1. Hello, could you please introduce yourself?

Hello, my name is Eunji Oh. I entered Sungkyunkwan University as a master’s student in 2018 and began my Ph.D. program in 2020, graduating in August 2024. From my master’s to my Ph.D. studies, I have been guided by Professor Kim Young-sang, and I am conducting research in the field of Human Resources within the Management major.

2. We heard that you received the Dean’s Award for Academic Excellence at the 2024 Summer Graduation Ceremony. Could you share your thoughts on receiving this award?

First of all, I feel humbled and a bit embarrassed because I don't feel like I deserve this award. I believe that all of my fellow graduates have dedicated themselves to their research and have done their best, so I consider this award as being received on behalf of everyone. I would also like to express my gratitude to the professors who selected me as the recipient of this award.

3. We heard that you graduated with excellent grades! Could you share your personal tips or strategies for achieving such great results?

Attending all the seminar classes offered by the department was a huge help for me. If you only selectively attend seminars related to your specific research interests, it can narrow your perspective. Especially when the distinctions between subfields are clear, taking a broader range of seminars can enhance your overall understanding of the field from a comprehensive perspective, which is highly beneficial for research. Even subjects that may not seem immediately useful will undoubtedly prove valuable in the future. Plus, it’s a great way to naturally build closer relationships with professors!

4. Is there an activity or moment during your graduate school life that stands out the most?

Within the school, I remember the brown bag seminars held by our department, and outside of school, I particularly recall attending the AOM conference supported by the BK21 program.

The brown bag seminars are regular departmental meetings where our professors invite researchers and professors who are actively conducting research overseas. It’s an opportunity to hear about their ongoing research and engage in Q&A sessions. It was a valuable experience because I could learn the level at which top researchers conduct their work abroad and how they present. Additionally, since there aren’t many opportunities for students and professors to gather together unless it’s a seminar, it was a great chance to connect and check in with one another naturally.

Secondly, as a BK21 supported student, I had the opportunity to receive funding to attend international conferences designated by the department. One memorable experience was attending the AOM conference in Boston during my second year of my master’s program, along with my classmates. Many professors also attended, and we even had a small “Sungkyunkwan Night,” which was a delightful way to connect outside the usual academic setting. The conference also helped me set personal goals, like aiming to write one or two papers a year in preparation for future presentations.

5. Is there a particular course from your graduate studies that stands out to you?

It might sound cliché, but all the courses left a mark on me. The methodology seminars in our department were especially helpful when I was just starting with research methodologies. I didn’t take many courses outside my major, but since methodologies often require self-study, I audited methodology-related courses from other departments. I learned R through courses with Professors Kim Young-sang and Cho Seong-hee from our major, STATA from Professor Park Tae-young in the Department of Consumer Science, and Python from Professor Han Ok-young in the Department of Computer Education.

6. What are your future career plans and goals?

I hope to stay in academia, so I’m working hard to prepare for that path. I am open to opportunities wherever I can contribute, whether in Korea, the U.S., Canada, Europe, or any other region. I’m ready to actively apply to places where my skills and expertise can be of value!

7. Lastly, is there any message you would like to share with your fellow students at the Business School?

I believe that research is a continuous process filled with challenges. Since Sungkyunkwan University is home to professors who conduct top-tier research, I think the learning approach here is not much different from that of high-caliber research institutions in the United States. So, I encourage everyone to stay courageous and keep going, even when tough moments arise! I was able to overcome major slumps thanks to the colleagues and professors I conducted research with. Graduate school can be quite a unique and intense environment, so if you treat your closest colleagues with genuine kindness and understanding, you will be able to get through the toughest times. I’m cheering for each and every one of you!