needed. Although our support was limited to what we could do as students, our cooperation and consideration helped improve her situation and deepened our friendship. She expressed her gratitude, saying that thanks to our help, she was able to do well on her exams.
Motivation for Application and Academic/Career Plans After Enrollment
As a Christian, I resonated with the Catholic spirit of Kangdong University, which led me to decide to apply to the Liberal Arts Department. In particular, I felt that the educational direction of the Liberal Arts Department aligns with my own values regarding academics and education. My dream is to work as an instructor teaching culture and liberal arts within the church in the future.
Once I enter college, I will first strive to acquire foreign language proficiency, such as basic English conversation and elementary Chinese. Since evangelism and volunteer work at church often involve interacting with foreigners, and there are opportunities to teach foreign residents in Korea, I believe foreign language skills are essential. Additionally, I will diligently take courses in interpersonal relationships, communication techniques, everyday law, and everyday economics to develop the ability to appropriately respond to counseling requests from parishioners.
Through liberal arts courses on career paths, professions, and professional ethics, I will acquire the knowledge and practical experience necessary for teaching youth groups. I aim to develop my capabilities as a career counselor so that I can become an instructor capable of effectively leading the church’s youth ministry. Through this, I aspire to grow into a loving evangelist who puts God’s Word and the spirit of charity into practice.
