I would like to express my heartfelt congratulations and a very warm welcome to the newest members of the POSTECH community. I also wish to extend my deep appreciation to the parents for having brought up and fostered these wonderful students with such loving care and support.
Since its foundation in 1986 as the first research-oriented university in Korea, POSTECH has nurtured talented graduates with intelligence, character, ethics and passion, and we believe that many are on their way to become global leaders. As new Postechians, I encourage you all to continue this tradition and learn from professors, staff, your seniors and fellow students during your time here at POSTECH.
Dear new Postechians!
Today is an exciting day as you begin this new adventure as a member of POSTECH. You are here to develop a firm foundation for your future and start on a new path towards your lofty dream. You must be excited to make new friendships and take advantage of the many activities and opportunities that await you.
To be a Postechian is to be a fearless trailblazer who isn’t afraid of going outside of one’s comfort zone. Strive to aim high and pursue your dreams at POSTECH with passion and integrity. Don’t be fearful of making mistakes when you met with challenges over the course of your academic career.
Move forward with courage and confidence. Solidify your foundation and stretch your limits by taking a variety of courses that will further your knowledge and expand your horizon in different fields. I urge you to strengthen your academic competence, develop integrated thinking, and build a habit in fearlessly formulating creative and sometimes crazy ideas.
A new beginning can sometimes be overwhelming, and you may feel unsure of yourselves when confronted by new and challenging tasks. However, you do not have to feel discouraged at the new situations and demands of college life. If you have any questions or difficulties, do not hesitate to see your professors, staff, friends, and seniors for counsel and help. Getting to know your peers and POSTECH community members on an individual level will elevate your experience and provide you with a valuable support network. All of the faculty, staff, researchers, and students here are ready to help you.
With the help of your mentors and peers, I hope you start to build lifelong relationships and gain wisdom and insightful guidance. Your fellow Postechians will challenge you to be motivated and inspired on many different levels. Don’t be afraid to approach them with questions and issues and challenge yourselves with an adventurous mind.
POSTECH offers you a world of opportunities beyond Pohang and Korea. In order to expand your global perspectives, take advantage of various programs that are available at POSTECH, such as taking Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences (HASS) courses, leadership training, and study abroad programs. Excel in your major, but broaden your perspective outside of your study area to build your own ideas and interests. Do not limit yourselves to the classroom or laboratory. Global leaders are expected to have strong interpersonal and communication skills. Make it a goal to network and build relationships with a diverse group of people to gain new perspectives and broaden your worldview.
There is one more thing I would like to emphasize to our new students. POSTECH is in the midst of expanding its entrepreneurship initiatives to incubate and accelerate startups and translate the research results from the laboratory into the marketplace. Based on these unique opportunities, I recommend you taking on innovative research and proactively utilizing these programs to develop yourselves not only as scientists/engineers, but also as entrepreneurs.
At times, you may encounter hardships that seem to be very difficult, or even impossible, in the beginning. However, do not give up. Face seemingly impossible challenges with confidence in yourselves. Consider that setbacks and failures are an invaluable learning opportunity for personal growth and a stepping stone to ultimate success. New POSTECH students, aim high and make the impossible possible!
Finally, take advantage of the volunteering opportunities granted to POSTECH members. As privileged intellectuals, it is our responsibility to work for every corner of our society, and it is POSTECH’s mission to produce future leaders who are well rounded in their intellectual and public service pursuits. I hope you can be Postechians who can ponder the future of the country and humankind beyond your own success and achievements.
My beloved new students!
I hope that you make the best of the opportunities given to you and enrich your college experiences full of curiosity, learning and maturing. In your eyes, I see a bright future for POSTECH. On behalf of our faculty, staff, and all other POSTECH members, I promise that we will do our best to support you in your endeavors towards your high aim.
I would like to conclude my remarks by once again congratulating you all, and I wish you and your family the best of luck and success on your new journey.
Welcome to POSTECH!