Early days
I was a globe-trotter, growing up in Seoul, Hong Kong, Rome, Milan, Tokyo, and New York. The everchanging location and nature of my upbringing nurtured a deep passion for things that are dynamic and international.
During college at Yonsei University I pursued this passion and was actively involved in government exchange programs. I was the Korean delegate in the Korean–ASEAN youth summit and a youth representative to Mexico as well as to the United States. I worked in the United Nations in New York and at an NGO called Feed the Hungry that builds bread factories in developing nations all over the world. But perhaps the most significant endeavor for me was starting a Model United Nations in Seoul where students would discuss the most pressing international issues as delegates of different countries. This summit grew to be one of the biggest youth conferences for college students in Seoul, and I was able to see this forum empowering individuals to learn, gain new perspectives, and dream for bigger things. This sowed in me a hunger for work that had visible impact on people.
The journey to McKinsey
By the end of 2009 I was nearing graduation. Like many I had to ask myself what I really wanted next. I knew I wanted to be in a place that is dynamic and global; a place where I could grow as a leader, with people who want to have impact. I also wanted a place where I could learn something practical and business-related which would be useful for wherever I go and whatever I do in the future. This is when I started talking to a mentor who was working at the World Bank who was a McKinsey alumnus. She heard my story and recommended McKinsey.
Life at McKinsey
She was right that McKinsey is a good fit for me. McKinsey has allowed me to pursue a career in a dynamic, global, and impact-driven organization. I have worked in Seoul, Taipei, San Francisco, Beijing, and Singapore and served companies in industries ranging from high tech to petrochemicals. I work with teammates from all over the world. I have been able to reconnect to my college passions and have worked with the McKinsey Global Institute on urban growth research.
Most of all, I am able to work with colleagues to solve problems that are crucial for our clients. I see the fruits of our work being implemented and changing business leaders, practices, and perspectives. That is why I feel that this is not just a workplace, but a dynamic place of learning where we make high-impact, lasting decisions that result in real progress.
Education
| Yonsei University, Underwood International College |
BA in international studies |
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