In 2018, Seung Gyo Kim, a senior majoring in conflict analysis and resolution, received a disappointing email that read, "After careful consideration, we regret to inform you that you have not been selected for the College Leaders at the UN (CLUN) program." This rejection marked a pivotal moment in Kim's life.
Kim had submitted his application for the World Federation of the United Nations Associations’ CLUN program in New York through Mason Korea's Career Development Center (CDC), only to be met with disappointment. During a period of self-doubt and uncertainty about his future, Kim decided to volunteer at the Mason Korea graduation ceremony in 2019. It was during this event that Sangyong Lee, Director of the CDC, approached Kim and said, "You are someone destined for greatness. I believe in your creative potential."
Fast forward to this summer and Kim's journey came full circle as he took a flight to New York, not only as a participant but as the 12th president of CLUN. Leading his team to receive the highest accolades, Kim reflected on his experience, saying, "As a CONF major, I firmly believe that a leader is someone who can collaborate with individuals smarter than themselves. I enjoyed the opportunity to uncover the diverse and dynamic strengths of my team members, enabling us to achieve greatness in New York."
Today, Kim stands as a highly motivated senior, working as a research fellow at The United Nations Office for Sustainable Development (UNOSD). In addition, he serves as the director of the Korea Art Songs Diplomacy Lab. As a trained baritone singer specializing in Korean art songs, he uses his vocal talents as a public diplomacy tool to facilitate cultural exchanges with diverse countries.
"Despite the questioning from others about my decision to continue my education at Mason after my initial struggles, I've forged my own path by combining classical vocal music, diplomacy, and leadership on international stages," Kim explains. "This achievement was only made possible because of the unwavering support and belief from those who stood by me."
Kim now encourages his fellow students, saying, "Keep moving forward, believing that your time to shine will come, with each day offering a fresh chance to progress."
October 25, 2023