“NYU Abu Dhabi had a wealth of opportunities that I could dig through to pursue my passions, which were tackling issues in sustainability and climate action. It is sometimes difficult to feel a tangible impact of the work you’re doing when it comes to problems with such a global scope like climate change, which is why I always advise people to look at both the external and internal impact of your actions.
As the Chair of the Dining Committee in the NYUAD Student Government, I worked on initiatives to increase vegan options and reduce food waste at our dining halls. This type of work was important to me as I decided to focus on the external impact of my work on my community. These types of initiatives also have long-term impact by generating awareness and behavioral changes towards these issues
Home Region: Gunsan, South Korea
Current: Management Consultant at Guidehouse in the Energy, Sustainability, and Infrastructure Segment
Location: Abu Dhabi, UAE
Major: Economics
My internships were a way to look at the internal impact of my work. How do I progress towards self-development and curate a path that aligns with both my interests and skills? Reflecting on this question, I decided to pursue internships in think tanks to further develop my understanding of how academic research can inform policy recommendations and translate into real-life action. One of my passions remains rooted within climate justice and advocating for the rights of the people most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. As part of my internships with the Environmental Law Institute and Fiker Institute, I was able to focus my research on the current state of legal frameworks for the protection of climate refugees.
The energy landscape in this region is one of the most dynamic, as major players work towards transitioning to low-carbon sources and meeting national net-zero targets. With COP28 being hosted in Dubai this year and the overwhelming impact that the energy industry has on climate change, I wanted to be in the center of the action. My involvement and exposure to different projects at Guidehouse have been great learning experiences.
I do not have a set plan as of now, but I hope to continue my work in the field of sustainability. Whether that means pursuing a master’s degree in climate finance or environmental policy, continuing to work in industry, or shifting to academia, my future is open to so many possibilities!”