My Story with Sogang University

 

My name is Lu Pan, and I am from Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China. Born in 1987, I was 29 years old when I pursued my master’s degree at Sogang University.

From 2016 to 2018, I completed my postgraduate studies at Sogang University, majoring in International Finance. I take great pride in the fact that during those two years at Sogang, I did my very best in every aspect of my studies, and graduated with straight A’s in all 19 courses.

 

Why I Chose Sogang University

 

When I applied for my master’s degree, I had already been working for nearly six years. At that time, I only wanted to pursue further education without a specific country or university in mind. However, my husband has been doing business with Korean companies, and on the recommendation of his Korean business partners, I applied to Sogang University. Fortunately, I was not only admitted but also awarded a generous scholarship.

 

I knew I was different from traditional students — my opportunity cost of studying was much higher. Therefore, I had to work harder. During my two years at Sogang, I did not have much time for entertainment. Listening to the insights shared by Sogang’s top professors was the greatest joy for me.

 

The biggest influence and change Sogang brought to me is that I became more confident. Although English is not my strongest skill, thanks to my life and work experience, as well as thorough preparation for every presentation, my speeches received high recognition from professors and classmates. This encouraged me to become more willing to express and share myself.

 

This habit has continued to serve me well after returning to China to manage enterprises. Thanks to my strong communication skills, I have had many opportunities to speak in public. Last year, I was even invited by Family Business, an authoritative Chinese magazine, as an annual guest speaker to share my growth journey and experiences as a second-generation entrepreneur.

My Most Unforgettable Memories at Sogang

 

The most unforgettable moments for me are every instance when I gained recognition from professors and classmates.

Academically, the professors shared their knowledge generously, greatly elevating my thinking and academic perspective. As a Chinese student who did not speak Korean, I received a lot of help from classmates in daily life. In return, as an older sister figure, I was always willing to share my life experience and offer advice when they felt confused or lost.

 

I am truly grateful for everything Sogang University has given me, and I continue to benefit from it to this day.

A Message to Juniors

 

I am delighted to receive an email from Sogang today, asking me to provide some sharing materials as an alumna for current and future students. I would like to share my wonderful Sogang experience with you.

 

My advice to you is: fully enjoy your student life. No matter what stage of life you are in, learning is always beautiful and rewarding for a lifetime.

 

Today, I am preparing to pursue further education and apply for a doctoral degree. I believe that as a core manager of an enterprise, my own ceiling is the ceiling of the enterprise. I am committed to lifelong learning, leading my team and my business to greater heights.

 

Finally, I wish Sogang University continued prosperity, and all alumni peace and joy.