I had always believed that I wasn’t particularly studious, let alone someone who excelled in school. However, during my bachelor's degree in Korean Studies, I discovered how much I enjoyed writing papers and conducting my own (though small and limited) research. For this reason, I chose to pursue this growing passion and enrol in the Asian Studies master’s programme with a specialisation in East Asia.

The programme

In my experience, the Asian Studies master’s degree allows you to explore your academic interests in greater depth. The smaller class sizes foster closer interactions with professors, which is particularly beneficial for those aiming to pursue a career in academia.

Career plans

Currently, I’m part of the administrative team at the Embassy of the Republic of Korea, holding the official title of Receptionist. It may not sound like a particularly exciting role to those with a bachelor’s and master’s degree. However, for me, it offers a valuable experience outside of academia before I pursue my original plan of securing a PhD position in Political Science.

After I was hired, I realised that the position entailed much more than just answering the phone and forwarding emails. Working in an intercultural environment creates a dynamic atmosphere, and it requires you to become more culturally aware in both your way of working and communication with colleagues.

Thriving

Another benefit is that it immerses you in current political affairs and diplomacy. Although my position isn't directly involved in diplomacy, working at the Korean embassy offers a front-row seat to diplomacy in practice, while it also keeps you in the loop with the latest political developments. As someone with a strong interest in politics, it's certainly a place where my passions can thrive!

"In my current position as management trainee at TU Delft, I benefit every day from having followed the MA East Asian Studies. I owe it to this programme that I have a unique outlook on the world, which makes a great difference when making decisions or doing business."

Intercultural sensitivity

"It improved my analytic skills, critical thinking and problem solving abilities. Thanks to my one of a kind background, heightened intercultural sensitivity and communication skills, I am able to create opportunities that make life and career even more interesting!"

Plenty of flexibility and freedom

"Whichever track you choose within the programme, there is plenty of flexibility and freedom to pursue your own academic interests. I really enjoyed the diversity of the curriculum. My field of study being sociology, I wrote my thesis about the relationship between fans and anti-fans in Korean popular music fandom. I followed intensive courses that provided essential and comprehensive material which proved very useful for my perception of the world as well as my research. Another fantastic asset of this programme is the option to do an internship. This is a great way to prepare you for your career."