Participating in the 2045 Fellowship provided me with invaluable learning and growth opportunities. Through lectures by renowned speakers from diverse fields, I was able to gain in-depth knowledge and broaden my understanding of various topics, including technology and policy. Additionally, by engaging with the Schwarzman Scholars, I was able to form a global network and significantly expand my perspectives.
Most notably, the experience of planning and executing projects with like-minded friends was the most impactful.
In this process, I experienced the joy of collaboration and gained a valuable harvest – acquiring colleagues with whom I can continue to grow together.

The 2045 Fellowship serves as a space where theory meets practice. Here, we confront various social issues, asking ourselves what we can do to address them. This six-month program brought together people with shared interests to discuss potential changes to our world. Diagnosing issues, envisioning solutions, and taking action all require different approaches. Although confronting these challenges alone can feel overwhelming, the fellowship taught me that collective effort is key to tackling complex social issues.

As someone who aspires to view the world from diverse angles, I sought opportunities to learn about fields outside my expertise. Through the fellowship, I gained models of thought in areas such as international relations and ethics. The questions raised by mentors and the conversations with fellows helped me think critically about issues that Korea and the world will face. This experience has laid the foundation for my continued reflection on societal issues and solutions.

The fellowship experience redefined leadership and problem-solving for me. Immersing myself in societal issues and devising concrete solutions with peers highlighted the power of collaborative problem-solving. Applying my core strengths to solve real-world issues was both challenging and rewarding. This journey taught me that leadership is not just about guiding others, but about working alongside them to enact change. Reflecting on my role in creating positive social impact, I feel inspired to continue building on these insights for Korea’s future.

The 2045 Fellowship provides a platform for developing yourself to become a proactive leader. It encourages participants to envision the Korea they want to help create by 2045 and asks, ‘What type of leader do I want to be in that future?’ The fellowship fosters a critical awareness that meaningful change requires more than critique—it demands action and commitment to finding solutions. The program allows for deep reflection and meaningful dialogue, helping me recognize my own limitations and gain new perspectives. The discussions were intense, yet focusing on social issues marked the beginning of a purposeful life. This experience has reinforced my commitment to creating a positive impact in my chosen path.

I joined the 2045 Fellowship to meet individuals who had strong perspectives that they compellingly advocated. I wanted to encounter those who see the world as layered and multi-faceted, instead of being confined to a single view or subject. The fellowship created a space filled with genuine passion from those who wish to change the world. I spent time adding and subtracting from my ideas, expanding them with insights from others. Any approach to transforming the world is valid, and I learned that remembering these individuals will help me continue to broaden my world and welcome theirs. I hope future fellows experience the same warmth and spirit. Regardless of your background, you will be welcomed and embraced.

The 2045 Fellowship broadened my perspective at a formative stage in my life. Before the fellowship, I was highly focused on a single path. However, I realized that life encompasses many aspects, and to advance meaningfully, I must balance and build on each one. Interacting with present and future leaders, I examined my life goals and considered the societal issues I want to address. The fellowship not only widened my view of my own career choices but also encouraged me to reflect on my role in society’s shared problems. I am now committed to drawing from my experiences to continue exploring, learning, and challenging myself to affect change.

The 2045 Fellowship provided me with precious time to reflect deeply on societal issues and collaborate on solutions, even amid a busy schedule. Years of preparing for employment and entering the workforce naturally dulled my awareness of social problems. The fellowship helped me rekindle this awareness and focus on solutions through monthly lectures from leaders in politics, society, and economics, and by connecting with peers who share similar concerns. The fellowship granted me invaluable assets: insights, innovative solutions I would never have thought of alone, and the companionship of peers dedicated to enacting change. Moving forward, I am committed to maintaining this focus on social issues.

The 2045 Fellowship imparted three core values to me. First, through the fellowship, I found my true aspirations. Before joining, my goal was simply to secure a good job with a high salary. However, through deeply exploring social issues and working with others on solutions, I discovered a purpose that aligned with my life’s direction. Meeting professionals dedicated to societal change showed me that my ambition extends beyond career success. I now have a personal aim to create social value and foster positive impact. Second, I gained practical experience in problem-solving and learned foundational methods for addressing root causes of social issues. Through defining social issues, identifying their origins, and proposing solutions, I acquired both the technical skills and the mindset needed for effective analysis and solutioning. This kind of hands-on learning is unique to the fellowship, which provides a valuable opportunity to engage deeply with real-world problems. Lastly, I learned the importance of collaboration. We explored societal issues over an extended period, developed solutions, and faced challenges together. This taught me the strength of working as a team and gifted me with lifelong allies who share the vision of making a meaningful impact.