From September 24 to 26, SNU’s Academic Advising Center invited SNU alumni to share their career insights and experiences of different majors at the Yangdooseok Hall of Kwanjeong Library. Students had the chance to hear valuable guidance on how to navigate their professional journeys, being provided a blend of inspiration and practical advice.
From University Classrooms to Game Studios: The Story of Kim Min-jung and Lee Kyu-won
On the first day, co-founders of Studio Doodal, Kim Min-jung and Lee Kyu-won, took the stage and shared their entrepreneurial journey, tracing how they went from classmates to business partners. Both alumni of the Information Science and Culture Studies major, they began collaborating as students, each bringing a unique perspective to the table. Their story began not in a business school but in creative coursework and extracurricular activities.
The two met in a class called “Introduction to Information Culture Technology” in which they collaborated on a simulation-based game project. This project triggered the beginning of their professional partnership and ultimately led to the founding of Studio Doodal in December 2019. Their enterprise began in a small office but has since grown into a full-fledged game studio located near Guro Digital Complex Station. A major turning point came in 2021 when they secured a contract with Xbox and Game Pass, leading to their company’s formal incorporation.
Founders of Studio Doodal answering questions from students
Reflecting on their journey, Kim emphasized the importance of finding people with whom you share common goals and motivations. “Entrepreneurship is tough, but you learn along the way,” she said. Lee agreed, adding that students should view entrepreneurship as a way to build unique experiences, regardless of the outcome. “Even failures can contribute to personal growth and open up new opportunities,” he said.
Cho Eun-ji: Daily Challenges as a Reporter
On the second day, Cho Eun-ji, a YTN reporter, shared her experiences of being in different fields. As a passionate Physical Education major, she decided to pursue a sports-related career out in the field. This initially led her to sports journalism and later, she expanded out to other fields of journalism.
Cho Eun-ji, introducing her career path
Cho spoke about her job of reporting, which included covering sensitive issues in the Korean sports field, such as the abuse case of late athlete Choi Suk-hyun. Recalling how her report played a role in sparking public outcry on the need for reforms within the sports community, she acknowledged the critical influence of the sports reporting team in bringing about change.
Cho also pointed out that there is a unique sense of fulfillment in knowing that one's questions can contribute to social change, emphasizing that journalism provides the opportunity to be a voice for the public. She explained that asking good questions requires intense effort and daily commitment, adding, "Journalism is a profession that is evaluated daily, so be prepared for intensity." She encouraged aspiring journalists to practice critical thinking and writing regularly to sharpen their skills.
Kim Min-seon’s Journey from University to a Fashion Company: Connecting the Dots as a PM
The final session featured Kim Min-seon, a product manager at MUSINSA, who shared her winding career path in a talk titled, “Connecting the Dots—The Path of a PM Shaped by Diverse Experiences.” A Fashion and Textiles major, she explored different activities from hands-on design to marketing, joining clubs based on her broad interests.
Kim Min-seon introducing her diverse experiences
Kim eventually minored in business studies, ultimately joining LF Corporation as an intern and transitioning into MD. Her time at LF allowed her to engage deeply in product planning, live broadcasting, and sales success. However, she yearned for a more strategic role and moved on to VIEWORKS, where she managed long-term business projects. After moving to MUSINSA, she now blends her project management skills and product expertise to oversee product strategies.
Kim emphasized the importance of reflecting on one’s past experiences in making career decisions. “Each experience, no matter how disconnected it may seem, has a way of shaping your future career,” she said.
Students participating in the lecture on career insights and majors
Through these sessions, students gained a deeper understanding of how diverse experiences and interdisciplinary approaches can shape careers. Each speaker’s journey, whether in game development, journalism, or project management, highlighted the importance of embracing flexibility, pursuing passions, and continually challenging oneself. Students eager to explore various career paths and majors can visit the SNU Academic Advising Center for further guidance and inspiration on shaping their futures.
Written by Jeemin Suh, SNU English Editor, jiminasuh@snu.ac.kr