2020 겨울학기
Suhena Mehra, 연세대학교 국제학대학원

Hello, my name is Suhena Mehra and I am majoring in Korean Studies at the Yonsei Graduate School of International Studies.

I came to know about the East Asia Institute (EAI) through my university peers who had previously interned here. Their social media posts showcasing their internship experiences made me interested in the EAI work environment. Research being my field of interest, it seemed to be perfect place for me to gain an internship experience.

During the fifteen weeks that I worked at EAI, I was able to form valuable connections with expert industry researchers and gain insight into the organizational processes of a prolific South Korean think tank. I was able to support two seminars and aid in ground level editing, designing, data collection and organizational processes. I feel proud to know that my small contributions have been part of the building blocks that make up EAI’s monumental projects.

I also got the opportunity to learn from my fellow interns and bond with each one of them over delicious lunches and coffee breaks. The work environment at EAI allowed us to explore new skills and take on new challenges, while also having fun. Ms. Younghyun Lee, Project Manager of the EAI Internship program curated a stimulating yet flexible internship experience for us, for which I am very grateful.

As the Editor in Chief of the Yonsei GSIS magazine on international affairs, NOVAsia, I have a penchant for researching and writing about influential issues. My mentor Ms. Sea Young Kim recognized my abilities and desire to contribute in this way and gave me the opportunity to conduct primary research on Korean identity. This project became my primary task, and it was an absolute pleasure to work with Ms. Kim, who is an excellent editor, writer and researcher. I feel extremely grateful for her to have given me this opportunity as it will remain a significant accomplishment for me to look back on for years to come. 

I would like to thank each and every one at EAI for providing me with such a warm and inviting work environment. I will remember my time at EAI fondly.

Thank you.