- Anyang Foreign Language High School (Graduated in March 2008)
- School of International Liberal Studies, Waseda University (Graduated in Mar 2012)
- Goldman Sachs Tokyo/Seoul, (March 2012~July 2015)
- UBS Securities (August 2015~May 2018)
- KB Securities (May 2018~April 2020)
- Master’s Degree in Gifted Education, Seoul National University of Education (from September 2025～)
― Please tell us your time at SILS.
My name is Jungmin Kwon, and I graduated from the School of International Liberal Studies (SILS) at Waseda University in 2012. Prior to enrolling at SILS, I studied at Osaka International School in Japan and Anyang Foreign Language High School in Korea.
During my undergraduate years, I actively engaged in various extracurricular and academic opportunities. I was a dedicated member of student club (サークル) named Waseda International Festival (WIF), through which I organized performances and collaborated closely with peers from diverse backgrounds. In 2010, I studied abroad at the University of Virginia through the SILS exchange program. Upon returning to Japan, I received a full-time offer from Goldman Sachs Japan at the 2011 Tokyo Career Forum, which marked the beginning of my career.
― Please tell us your career history & current engagement.
Following graduation, I worked at Goldman Sachs in both Tokyo and Seoul, and later at UBS, gaining experience across multiple international markets.
The skills and mindset I developed at SILS—such as working across cultures and thinking flexibly—were essential in my finance career. Even When I returned to Korea and worked at a local securities firm, the Waseda name gave me confidence and a strong alumni network.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, I took a career break to focus on raising my child. This period allowed me to reflect on what I truly enjoy and led to a deep interest in the field of education, especially in Interdisciplinary Education. At present, I am engaged in teaching elementary school students and will begin a master’s program at Seoul National University of Education this September.
―What do you think about the appealing point and strength of SILS？
One of the most distinctive features of SILS is its flexible, interdisciplinary curriculum. Studying a broad range of subjects encouraged intellectual curiosity and the ability to embrace unfamiliar subjects with confidence. This academic versatility has continued to serve me well, both in the finance industry and in my current transition into the field of education.
SILS also provided a truly international learning environment. I was fully integrated into campus life—joining student club (サークル), enrolling in courses across departments, and building friendships with both Japanese and international students. These experiences cultivated adaptability, leadership, and intercultural communication skills, all of which became key strengths in my life.
― Any message to our prospective applicants?
I strongly encourage current and future students to proactively engage with peers from diverse backgrounds. These experiences will not only strengthen your interpersonal skills but also help you develop a global mindset.
Furthermore, in addition to the valuable experiences you’ll gain through SILS, I recommend exploring opportunities throughout the wider Waseda campus. Participate in university-wide initiatives, explore cross-disciplinary interests, and build a strong personal and professional network. The breadth and depth of experience available at Waseda University are truly unique—make the most of them to shape both your academic and professional journey.
This content is as of the time of issuance.
