Korean Concentration

Diego Wheat, 2024

How did you choose your degree program?

Growing up in a multicultural area, I was fascinated by the diversity of languages and cultures around me. This curiosity led me to study Korean, which felt so different and exciting compared to what I already knew. I initially wanted to try just one Korean course at Mason before graduating, but I quickly became captivated by both the language and the broader cultural studies. Each class deepened my interest, inspiring me to go all in and add Korean Studies as a second major.

How did your academic experiences in the Department of Modern and Classical Languages impact you?

My courses in the Department of Modern and Classical Languages greatly broadened my perspectives, offering deep insights into the language, history, and culture of Korea while situating these within a global context. The advanced courses were particularly impactful, with opportunities for exploration, research, and thought experiments that pushed me intellectually. The skills I gained in analyzing language and culture continue to be invaluable as I pursue personal study goals, like proficiency exams, where I see how well the courses were tailored to real-world needs. Beyond the classroom, engaging with professors during office hours and participating in extracurriculars like language exchange tables helped me build connections and gain advice that still guides me in my career today.

What accomplishment(s) during your time at Mason are you most proud of?

The accomplishments I’m most proud of at Mason include earning awards, conducting research, presenting at conferences, and supporting others in their academic journeys. Winning the KAEF Scholarship, for example, was not only a financial aid but also an invaluable experience in building career skills through the rigorous application process. I also conducted research on topics like Korean cultural codes in society, media adaptation for international audiences, and North Korea's informal economy. One highlight was presenting a speech on the Korean Wave at a conference, which felt like a rewarding culmination of my studies. Through volunteer and internship roles, I also had the chance to guide high school students and help ROTC undergraduates achieve their language proficiency goals. Each of these experiences was a great reminder of how much the department provides for students to achieve their ambitions and develop essential skills.

Are there faculty or staff members who made a difference during your Mason career?

Every professor I had as an undergraduate Korean Studies major played a meaningful role in my journey. Listing each of them and their contributions could fill an essay, and I wouldn’t want to leave anyone out, so I’ll refrain from naming names. Each professor brought unique expertise in various fields within Korean Studies, and I would highly recommend their courses to anyone interested in these areas. The fact that I can wholeheartedly endorse any professor in the department reflects the support and guidance I received, which extended well beyond coursework. They each helped me master the material, challenged me to think critically, and prepared me to approach my future career with confidence.

What are your current career plans following graduation? What are your long-term career goals?

My background in Korean Studies, combined with the technical skills I developed, led me to a role as a software developer and data analyst. While technical expertise is key, the interpersonal skills I gained through humanities courses are equally important for collaborating and problem-solving in this field. Looking ahead, as I build more experience in software development, I hope to contribute to language acquisition, potentially through an app that addresses gaps in language-learning resources. While my long-term career goals remain flexible, I’m motivated by the idea of blending my passions and skills to make a meaningful impact and support others as we navigate an evolving world.