In this blog post, I will introduce my motivations for applying to the Department of Political Science and International Relations, outline my specific academic plans, and explain my future career goals.
Motivations for Applying
Since I was a child, I have consistently nurtured the dream of becoming a diplomat. I believe that entering university is a crucial first step toward realizing that dream, which is why I have applied to your university’s College of Political Science and Economics. I am applying to your university with the conviction that I can grow into an international leader here, given its history and traditions that reflect its status as the undisputed top university in South Korea, its outstanding faculty, and its specialized curriculum. Every profession comes with a sense of mission and responsibility. In particular, I believe that diplomats, who are directly involved in diplomatic issues between nations, must be well-rounded role models who possess not only professional expertise but also a broad education and strong character. The fact that many graduates who majored in Political Science and Diplomacy at your university are currently active as diplomats is, I believe, a testament to the excellence of your educational curriculum. I look forward to studying at your university, following the example set by my seniors, and dedicating myself to my studies to become an outstanding diplomat.
Academic Plan and Goals
I believe that the beginning is crucial in everything. I believe that being admitted to your university will already be a great start for me. Having been given this wonderful opportunity, I plan to complete your university’s curriculum diligently and with a clear plan. I believe that political diplomats, who bear the heavy responsibility of fostering constructive relationships through smooth coordination and consensus-building between nations, require a diverse range of skills. In particular, I believe that international acumen is an essential requirement for political diplomats who build trade relations between countries. I will devote my full efforts to developing my expertise as a political diplomat through the following three specific academic goals.
Language Proficiency
First, I will master English to a native-speaker level and acquire advanced proficiency in a second foreign language. Eloquence is not only the most fundamental requirement for a political diplomat but also the most crucial measure of a diplomat’s competence. I believe that merely flashy or fluent English skills are not suitable for discussing major policies between nations. Language is inseparable from a country’s sociocultural concepts. I will develop English proficiency that allows me to grasp the sociocultural implications embedded within the language. Furthermore, alongside English, I will strive to develop proficiency in a second foreign language, such as Chinese or Japanese, which are widely used in various countries.
Broadening Horizons
Second, I will broaden my horizons through diverse social interactions. I believe that diplomats require the insight to assess the state of affairs. To cultivate professional expertise across economics, society, and culture, I will take a variety of liberal arts courses. I will increase my social engagement through volunteer club activities and broaden my horizons by traveling during school breaks. Additionally, I plan to form a community with senior alumni currently active in the field to join a new group of professionals.
Staying True to the Fundamentals
Third, I will remain faithful to the fundamentals and the right path. Above all else during my college years, I will prioritize fulfilling my duties as a student in the Department of Political Science and Diplomacy. Even when overwhelmed by a heavy course load and various activities, I will not forget the importance of my core major studies and will do my best to earn the highest grades possible. Once I begin to build professional knowledge in my field, I plan to simultaneously prepare for the Foreign Service Examination.
Post-Graduation Plans
After graduating from university, I plan to gain practical experience as a diplomat as soon as possible. I will begin by fulfilling all the qualifications required to serve as a diplomat. I believe we are currently in an unstable period, with ongoing controversy over the abolition of the Foreign Service Examination and no definitive confirmation regarding the implementation of the successor system.
Although I had planned to prepare for the Foreign Service Examination while in college, if the exam is abolished and a new system is established, I will adapt swiftly to the new system rather than getting caught up in the confusion. This is because I believe that meeting the qualifications to become a diplomat under the new system is the fastest way to gain practical experience. Even after I acquire the institutional qualifications to become a diplomat and begin my practical work, I will not neglect my efforts to become a better diplomat. I will consistently improve my foreign language and communication skills through language institutes, and I will build my own database by analyzing various phenomena arising from the ever-changing international situation and devising countermeasures in advance.
Self-Introduction
I believe a diplomat must be someone who serves the nation and society with a thorough sense of responsibility and a professional sense of mission. I consider it extremely dangerous to prepare for a diplomatic career with the intention of pursuing personal glory or satisfying one’s own self-interest. Furthermore, as a political diplomat who directly influences national affairs, one must always prioritize the rights and interests of the nation and its people over one’s own. Ultimately, I dream of an ideal political system where the people are satisfied and the nation enjoys peace. Of course, I recognize that conflicts exist between the state and its citizens, and there will likely be many occasions when I must make difficult decisions that cannot satisfy everyone. However, I am determined to ensure that, at the very least, the people do not suffer anxiety or harm due to disputes between nations. To achieve all these goals, it is essential above all else that I possess the necessary capabilities as a diplomat. I will never lose sight of my professional commitment to becoming a political diplomat who contributes to the stability of the nation and its people, and I will continue to work diligently to realize my dream.
