Career Inspiration Series Highlights Diverse Career Pathways

Written by Lorena Meadows, Director of High School Counseling

Throughout the 2025–26 school year, Yongsan International School of Seoul welcomed a diverse group of professionals to share insights into their careers and personal journeys. Through student-led interviews and audience Q&A sessions, students explored a variety of industries and gained valuable perspectives on future career possibilities.

Matthew Shampine (September 29)
Entrepreneur and business leader Matthew Shampine (차민근) spoke with students about entrepreneurship, innovation, and leadership in a rapidly evolving global economy. He encouraged students to remain curious, adaptable, and open to new opportunities as they explore future career paths. His presentation provided valuable perspectives on professional growth and inspired students to think broadly about their goals and potential impact in the world.

Tablo (November 24)
Recording artist, lyricist, composer, and producer Tablo reflected on his journey in the music industry and reflected on experiences that shaped both his career and personal growth. Students gained insight into the realities of working in a creative field and learned how he navigated challenges throughout his career. Interviewed by Kaiden H. (12) and Seunghun L. (11), he offered thoughtful advice and encouraged students to pursue their passions with resilience and authenticity.

Roblox Korea (February 23)
Richard Chae, General Manager of Roblox Korea, and Juhyun Sung, Senior Developer Engagement Manager, shared insights into their educational backgrounds and professional journeys. During the presentation, students learned about Roblox’s global platform and its growth within the gaming industry. The speakers highlighted how Roblox empowers creators around the world and showcased several successful projects developed by South Korean students, demonstrating the opportunities available to young developers. The discussion encouraged students to explore their interests, develop relevant skills, and consider the many possibilities within the technology and gaming industries.

Sang H. Lee (April 13)
Sang H. Lee, CEO and Founder of Eigen Bio, spoke about how his experiences in investment banking and entrepreneurship eventually led him to the field of biotechnology, where he now works to advance research through artificial intelligence. Lee reflected on the challenges he encountered while building companies and explained how perseverance helped him navigate setbacks and uncertainty. Students gained insight into the realities of leadership and innovation while learning how a willingness to take risks can open unexpected opportunities.

Megan Peck Shub (May 11)
Emmy Award–winning producer, writer, and journalist Megan Peck Shub discussed her career in journalism and television production, including her work on Last Week Tonight with John Oliver. She discussed the experiences that shaped her professional journey and the challenges of building a career in a competitive industry. Interviewed by Haru L. (10) and José T., she encouraged students to stay curious and build strong professional relationships. During the question-and-answer session, Shub encouraged students to take advantage of opportunities to learn new skills and stay open to unexpected career paths.

The Career Inspiration Series highlighted the many different paths to success while giving students the opportunity to learn directly from professionals across entrepreneurship, music, technology, biotechnology, and media. Through these conversations, students gained valuable insights into the skills, experiences, and mindsets that can help shape their futures.

This year’s Career Inspiration Series showcased professionals from entrepreneurship, music, technology, biotechnology, and media, highlighting many different career pathways.

The success of the High School Career Inspiration Series over the past five years would not have been possible without the leadership and dedication of Christina Ahn, who faithfully chaired the committee throughout that time. Through her vision, organization, and commitment to connecting students with inspiring professionals, she helped create meaningful learning experiences that broadened students' perspectives and encouraged them to explore future possibilities.