As an engineer working in the United States, I'd like to share some recent thoughts and concerns. Although I'm not entirely certain about these reflections, I hope this sharing will be helpful for those considering postgraduate studies in Korea.
Crisis After Achieving Goals
After completing my Ph.D. and settling into a job in the US, I unexpectedly found myself in a state of crisis and confusion. Previously, I always had clear goals: getting into a good university, achieving high grades, obtaining degrees, and finding a job in the US. But once I achieved all of that, I felt lost.
Recognizing Personal Limitations
Working alongside excellent engineers who truly love their work, I began to realize my own limitations. The more I learned, the more I became aware of my constraints. This made me realize that I had always tried to excel at everything without considering what I was truly good at.
Discovering Personal Strengths
I started to recognize that I have a knack for rigorous analysis and a love for mathematics and statistics. When assigned tasks that aligned with these abilities, I found myself more engaged and focused than ever before.
Lessons Learned
- Don't compare yourself to others: Instead, focus on maximizing your own strengths.
- Understand yourself: Identify the skills you can best utilize in your field.
- Choose appropriate work: Don't be afraid to decline tasks that don't align with your strengths.
Advice for Prospective International Students
If you're preparing for postgraduate studies in Korea, take time to understand yourself, your abilities, and your interests. This will help you choose a suitable research direction and enjoy your learning process more.
While in Korea, the reputation of the school and other factors may be important, choosing a job that maximizes your talents will bring long-term satisfaction and success in your career.
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