On April 19, 2013 there was a special lecture with the theme, “Youth, Overseas Expansion” in classroom 11316 in the College of Humanities. This lecture was given by Lee Ki- Chan, a professor at the Korea National Diplomatic Academy. He passed the Foreign Service Examination in 1979 and worked as a counselor of Austria in 1992.
This lecture was about youths going overseas. The professor talked about international organizations such as the JPO (Junior Professional Officer), UNV and internships.
The JPO is the first international organization that can aid expansion. This system supports sending youths to international organizations through the government’s expense. It requires people to be under the age of 32, and to have a bachelor’s degree. It also requires a 900-point TEPS score, and English proficiency. The JPO has a test once a year. The JPO dispatched 55 people to international organizations.
Second is the UNV (UN Volunteers). This service corps sends youths to various UN organizations. Only people with bachelor’s degrees may apply. Third is the internship system we know and use. It allows young people to gain experience in international organizations and gives the opportunity to create human networks.
The Government Integrated Overseas Volunteers is also a stepping-stone for youths. The KOICA (Korea International Cooperation Agency) dispatches 4,000 overseas volunteers every year. There are ODA youth internships and junior consultant positions. The KOICA selects 400 ODA youths annually for internships, and will produce 300 junior consultants for 5 years.
Professor Lee talked a survey of Yale University graduates. The survey asked when the most enjoyable time in your life was. Most Yale graduates said when they had an adventure. Although the adventure failed, they were satisfied and happy. Professor Lee said, “When you are in your 20s, you should get a lot of experience and go overseas.”

Lim Guk-jin  -

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