Journey of Growth at SIPS: Choosing One’s Unique Path to Building Peace

Seungjin Chung, also known as Gina, is from South Korea and an alumni from the first batch of SIPS program. Before entering SIPS, she first enrolled as an undergraduate in the Faculty of International Liberal Arts (FILA) at Soka University. During her time in FILA, she developed a strong interest in international relations, particularly issues concerning East Asia, while also growing personally through adapting to a new cultural and linguistic environment. As she approached graduation, Gina faced uncertainty about her future direction. This changed when she learned, through her seminar advisor Professor Koide, that the SIPS program would be launched in 2018, the same year she was set to graduate. Wanting to further develop her research on Korea–Japan relations and to remain in the academic community she deeply valued, she decided to enroll in the SIPS program. SIPS program’s emphasis on peace, combined with Professor Koide’s expertise in Asia-Pacific international relations, strongly influenced her decision.

Gina’s experience in SIPS was academically demanding yet transformative. High expectations, intensive reading schedules, and rigorous discussions challenged her greatly, especially as a member of the program’s first cohort. Without senior students to guide them, Gina and her peers relied heavily on one another to study and exchange ideas together. Through sustained collaboration with peers, she adapted to the program’s intensity, strengthened her academic discipline and confidence, and broadened her perspectives through close, cross-cultural discussions.

Currently, Gina is working in the International Student Affairs Department of Soka University’s International Affairs Office, where she supports students from diverse cultural, linguistic, and social backgrounds. Drawing on her experiences in the SIPS program, she approaches her work with empathy and openness, viewing cultural differences as varied perspectives shaped by experience rather than as right or wrong. The program’s emphasis on dialogue and critical reflection has strengthened her ability to communicate thoughtfully, listen attentively, and respond flexibly to students’ needs, while reinforcing her belief that sincere, everyday interactions can contribute meaningfully to peace.

To current and prospective students, Gina shared this message of encouragement: SIPS may feel broad at first, and you might wonder where your path lies. However, that breadth also means that any field, interest, or question you pursue can be connected to peace. Embrace the diversity of ideas and do not hesitate to voice your own thoughts while remaining open to learning from others. The challenges you face and the dialogues you engage in will gradually shape your direction. Even when the path feels unclear, trust that sincere learning and small, steady efforts can make a meaningful difference. Believe in your journey and use the freedom of SIPS to define your own way.