【SOKA FILA×CAREER】 Specialist at a retail store of the multinational technology company

Mr. Jinwook Lee graduated from the Faculty of International Liberal Arts (FILA) in 2020 as the 3rd class. After graduation, he went back to his home country, South Korea, and now he is working at a retail store of the multinational technology company. He talked about why he chose Soka University and FILA, what he learned here, and how learning at FILA helps him to work.

Why did you choose Soka University and FILA?

When my mother was on the verge of graduating from high school, she was accepted into the faculty of literature at Soka University. However, due to the financial difficulties her family faced at that time, she had to forgo the opportunity to attend. She always hoped that I would study at Soka University. When she discovered FILA, which offers courses in English, she suggested that I pursue my studies there. I was excited by the prospect of learning interdisciplinary subjects, as they align with my academic aspirations. I aim to deeply understand global citizenship and have a keen interest in international relations. I was certain that FILA at Soka University was the ideal environment for my growth, a unique opportunity I believed couldn't be found at other institutions.

What is the best memory you have about FILA?

What did you learn in FILA?

I undoubtedly gained a wealth of knowledge from FILA. Beyond the immense academic learning, I must emphasize that the friendships I forged with members of the FILA 3rd batch were among the most valuable lessons I took away. Being an international student, I was initially apprehensive about adapting to life in Japan and at the university. However, every single person in FILA was incredibly warm and open-minded, which helped me quickly acclimate to campus life. These friendships made me more empathetic and less focused on the differences between people, a perspective I've maintained even after graduating from FILA.

Please tell us your story after your graduation from FILA.

Please tell us about your job.

I'm currently employed as a specialist at a retail store in Seoul. After three interviews with the current company, I became convinced that this was the right place for me. I was particularly impressed by their commitment to diversity and inclusiveness. Although I'm typically introverted, I wanted to challenge myself to become more socially comfortable and improve my communication skills with others. When you visit my company's store anywhere in the world, you'll often encounter employees who greet you warmly, engage in conversation, recommend our products and services, answer a myriad of customer questions, and assist with any technical difficulties regarding product use. That's me!

Why and how did you choose your current job?

During my job hunt, I encountered various opportunities. However, I chose current store not only because I loved their products but also because I was genuinely curious about the in-store experience. While studying abroad in Australia, I visitedone of the stores of my current company in Brisbane. It was my first time in the stores, and I was deeply impressed by both its design and the employees. Everyone seemed genuinely content working there. At that moment, I never imagined I'd one day work at a store of the company. However, after completing my military service and having the opportunity to interview with the company, I became certain that I would enjoy working there.

Do you feel your learning in FILA helps you in work? How?

Absolutely! While my primary focus at FILA was academic development, the interpersonal skills I acquired there have been invaluable. The store is populated with individuals from diverse backgrounds, and my ability to connect and get along with them stems from the invaluable lessons I learned in FILA courses about understanding different cultures.

What is your goal?

I've never given up on my dream of pursuing a PhD in political science. While I'm uncertain of the exact timing, I'm preparing daily to become a more competitive candidate for admission. I even have a publication stemming from undegraduate paper!

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