Woosong University Celebrates its 60th Anniversary

This past year, Woosong University celebrated its 60th anniversary. Since the founding of its original small campus in 1955, the university has established its unique history and traditions and gone on to become a global leader in higher education. The University was recently designated "Higher Education Specialization University" by the Accreditation Board for Higher Education. In celebration, Woosong held a variety of events for its birthday. Among the festivities were the proclamation ceremony for Woosong’s 100-year goals, the 60th anniversary Sol Concert, and the festival of multicultural families.

With the proclamation ceremony of September 22nd, a two-day athletic event was held. After President John E. Endicott addressed the crowd to celebrate the 60th anniversary and pronounce the university’s 100-year goals, Woosong freshmen participated in fun sporting events right after releasing dozens of celebratory balloons from the stage. Wearing tee shirts emblazoned with the names of their respective departments, they ran eagerly in relay races, and played dodge ball, soccer, basketball and foot volleyball. These events were followed by a fierce tug-of-war. Onlookers screamed and jumped to cheer for their teams. The Railway Vehicle System Engineering and Beauty Design Departments won the overall championship. In second place came the Culinary Arts Department.

Nam Seong Hyun, a student of the Railway Vehicle System Engineering Department echoed the sentiments of classmates saying, "It was a joyful experience to play together with our classmates."

The 60th anniversary festival was held on September 24th and 25th. Expectations about the festival were high because popular singers were coming to perform. Apink and Seo In Guk visited Woosong University for the anniversary on the 24th. On the 25th, IU, ZE;A, Sweet Sorrow, Heo Gak, Vos, and the Kim Jang Hoon band took the stage to perform and celebrate. Additionally, the Woosong festival had various games and activities like a casino with blackjack for all ages, and food of all kinds and a variety of products were sold. The Department of Hotel and Tourism Management’s Food and Beverage club sold cocktails and food. The Department of Food Service Management opened the events by dropping water balloons from overhead, under the clear autumn sky.

Yoo Sol Jae of Eventino Club said, "I felt good because I could participate in this festival. It was good to experience being a casino dealer. The University festival was amazing to have set up so many booths; this was not like any high school festival. It was good to show off the characteristics of our department. I hope to participate in future festivals."

The Woosong festival entertainment began at 6 o’clock with a talent show and audition of students from 15 teams. The competitors got the chance to demonstrate the dance and song skills they had been polishing in the past weeks. The dance performance of Chinese students in Korea won the first prize. They received a fervent applause for their powerful performance. The Sol concert was held on 25th. President Endicott addressed the crowd to celebrate the 60th anniversary and Global 100 year goals. Huge crowds turned out to see the famous singers at Woosong.

The festival of multicultural families was held on the 1st of October. This is the 60th anniversary wedding festival for love and spirit of multicultural families. It meant that our traditional wedding ceremony and our uniqueness and cultural art was shared by 16 different couples.

The staff of the Woosong Herald would like to thank everyone who organized and participated in the celebrations. May we enjoy many more such festivals in the years to come.

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Staff writers  Yun Su-In and others.

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The Cafe as a Public Space

The countless cafes near Woosong University show that there is a huge demand for cafes. In recent years, cafes have become important public places that are integral to the lives of modern people. How many college students go to cafes and what are their reasons for going?

Nowadays, coffee is more popular than ever. Anyone who wants to can visit a coffee shop and coffee shops are public spaces where everyone with enough money to buy a cup of coffee is welcome. People visit coffee shops for many different reasons. Some go to study, others go to chat with their friends and some people just want a rest from their busy lives. Also, there are many different kinds of coffee shop these days.

Close to Woosong, there are a number of takeaway coffee shops. The majority of student coffee shop customers actually go to these takeaway coffee shops. Students like to buy coffee from these shops to stay awake during their long hours of study or job seeking. The problem for the coffee shops is that there are few student customers during the vacation times.

But the cafe has also transformed into a public space that the public’s diverse needs. What are the public needs that are met by all of these coffee shops?

I investigated the frequency and reasons people visit coffee shops. Please click the pie chart below.

89% of respondents (111 people) answered that they go to one or more coffee shops each month and 51% of respondents (64 people) reached said they visit a coffee shop twice or more each week. 65% of respondents (72 people) said that their main reason for visiting coffee shops was to chat with friends. Only 22% of respondents (24 people) answered that they visit coffee shops to drink coffee.

In the end, the key for coffee shops to stay in business is to understand and meet the needs of their customers.

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Staff writer (Alicia) Yun Yeo-hui.

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Graduating? How to Stand Out from the Crowd

According to the Korean National Statistical Office, the unemployment rate in South Korea decreased to 3.20 percent in March of 2013, from 3.50 percent in February. It seems like employment is not a problem for college students but the question remains --- why do so many college students consider finding a job a colossal, mind-torturing process?

Recently, a series of surveys were conducted by the Woosong Herald on campus. Not surprisingly, a lot of Woosong students do not think it will be easy to find a job right after graduation. Asked to name the most difficult part of finding a job, Jinui Bak, a freshman from department of occupational therapy, said: ”Interview! That really freaks me out! I get nervous and all kinds of things by only thinking about interviews.”

Jaehyeon Bak, who has graduated from the Department of Railway Vehicle System Engineering, said: ”To get oneself highlighted is also important.” He explained the internship system at Korail to us, saying: ”6-month-long internship, 3 people out of 20 stay, what is the right strategy? Get more attention while not making a single mistake.”

Fortunately, the Human Resource Department of BM-Story (Daejeon) replied to the e-mail we sent asking for employment tips. Following are the tips given by the HRD manager, Hyeondeok Han:

1. Be persistent. The people who make a serious effort to get my attention show me they’re willing to go the extra mile to accomplish tasks.
2. Remember it’s not all about you. When an interviewer asks why you want this job, just tell them what you could bring to the table, not what you want.
3. Emphasize your leadership skills. Not everyone we hire is a 4.0 student with a perfect resume.
4. Polish your online presence. A candidate’s online image is so much more important than it was in the past, so please keep your frat-party photos off your Facebook.

“This really makes sense. It seems like everyone can make a fancy resume, it bothers me a lot how to look different in the crowd. GPA does not rule anymore and to be prepared for the job you want is the new major task,” he said.

We will continue to conduct surveys for details on job-seeking and offer the information to all Woosong students.

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Staff writers Cheng Hao and Lu Guang Ting.

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Do Not Give Up on Yourself

Advice from Woosong University’s Honorary President, Woo Nam Gyoon

President Woo is the person who led the economic development of Korea for 36 years, starting his career at Keumyoung Company (LG group) in 1974. He assumed the honorary presidency of Woosong in 2012 and he is now working hard to raise WSU students as competitive global talents.

Q: Why did you choose to work at WSU as the honorary president?

A: I feel like I was meant to come to WSU. I enjoy taking on challenges, overcoming difficulties, and achieving success. The history of Korean electronic products resembles WSU’s history. Now the products of LG Electronics are evaluated as number 1 or number 2 worldwide. But when I was trying to sell LG products back in 1974, nobody recognized LG. We had to promote our products in front of 400-500 dealers to get orders. It was a very difficult time to get through but if we didn’t go through that time, Koreans wouldn’t be leading the world’s electronics industry now.

Referring to past examples, WSU can also make huge improvements. LG Electronics’ annual sales were less than $30,000,000 thirty years ago, but now it has grown to 2000 times that of before. Likewise, WSU can position itself as the university focusing on the Asian perspective. WSU is way more passionate compare to the other universities showing their vision, strategy, and most importantly, the power to implement their vision. Other students take 11 weeks of rest during winter vacation, but WSU students keep studying on those cold winter days. That passion and commitment will make the dream come true.

Q: What is your plan to lead Woosong students?

A: As time passes, the birth rate in Korea will go down and universities will face difficulties in operating because of the decreasing number of students. To prevent the problem, WSU is adding various specializations in order to position itself distinctively. In an effort to train global talents, WSU affiliated itself with Solbridge and other universities, and it also offers various overseas training programs. In addition, I want to create partnerships with companies and position WSU students as prepared, customized talents. WSU and the company CJ Foodville formed a class as part of this project. Students study what you will learn at the first year of working at CJ during the 2nd semester of the 3rd year of their BBA. It reduces the company’s efforts and also increases competency of the students. We invited the CEO and Marketing Manager of CJ Foodville to teach students. “Specialization, Globalization, and Partnership” will be the direction for the future of WSU.

Q: Would you please give us recommendations about the essential activities that we must do in our university life?

A: “Get out of the dream; find the way to get into the real world.” You must be awake to face reality. Fantasy and reality are totally different from each other. The bridge to connect the dream world and the real world, I think, is vision. The key to realize your vision is to implement it. Even if you have a good vision, without implementing it, it doesn’t mean anything. Thus success equals vision plus implementation. (Success = Vision + Implementation). Student should utilize their university years to convert their dreams to visions, and learn the basics to implement the vision. Never give up on your dreams. It all begins from the dream.

Q: Lastly please give some advice to new Woosong students.

A: “You should suffer when you are young. And when you get older, you should share your experience of hardships to the young people.”

In fact if you were not born to rich parents, it’s not very convenient. But you cannot be disqualified for that condition in life. I personally think that I was lucky to be born into a not-that-rich family. I also was raised by normal parents and went to university by myself. If I had not gone through that time, I wouldn’t have challenged the difficult tasks like I did at that time. If you haven’t faced difficulties in your life, you will never know the depth of your life.

“Never give up on yourself.”

Students who gave up themselves are the most pitiable ones. You don’t need to get a high GPA. If you learn how to try your best all the time, that will be a big asset to you. Nobody can beat the person who prepares and makes an effort. If you stick to what you want to achieve and try your best, you can succeed. I hope our young students realize how precious they are and never give up on their lives.

“Speaking a foreign language is essential.”

In the future you should speak one other foreign language even if you only open a small retail store. When you are communicating with people from other cultures, there is no better way than showing good manners by using their language and understanding their feelings. Confucius says, “Isn’t it a pleasure to study, and to practice what you have learned?” I am also still studying foreign languages. I hope Woosong students will make a consistent habit of studying foreign languages.

Q: Can you tell us about your dreams?

A: My dream is to teach Woosong students well and make them competitive with the students at the universities in Seoul. Woosong students can do it. I think I can surely realize my dream because I had sold TVs, which is a more difficult task than this!

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Staff writers Han Byung Jun and Park JaeSeul.

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Interview with Professor Noh Yang-Kyu, Former Korean General

We had an interview with professor Noh on May 10, 2013. Noh Yang-Kyu is at Woosong and in the process of writing about North Korea. He is a security expert, and he graduated from Korea Military Academy in 1977 and then served for 36 years. Now he is teaching security studies and leadership at Woosong.

Woosong Herald: What is changing in the relationship between North Korea and South Korea?

Professor Noh Yang-Kyu: “When administrations change, they offer different policies. At the time of President Kim De-Jung, he implemented policies that helped North Korea. But Lee Myung-Park’s policies were different and didn’t help North Korea. Now the policy has changed again. President Park Geun-Hye thinks that if North Korea abandons their nuclear project and the study of missile technology, we can help them to grow. We want to talk instead fighting a war. This is how the policy has changed.”

WH: What do you think about Park Geun-Hye’s policy towards North Korea?

Noh: “Before we talk about that, people who live in their own country would like to believe in their president’s philosophy. South Korea and North Korea have a very special relationship. They have hurt each other and that has not been remedied. When the Korean War broke out, South Korea was far weaker than North Korea. But recently this has changed. South Korea is ranked 7th largest military in the world. So we would have a great military power during a war and we should try to be more peaceful with North Korea. South Korea is not immune to nuclear war. So I think Park Geun-Hye’s policy is good.”

WH: Can you tell me what do you think about nuclear missiles in North Korea? In this interviewer’s opinion, if North Korea has nuclear missiles and we are reunited, we will gain nuclear missile technology, and that would be a good thing.

Noh: “Well, that is very dangerous opinion because if nuclear missiles are given to us, many other countries will oppose us and we will be isolated in the world. So our economy will decline and life will get harder. And if we get nuclear missiles, we have to be aware of the consequences. Also, nearby countries like China and Japan will say that they also have the right to make nuclear missiles and maybe we have the next World War on our hands. So your opinion is very dangerous.”

WH: What do you think about the South Korea/US alliance?

Noh: “After the Korean War, America had South Korea’s wartime operational control. The alliance between the two militaries is strong for now, these days South Korea is stronger than in the past, so the alliance is stronger. If the alliance between South Korea and America is strong, Korea will remain safe and American investors will want to invest in Korea. That will make Korea continue to grow. So I think the alliance is important.”

WH: What do you think about North Korea’s hard-line policy?

Noh: “In history, many communist countries think the most important thing is to maintain their government. Also, North Korea wants to maintain the Kim government. But Kim Jeongeun, the leader of North Korea, is very young and has little or no experience, thus people don’t trust him. So he takes a hard-line policy, because he wants to maintain his government.”

WH: So why don’t they choose another policy?

Noh: “North Korea is afraid of opening up its broadcasting system because if they let citizens use the broadcasting system, then maybe the citizens will start a revolution against the government. So they allow citizens to be nervous about war, so they can to block any attempts at a revolution.”

WH: What do you think about relationship between the two Koreas in the future?

Noh: “Recently China has changed their opinion about North Korea. In China, some banks refuse to work with North Korea. That means China will not help North Korea. North Korea relies heavily on China, with aid levels at about 90%. So they cannot continue to have a hard-line policy without China. In the future they will want to have a conversation with us.”

WH: How do we do to reunite Korea?

Noh: “Some young people don’t want to reunite because they are worried about the damage to South Korea if we become reunited. But North and South Korea are one country and one ethnic group, one race. So the government needs to try and change their people’s minds and explain what they are doing. They should hold an open forum to discuss uniting the two Koreas.”

WH: What do students think about North Korea’s attitude?

Noh: “At Woosong University, I want many students to share their thoughts about security. Of course, they are very busy, between jobs and studying, but I hope that they are interested in Korean’s security.”

 

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Staff writers Min Jihong and Cho Wonha.

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Woosong’s Gyms for Woosongers’ Health

There are three gyms at Woosong University- the East campus, West campus and Solbridge.

However, Sol Sporex in Solbridge is considered the best gym at Woosong. Their motto is “We are doing together to care for our city's well-being life”. They provide many Daejeonites- and students an opportunity to a break from their busy lives and re-energize. Sol Sporex offers many facilities and fitness programs: a swimming pool, fitness center, sauna and group exercise- including yoga and aerobics. These programs are very popular among gym members. But if you don’t feel like exercising, the sauna, one of the more popular amenities at the gym, may work for you.

Sol Sporex has many specialists on hand to assist members with all its different programs. And if you have never worked out in your life, no problem- everyone has to start somewhere. “When I was young, my body was very weak and thin. But I did exercise; my body changed, I got healthier and gained confidence,” said Seung Hun Ryu, a Sol Sporex trainer. “So I work to help those who have had the same worries as I did.”

Some might consider other fitness clubs around Daejeon, but Woosong students find comfort in working out close to home. “I think the swimming pool is very good because it’s always clean with natural sunlight,” said an anonymous Woosong Freshman. “They have all different kinds of exercise equipment but not enough for all muscle-parts. One suggestion: “I know that Sports and Fitness management department students intern here. I hope they can be more kind to people who come to Sol Sporex for the first time.”

Sol Sporex's service hours vary each day.

On weekdays and Saturday, open 6 A.M. - 10 P.M. On Sunday and national holidays, open 6 A.M. - 7 P.M. And they are closed every 2nd and 4th Monday each month. For more information visit www.solsporex.co.kr

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Staff writers Park Hui Je and Han Ki Tae.

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Spring 2013 Woosong English Quiz Contest

The Spring 2013 Woosong English Quiz Contest was held in front of the Student Union Building, on May 14th, 2013, at 12:30p.m. This quiz was composed of three stages and it was taken on a computer. The first stage was composed of true or false questions, the second stage contained vocabulary and grammar questions corresponding to TOEIC parts 5and 6, and the third stage involved correcting any mistakes made in sentences or looking for a word's definition and guessing what it is.

Prizes were given to students according to their progression through each stage. The prizes for participation were cookies and juice. The actual prices for the winners were: first place was a Caffe Bene tumbler; second place, a Caffe Bene gift certificate, worth ten thousand won; and the third place, two meal tickets, worth six thousand won.

The quiz drew a lot of attention from students. It started at 12:30, but many students waited in line for 30 to 40 minutes. 360 students participated in the contest, in total, and there were 230 prizes. All the prizes were given to the participants.

To get the more specific information about the English Quiz Contest, we interviewed Dr.Park (Park Hee Sook), who was in charge of it:

What was the purpose of the contest?

“Woosong University puts emphasis on English. English is one of the most essential requirements to get a job. This contest was held to inspire students’ passion for learning English, so we made an interesting and fun English quiz. The purpose of this contest was so that many students gain an interest in English.”

What were some difficulties in hosting the English contest?

“At the end of English Contest, I asked one student, walking by the event, why don’t you participate in the contest? The student answered that ‘I am bad at English’. His lack of confidence made me feel sad. Many students think that they are poor at English, so, they didn’t participate. I felt regret about this as the host. The quiz had a range from easy to challenging. Woosong University students have studied for the TOEIC and have also taken the TOEIC test, but they still have low confidence in English. This is why they give up in advance and don’t challenge themselves. Although the prizes were great, still many students did not participate. This reluctance to participate was the most difficult thing.”

Did you expect that many students would come to the contest?

“Many more students took part in the contest than I expected. I am very satisfied with it, but I expect more students will participate in the future.”

How did you promote the contest?

“I worked hard to promote it, putting up banners and posters. Also, the Department of Academic Affairs sent all students text messages that advertised this event. I hope that the more people participate in the English contest next semester.”

Will you change the kind of prizes?

“The kinds of prizes need to be changed. I think the male students didn’t seem to like the tumblers and would have preferred Caffe Bene gift certificates instead. So we will survey the students’ preferences and change the prizes.”

Will the English Quiz Contest be held next year as well?

“A second English Quiz Contest will surely take place during the second semester, because the first contest was very successful; however, I am not so sure about next year. It will depend on how successful the second contest is.”

To get a student’s perspective of the contest, we interviewed two students who participated:

Cho Ara (21): "I won a tumbler. The contest was very interesting. I think that this contest is a good way to increase students’ motivation to study English. Also, I believe that this English contest made many students interested in English. I hope that this contest continues."

Choi Jinyoung (23): “I won a meal ticket. I often have little confidence in my English abilities. Nevertheless, I participated in the contest to win a tumbler. As expected, I failed at the first stage. It is very confusing and difficult for me. However, I will study English and TOEIC to get to the third stage and win a prize like the tumbler. I think that the waiting time was too long. I waited for about an hour. I hope that more computers are available during the next English contest.”

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Staff writers Jeong Min Ju and Choi Eun Hee.

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Woosong University 2013 Freshman Talent Festival

The 2013 Freshman Talent Festival was held on April 3 at the Woosong Art Center. It was a time for freshmen to express their individuality and passion through performances of singing and dancing. The event proved to be a precious memory for participants and the cheering audience. The first prize went to Son Kyouchan and Lee Gowoon, in the Culinary Arts Department, for their dance performance.

Participation in the Talent Festival is voluntary. Son Kyouchan leapt at the chance to strut his stuff in front of his friends and classmates, he then talked Lee Gowoon into joining him. Their impressive performance was the result of a month of practice in their dorm room and locker room. They also had to pass through a preliminary round judged by the Student Council of the Culinary Arts Department.

Lee Gowoon admits, despite all of their practice, feeling very nervous which lead to them making a mistake during their big performance. “But I plucked up my courage thanks to Kyouchan,” she said.

Son Kyouchan said that they were embarrassed when the first prize was announced, but also “glorified and happy”. 

Lee Gowoon adds that while they felt their performance was far from perfect, it was still an unforgettable experience and one they would recommend to incoming freshmen next year. Along with the acclaim of their classmates, the dancing duo won a trophy and a cash prize. They said that they plan on spending the money on a nice dinner for their senior student and friends who helped them with the performance. Lee Gowoon said while their dancing may have looked romantic, their actual relationship is strictly platonic – only friends.

Student head representatives for each department also performed at the Freshman Talent Festival. These upper classmen performed in multi-department teams. Their shows were to promote the spirit of Woosong student solidarity. A team consisting of Kim Jun of Global Korean Culinary Arts, Lee Gyeonghyeong of Culinary Arts, Lee Yangwoo of Hotel and Tourism Management, Jeon Saeheem of Culinary Nutrition and Food Science, and Choi Yangho of Foodservice Management brought down the house with their self-choreographed dance routine. Choi Yango said, “It was my first time to dance like that. I knew I was clumsy, but we were not. If there is another chance to dance together, I would do it again.”

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Staff writer Jin Hee.

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The Woosong University Global Volunteering Team, Sol Probono, Went to Indoneia

The Woosong University Global Volunteering group is comprised of: 28 Woosong students; and there are 5 professors in charge of this program, 33 people in total.

The group went to Jogjakarta, in Indonesia, from 17th to 24th of February, 2013 for eight days and seven nights of volunteering. They fulfilled a volunteering program which required them to perform a service effort, an education service, and a school health program with the Islam University, UII.

First, the service effort consisted of working on a farm, working on an infrastructure project for an apartment house, and working in the bamboo industry of Indonesia which is a major industry. Secondly, the education service consisted of teaching about Korean, art, music and physical education. Thirdly, the school health program consisted of skills such as proper hand washing and teeth brushing techniques. These activities were implemented at Tirtoadi Elementary School. Lastly, volunteering team took time to have a culture exchange with a local resident. Besides a Korean children’s song contest and a Korean food preparation event, a K-Pop and Dance performance was demonstrated. Furthermore, during the Korean food preparation event, the Team presented the traditional Korean food, kimbap. After this program, a kimbap restaurant will be started by one of the local residents in Jogjakarta.

At 6 pm on the 14th of March 2013, the Volunteering Team had a briefing session at Woosonggwan on the fourth floor. At the session, the student volunteers were given a presentation on the visionary future strategy for Indonesia, and what the students can do to continue volunteering overseas. During the session, I interviewed two students and one professor who had participated in the program:

-Park Hui Je (22)-

I taught the Indonesian children the formal Korean greeting and a deep bow. I felt a sense of extreme happiness when the Indonesian children performed our customs. Also, the project gave me the opportunity to understand Indonesia culture.

-Kim Young Jin (23)-

I taught the Indonesian children Taekwondo. At the end of their training, the children were shouting: “I LOVE TAEKWONDO!” and this gave me a shudder all over. One definition of volunteering is: ‘providing service to a person who needs help without cost’ but, I don’t think so. I think volunteering, while hard work, helps me gain a modest attitude and enjoyment.

-Chun Ji Eun, Professor-

Woosong University supports the “international university” policy, so we planned an overseas volunteer program for students to become growing global leaders. All of the student volunteers felt happiness through this activity and learned modesty, consideration, and gratitude.

Woosong University Global Volunteering Team, Sol Probono, raises the bar for all volunteering programs.

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Staff writer Haung Ha Na.

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Interview with President Endicott

We had an interview with President Endicott, on February 26, 2013. We wanted know his opinions on Woosong and Korea. We wanted to know why he planned to make a four semester system and his future plans for Woosong and his life.

Woosong Herald Staff: Opinion about four semesters for a year system.

President John E. Endicott: The four terms per year comes out to maximize efficiency as much as possible. If you have a long break after studying a language, you can forget much of what you learned. To bridge the gap, the four semester system was introduced. Woosong students can now graduate 6 months earlier than the other universities. This can help you to become a graduate student faster. Also, if you don’t want to get a job immediately, you can stay on to improve your language skills as well as completion of professional certifications.

WHS: Your opinions about Woosong University and how it will manage in the future?

Endicott: Woosong is doing fine, and I can’t be any more happy. We are globalizing and establishing alliances with businesses and foreign universities that can be of help. We have a plan in 2020 to include many more foreign campuses but I wish to concentrate on continual globalization and want to establish continual globalization with universities that can be useful for our students. I want to make sure we can place our graduates in rewarding positions for all concerned.

WHS: What do you think of Korea?

Endicott: The Korean myth is never finished as in the ‘Miracle on the Han River’ and Daejeon’s location is central in all things. Korean youth have earned an impressive status by nurturing their minds. Universities and the government must continue to work together. The American President, Obama, refers to Korea whenever he talks about education. He highly appreciates it as a model of success.

I admire a culture rich in history. I admire Korean examples in education, and I am thrilled to have a chance to be a part of these stories.

WHS: Do you have any plans after retiring?

Endicott: Living as long as possible! Why? I have several books to write and movies to produce. My Air Force career let me take part in some of the Cold War. I had served from May 1958 to June 1986, and then served an additional three years as a senior civilian Director of the Institute for National Strategic Studies in Washington, D.C. So I served from the height of the Cold War and 31 years of the Soviet Union. I was in the Air Force from the Taiwan Straits Crisis of '58 to 1989 and actually participated in the Cuban Missile Crisis, the Vietnam War, the Korean events of 1968-1969 -- the Blue House Raid, the USS Pueblo seizure, the EC-121 shoot down, the KAK 007 shoot down, etc.

I would also like to write about my life and my wife of 53 years, and I would like to produce movies of important moments about history in the 20th century when the Soviet Union and Mongolia defeated Japan’s attempted invasion that could have changed history.

So, you see, lots to do, but let's do Woosong first and think of retirement later, after all, I am only 77 this year.

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Staff writers Shin TaeHee and Cho Wonha.

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Woosong University- 2013 Youth’s Dream University

Dong A-Ilbo, Channel A, and Deloitte Consulting conducted a university evaluation and declared Woosong University as one of the ‘Youth’s Dream Universities’ of 2013. In the past, universities were evaluated on the following criteria: ratio of students to professors, research projects, number and types of publications, number and types of English courses, the types of facilities available on campus, the number of library books, and the perception of the university in the media, both at home and abroad.

Due to the flaws in the old system (such as overestimating a university’s value due to its name, or the size of the library), an effort was made to create a more accurate evaluation of Korean universities. Unlike the old criteria, a “Youth’s Dream University” is selected by evaluating students’ success at getting employed after graduation, student satisfaction with their education and job placement, and the programs and assistance offered to students, by the university, in obtaining a job. The evaluation is based, in part, on the idea that a university has a responsibility to assist students with preparing for their upcoming careers and getting a job.

Dong A-Ilbo, Channel A, and Deloitte Consulting evaluated 198 four year universities based on the new criteria, and selected 25 universities which were given a rate of excellent. The 10 best included Korea University, Kwang Woon University, Seogang University, Seoul National University, City University of Seoul, Sungsil University, Aju University, Yonsei University, Woosong University, and Hankuk University of Industry and Technology.

All of the selected universities provided college students with a high completion rate on important and relevant projects for their careers, innovative educational programs, and assistance with locating job opportunities. In other words, the university’s services and student satisfaction were really superb.

The results demonstrate that it is more important to rank a university by its actual effort to help the students succeed after college, rather than the general perception which ranks a university’s level according to the students’ academic achievements. It is an attempt to alter the prevailing concept of the hierarchical system of universities.

Dong A-Ilbo is planning to conduct this evaluation for ‘Youth’s Dream Universities’ every year, focusing not on their name recognition, but their innovative efforts and remarkable students.

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Staff writer Shin TaeHee.

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Baseball Star’s Positive Push on Campus and Life

On any given day at West Campus soccer field you can see a small number of men batting, fielding, and pitching baseballs together. One of them is Ahn Young Myung, professional baseball player of the Hanwha Eagles. He is now working as public military service worker in Woosong Sports center. If you are a big fan of Hanwha over the years, you might remember Ahn as a starting pitcher. Woosong Herald Sports met Ahn Young Myung on a cloudy day after his routine practice. We wanted to share his experiences as a pro baseball player and his insights on life with WSU students.

Ahn is well known for his poker face among baseball fans. He doesn’t even smile a little bit when he is standing on the mound. Many fans call him as “Chic Young Myung” because of his expressionless face but off-field he smiles and comes across very friendly. He said he is an introverted person who prefers to have deep relationship with small group of people.

Fans wonder why he shows this infamous poker face when between the lines. “It’s because of my childhood experience,” said Young Myung. “When I was young - that means when I was an elementary school student, I often revealed my raw feelings while playing baseball. If I did something good, I laughed, if not, I made a long face. But the coaches reprimanded me for revealing my emotion to the opponents. It’s not a good habit. I was educated to be poker faced when I am wearing a uniform at the ballpark. I think that lesson I learned in my childhood has influenced me until now. On the baseball field, I always try to be serious. Even when doing simple warm-ups, I concentrate on it. Sounds like I’m a boring person but that’s because I really love baseball.”

He accomplished 11 wins in 2009, hi-lighted by one game in particular against the Lotte Giants, September 8^th. Ahn Young remembers it like yesterday. “At Sajik Stadium in Busan I threw 9 innings and that win was my 10^th win,” said the 6-foot right-hander. “One win for a starting pitcher is very precious. During the long innings, there are some critical moments. If you overcome them well and throw more than 5 innings, you will have more of a chance to get the win. I think a win is kind of reward for your commitment.”

Korean baseball teams play 126 games a year. Starting pitchers take the mound at least 25 times. Sometimes he has to throw even though he is not in a good physical condition and not performing well. How does Ahn deal with this type of adversity? “I just think ‘well, I’m in a slump now. The key is staying positive during that time. I know it won’t last long so I just workout and know someday it will pass.”

Ahn Young’s glass full mentality remains clear. In 2010, the Eagles traded him to the Kia Tigers in exchange for Jang Sung Ho, a veteran hitter, and then returned to Hanwha 8 months later. Despite having to leave the Eagles, the only team he ever played for, Ahn remained positive.

“When I first heard about the trade, I tried to think about the positives. Hanwha Eagles sent me because they need a better player but looking at the other side, because Kia Tigers wanted me the deal could be made. I felt sorry for leaving my old friends but I tried not to be emotionally shaken. When I return to Hanwha I did the same thing- positive thinking– Hanwha Eagles need me right now.”

Ahn seems to be loved by both Hanwha Eagles and Kia Tigers fans. They expressed sadness over his movement to another team. Now Hanwha Eagles fans are waiting for his return. Ahn finishes his military service this December and he will come back to the mound next season. Currently Hanwha is not in a good situation, lacking solid pitching. Ahn Young hopes to change this with help next season. “Firstly I want to run the whole season without getting injured. My second goal is giving trust to people when I’m pitching,” said the 30-year old former HS draft pick. He is practicing regardless of the weather. If he doesn’t get injured he may resume his duties as a full-time starter. Ahn expressed confidence on the next season: “People say that when you just come back from the military service, the performance of the season is not that good. Since I have been working out steadily for 2 years, I won’t ruin the season.”

He wants to play baseball as long as he can, but at some time he will retire just like other legendary Eagles players. He sounded pretty determined when he was talking about his future dream. “For a long time, I thought over the relationship between performance and mental strength. Right now I have certification in Sports Psychology.

“We have a mental coach at Hanwha Eagles and he helps players a lot. Before I studied for this certification I knew that mental strength is much more important than skill or ability for a player. Nowadays people are getting to know the importance of the mental power and it is becoming the trend. I might be lacking in theories but I have actually experienced the situations by myself. So I want to be a Psychotherapist.

Right now Ahn Young assists Woosong students in their lives, passing on his experiences to them. He was drafted by Hanwha right after completing high school and went out into the real world earlier than our WSU students. Since 19 he has experienced life as a pro athlete. WS Herald asked him to give advice on college life to WSU students.

“You might have different majors but regardless of the field you are going to work, when you graduate from the university and come out to the workforce, there are times that you get frustrated by all the barriers and limitations. For me, when I first got onto a pro baseball team, I was astonished because even players in the minor league were way better than me. I felt the huge gap between amateurs and professionals. Before I thought I was a pretty good player, but I realized I should try harder to survive in the pro league. There’s always gap between student life and real society. But to reduce the shock, you have to study hard and never stop improving yourself. If you prepare more, then you get over the disappointment faster. Some people say enjoy your college life, but I think you should be serious and sincere about what you do in college. That’s all I can tell to the university students as a life senior who experienced society a little bit earlier than them. Study hard.”

During the interview time we couldn’t see the charisma he shows on the mound but felt his kindness and modesty. We really appreciate him for willingly accepting our interview request and sharing his experiences and thoughts. Eagles fans, wait for the next season. Ahn Young Myung will be back soon.

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Staff writer Lalia Park.

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LEO Club: Leadership Experience Opportunity

Do you know LEO? The LEO club here at Woosong is just one chapter in the world’s largest volunteer organization, Lions Club International. It is a service club with a mission to grow the local volunteer spirit and train upcoming generations in the ways of service leadership.

You might not know it, but LEO has existed at Woosong for several years, and it is operated by Jeong DeokJin, professor in the computer and information systems department.

“The club does many things, says Professor Jeong, “like volunteer at a facility for physically-challenged people, distribute free food to homeless people, clean up Woosoog University campus, and feed wild animals in the winter.”

“We also do friendly exchange activities with Lions,” Jeong DeokJin added.

When club members do activities of exchange with Lions, students get an advantage. The immediate advantage is the support of Lions, both material and mental. Long-term advantages that LEO members get include having their eyes widened to a greater world view, getting a recommendation for a job from other Lions club members, and finally they can get a scholarship.

Now and in the future, LEO club hopes to serve local residents by participating in activities of exchange between club members, both domestic and foreign.

To sum up his interview, Jeong DeokJin wanted to recommend the advantage of LEO club to freshmen. “The advantage is to grow in character and contribute to society through volunteering.”

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Staff writers Kim DaeJun and Kim AhReum.

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Malaysian Life which became a Fabulous and Precious treasure

Have you had an amazing vacation abroad? Here are 12 students who had a fabulous experience in Malaysia. They were chosen as outstanding students in last semester’s GEEC Class, so they had a chance to go to University of Malaya in Malaysia. This was the second time GEEC Classes provided this opportunity. They had many interesting experiences. Here is what they had to say.

Oh GyeongGeun, 20, Department of Electronic Railway Systems

“Before I went to Malaysia, I thought life in Malaysia was tough because their GDP is lower than ours, but I was wrong. It was exciting and fun! I met many new native friends and Korean friends. We always studied and traveled together. It helped expand my knowledge and view. Also, I learned not only English but team work and collaboration.”

In my case, I also went to Malaysia with GEEC. I experienced ‘the Ramadan fast’, but for just one day. It is a part of Muslim culture. They shouldn’t eat anything during the day because they purify themselves by fasting. It was very hard, but a worth while experience.

Before the students go to Malaysia, they divide in to teams, but it didn’t work because they were always together, regardless of their team. Everyone became great friends.

Son Byeong Jea, 25, English Department

“I never thought we are not different. We are like a family. There were other Korean University students, but we were the best. They envied us because of our teamwork. When we went to Singapore and Penang in Malaysia, we didn’t have time to plan our journey, so we had to plan on the spot. However, we enjoyed our journey because we were always ready to travel to unfamiliar places with positive attitudes. Above of all, we helped and trusted each other on our travels.”

We not only developed strong friendships, we also had the chance to enjoy native culture. Last August, there was a big holiday in Malaysia called ‘Hariraya’. We were invited to one of our Malaysian friend’s home. It was very good chance for us to experience Muslim culture.

Min Ji Hong, 20, Department of Railway Construction Systems

“Before we went to our Malaysian friend’s home, we thought it would be difficult to adjust because they are Muslim. However, we ate their traditional food and enjoyed their culture. Some our students wore their traditional clothes, so our Malaysian friend was happy. We stayed one night at their home and they treated us warmly. So we made some Korean food in return. I’ll never forget this experience.”

Throughout our Malaysia experience, the students learned many things such as collaboration, native culture, how to respect other cultures, leadership, and communication with foreigners. Also, they have developed confidence in using English and living in other countries.

Now they are ready to go abroad again and visit in other countries. This experience taught them what is really important in life.

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Staff writer Cha SuJi.

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A Supporter’s Good Experiences of the Model UN Conference

The 18th National Model United Nations Conference (MUN) was held at Woosong University under the auspices of the United Nations Association of the Republic of Korea (UNAROK) on July 4th through the 7th, in 2012. When I first came to Woosong University, I heard this news and wanted to participate in the conference. However, I did not know much about it because I am a freshman. Besides, only Honors students (students of score above 600 on TOEIC) may enroll in the MUN class, so I decided to take part in it next year.

First, I wanted to know what this contest was about and how it would be run. In mid-May, I happened to come across a public notice about recruiting observers and supporters for the conference and the application deadline was May 18th. Unfortunately, the deadline had already passed by a couple of days but I applied anyway because I really wanted to participate. I wanted to be an observer, but the only open positions were for supporters.

The supporters gathered for a meeting at the end of June to receive training. Then for the conference, we got to miss all of our classes and went to the office early on the morning of July 2nd to the 7th. As a supporter, I ushered the participants and carried luggage. I was so disappointed with this work because it was very difficult and different from what I expected. I thought that I would get to attend the conference with the others and watch like the observers; and, I would get to learn about this contest despite being a supporter. Of course among the supporters, there were members who did get to attend the conference. However, these duties were not given to me. In the end, I hardly gained any experience to use while attending the contest next year.

Although I was let down at first, I began to think positively. I knew that the benefits to me were greater than the disappointments to me. I want to gain a variety experiences at college. If I always sit in a chair, staring at books, it is possible get much better grades than before; however, that life is incomplete and I hope to have a fulfilling life while at university. l made many friends with the seniors while I was a supporter and I also quickly became very close to them and contact them frequently. I realized I could make more personal connections through this activity. In my opinion, it has been a great experience too because I get to work on things I haven’t been able to do till now. This was a nice experience for me.

When I think about it now, it is not that I didn’t learn anything from the contest. I met with a number of participants from different universities and learned about their languages and cultures; and, I also learned when and how to interview for writing articles. This conference will be held at Korea Army Academy at Yeong-cheon (KAAY) next year. Whether I will be an observer or participator is not yet decided. I want to be a part of this big event and I really need to do a good job; therefore, I first have to learn more about it and need to prepare more. Maybe I will apply for an observer position. Now, I am imagining how I will look when I participate in the event, and I am just thinking, “How much I will change?”

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Staff writer Cho WonHa.

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Campus Fashion: What’s Hot this Winter?

If you have stopped to look at students walking by on campus recently, you may see many fashionable men and women expressing their individuality through the clothes they wear. This winter, look for a new trend in men’s fashion: quiet colors contrasting with an eye-catching color, like khaki-colored military looks with a splash of bright orange.

Anyway, we wanted to know more about what new winter styles will be popular on campus this season, so we interviewed a beauty design major at Woosong University to get the scoop.

＊What is your favorite new clothing item for Winter 2012?

－My most favorite fashion is padding jumper. The reason is it’s easy; it’s warm, isn’t it?

＊Which is the trendiest country?

－I don’t know because each country has different cultures and we all have a different sense of style.

＊Where can we find trendy fashion in Korea?

－I think we can find great new styles in Myong-dong and Hongdae. Many people go there because these places are really fast to get new fashion.

＊What kind of fashions do you want to try on this winter?

－I really want to try on leather jacket, but I haven’t been able to find the kind I want yet. I want to buy a black leather jacket which has wool inside.

What about you? What kind of fashions do you want to try on this winter? Trying many fashions is really fun. You can try new styles and new colors this winter and meet the new you. Express your individuality!

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Staff writers Tanaka Saki and Seo Inho.

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Audio Books!

Are you carrying around a thick textbook everyday and you don’t have an I-pad or tablet PC of some kind, but you really want to read a book? So, if you only have a smart phone, the game is over… Well not anymore!

You can also use an Audio-book which is a recording of a text being read. It can be used not only on a Smart phone but also a PC or mp3 player.

There was an event, “Invitation to the Library” in the Woosong library on October 23th~25th. At the event, they introduced the “Audio book”. One of the students who was interested in it said,

“I didn’t know that the sound of an audio book was really clear and good sounding like this so much!! I hope Woosong continuously provides more content like this.” (22, Ju Eun Song)

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF AN AUDIO BOOK?

Audio books have special features compared to text books including Dramatic features, Convenience, and Effective language. .

Dramatic Features

Audio books have audionman PD which participates with the audio actor and makes the sound effects. It processes a sort of “striking display” effect. It‘s different from reading a text book because it is more active and helpful for concentration.

Convenience

For the Audio book, you can enjoy a book wherever, or whatever time is good for you regardless of the time or place. You can use it especially, during the times when most people are wasting time. For example, time at school or home, walking around, and driving. You can use these times wisely.

Effective Language

When you study a foreign language, it is important to listen many times. Using Audio books, you could listen anytime or several times. In addition, you get accustomed to hearing original pronunciation and learning adequate situational sounds. Moreover, it influences your memory for remembering efficiently.

HOW TO USE THE ADUIO-BOOK?

1. Go to the Woosong Library Homepage (PC)

You can find the Audio book banner on the Woosong library homepage. It classifies  the sections such as literature, history & humanity, self development, economy & business management, health, and language etc. With the PC, you can transfer a book through mp3 or pmp files.

2. Use your smart phone

①Go tothe Woosong Library homepage

②Enroll as a smartphone user

③Download the app “오디언도서관” (HANSOL C&M CORP.)

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Staff writer Shin Hye Kyung.

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Welcome to the Woosong Counseling Center!

Last October, I went to the Woosong University’s student counseling center and met with a counselor for an interview. The atmosphere of the center was more comfortable than I expected and counselees were seen during the interview time.

In the interview, one of the counselors spoke to me very kindly.

-Hi, when was this facility established?

-It was established before 2004, but I don’t know the date exactly.

-Yeah, how many counselors work in this facility and what is their major task?

-Three administration assistants, one counselor and one associate professor of the Medical Society and Welfare department work in this facility. We are tasked with not only counseling students who are suffering personal difficulty, trouble about their results, and sexual difficulty , but also do examinations which included the MBIT(personality test), vocational tests, and aptitude tests. Because of studying in the University, Students mainly want to test the MBIT and vocational tests.

-I agree, then, is there someone else for the students who are not fully resolved about their personal difficulties?

-In that case, I advise the student more personally than other ordinary students.

-Okay, what are the problems with students who are suffering not only personal difficulties, but also other issues?

-I think students are very strained about coming to this facility. In the Korean social atmosphere, those who are going to a counseling center or psychiatric hospital seem to some that they have a psychiatric or critical fault, like a stranger. But, this is unrighteous. In other countries, especially western, it is ordinary for individuals to seek psychiatric help.

Even a number of counselees conceal this fact fro people, their close friends and even families.

-Finally, do you have any advice for those who are suffering any difficulties?

-Woosong University students please don’t be scared about coming for counseling at this facility. I will welcome a student in a heartfelt way and hope to help you when you are completely cured about your difficulties as a counselor. Thank you for your questions.

During the interview time, I felt the kindness and sincerity the counselors had for students. I think this facility is necessary to accommodate many students who are  suffering difficulties and hope to activate in Woosong University. Thank you.

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Staff writer Park Hyung Joon.

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Baseball Legend Lectures at Woosong

Students lined all the way outside the library auditorium to see one of Korea’s all-time baseball stars. Park Chan Ho, current Hanwha Eagles and former Major League Baseball pitcher gave a special lecture in front of a packed-house October 25th. As seats filled, students stood and sat in aisles to get a glimpse this very successful athlete and businessman.

Park summed up his coveted baseball career as it began with the LA Dodgers at just 21 years old. He had spent his glory days in Los Angeles, setting a Korean record, winning 124 games in Major League Baseball. Chanho Park is the envy of many baseball players in Korea.

The lecture went on with his life story. He gave the Woosong students helpful advice for their future while sharing the tools that made him successful, such as time management- crucial to students.

With ten minutes left in the lecture, he started to accept various questions from the students. Some of questions were pretty hard to answer for Chanho Park and he commented on how these students were just as professional as journalists he has faced here and in North America. Park fielded questions dealing with his future plans, what he might have done if he didn’t turn pro baseball player and advice for teammate and Korean baseball sensation, Ryu Hyun Jin, who appears headed to play at the highest level- MLB. To the surprise of many, the crowd learned that Park thought he “might have worked as a judge, gangster or something else.”

Woosong students with varying degrees of interest in Park and baseball, walked away with new opinions and admiration after the lecture. Park impacted his audience. “Honestly, I was surprised to see Chanho Park who was really famous in MLB. And he was more well-built than I thought. He told students of his experiences,” explained Dongjun Seo.

Park may have also helped ticket sales for his team while inspiring some too. “I was not a huge fan of baseball. However, he gave me confidence and courage.

So I thought I’m going to see a baseball game next year. I didn’t know what he did before coming back to Korea. But I realized he was such a fabulous baseball player in the past. So I started respecting him,” said Jungah Kim, Woosong student.

As the lecture ended, Park buttoned his jacket and hurried out, after a swarm of students approached the tall athlete. He signed a few autographs and stood for a few photos. Nobody knows where his baseball future will lead. At 39, he walked out of the Woosong Library in the twilight of his career; students may have seen the last of Chanho Park the player. However, his words have just begun to impact some new followers.

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Staff writer Seunghwan Jung.

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Model UN held at Woosong University!

The 18th National Model United Nations Conference (MUN) was held at Woosong University on July 4th through the 7th, in 2012. This contest began in 1995. The United Nations Association of the Republic of Korea (UNROK) hosts it and it is supported by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MOFAT). The conference has provided university students with direct experience for international cooperation and diplomacy negotiation.

This year’s contest had 459 participants from 66 universities. It was comprised of 4 committees: participants on committees 1 and 2 had to speak in English whereas participants on committees 3 and 4 could speak in Korean. Competitors, representing different nations, on each committee were selected by a random draw. The topics for MUN were divided into the four committees in the following way:

• Committee 1: “Global Efforts to Counter Nuclear Terrorism and Strengthen Nuclear Security”
• Committee 2: “Global Efforts to Protect the Basic Human Rights of Migrant Workers”
• Committee 3: “Global Efforts to Address the Challenges and Threats in Cyber-space”
• Committee 4: “New International Development Goals and Framework Beyond MDGs and Post-2015”

Each committee announced a resolution after thorough discussion and argument.

The judges of the contest were comprised of former ambassadors and MOFAT officials. They inspected all formal conferences and evaluated the work of each committee. Then they awarded the highest first prize (MOFAT Minister’s Award), a grand prize (KOICA Director’s Award), an excellence prize (UNA president’s Award), a participation prize (UNA president’s Award), and an encouragement prize (WSU president’s Award). The highest first prize winners were granted a visit to a conference about the United Nations as a supplementary prize.

Woosong University president John E. Endicott said, “WSU went one step further to become a specialized university of Asia due to the 18th National MUN” and that, “contestants protected the welfare of their states and progressed to an intense debate with negotiation for achieving the universal goals of the UN. So, they’re going to reconsider the importance of international cooperation.” President Endicott also said, “I want all of the participants to do their best to remember this well.’’

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Staff writer Cho Wonha.

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