<#293 Overseas Internship Experience>


My New Challenge: Internship in America


By Lee Hoo-myoung, Senior, School of Applied Chemical Engineering


 Having a hectic life, I did not know what I wanted to do and there was no big challenge in my life. One day, my favorite professor Kim Nam-kyun said to me, “Challenge yourself and you’ll learn what you want to do.” It impressed me and I really wanted to know what I wanted to do. After that, I took on a lot of challenges like: studying in the Philippines and Australia, volunteering in Nepal, winning quiz contests from SBS and KBS, doing activities like skydiving, paragliding, snorkeling and rock climbing. Even though I did those things, I was always thinking about the next challenge. So, what was my next challenge? I have always dreamed of working in the U.S.A. to brush up on my English skills and I have wanted to experience the American working atmosphere in person. In order to obtain an internship opportunity, I applied for CNU’s Global Internship Program. After the uneasy preparation and interview, I was finally able to work for Mizzou Alumni Association at the University of Missouri.

▲ Lee Hoo-myung with his colleagues at the farewell party
 Thankfully, the people there were very kind to me and my life in America started off well. At first, I'd like to mention my work place. They are responsible for all interactions with alumni once they leave school. They also do extensive marketing campaigns and events to increase membership. At this job, I usually assisted my co-workers with these kinds of events. Working with them was fantastic because I had a lot of opportunities to talk and learned much about American culture and work ethics. One day, I had a chance to interview my co-workers and learn what they did in detail. Through those interviews, I discovered that all were happy with their job, everyone was doing what they wanted to do. I was impressed with that and realized what the most important thing in the future is for me. At first I thought America was nothing but McDonalds, blond-haired girls and fat people. But now I can tell America is the best place for my dreams to come true. On the last day of my internship, I received a book from my supervisor. Beneath it were the words: “The world is like a mirror, you see? Smile, and your friends smile back.” Hopefully, the world would be just like that. When I smile, my friends smile back. I wish for the happiness and health of the people I met in America. “Smile, and your friends smile back.” I appreciate having had the chance to make new friends in America. Lastly, I am sure the people I have met in America and the life I experienced in America will help me on the rest of my journey.

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