Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU) produces numerous international alumni every year. Professor Mansoo Yu is a pioneer in this aspect. After majoring in Social Welfare at SKKU and studying at Washington University in St. Louis, Professor Mansoo Yu currently works at the University of Missouri. The Sungkyun Times (SKT) now introduces Mansoo Yu, a professor dedicated to teaching and research.
Mansoo... Who?
Q1. Please introduce yourself.
Hello, I am Mansoo Yu. I was accepted to SKKU in 1992 and majored in Social Welfare. Currently, I am a professor at the University of Missouri (Mizzou), teaching Social Welfare and Public Health. At Mizzou, I am also a member of the Diversity Committee, and serve as the director of the Center for Children and Families Across Cultures. Additionally, I am a board member of the Cambio Center and manage the faculty-led study abroad programs in both Greece and Korea.
Q2. What is your favorite memory from your time at SKKU?
When I revisited the school, I felt that the sight of Daeseongro brought back memories of my days at the university. Walking up Daeseongro, I experienced the same joy and excitement that had accompanied my first visit to the campus as a freshman. Those emotions seem to have persisted even after graduation. The scene of Daeseongro with the ginkgo trees on both sides is one of the only unchanged aspects of SKKU, and it made me especially nostalgic.
Q3. What motivated you to pursue further studies abroad?
During my time at SKKU, Social Welfare studies were not mainstream in South Korea. Thus, I felt the need to study in the United States (U.S.) to satisfy my curiosity. Just as I was completing my undergraduate program, the International Monetary Fund financial crisis struck, making it difficult for me to go abroad. Fortunately, Washington University in St. Louis (WashU), where I pursued my master’s degree, understood my situation and deferred my admission for two years. In the meantime, I continued my studies in a domestic graduate school since I wanted to explore my academic interests further until I could leave for the U.S.
The Journey of Professor Mansoo Yu
Q4. What process did you go through to become a professor?
I know that it might sound cliché, but I started by studying. Becoming a professor means you must dedicate your entire career to learning, so I tried to enjoy the process. Additionally, when I studied in the U.S., I put in much effort to understand various American cultures. I believe that trying to understand the culture is just as vital as studying when studying abroad. I came to the U.S. in 2000, and I feel like I still have more to learn about it.
Q5. Do you have any tips on overcoming the challenges of studying abroad?
Two main factors have helped me endure my time studying abroad. The first factor is gratitude. I always tried to remind myself that I was doing something I wanted and chose to do. The second one is persistence. If you stop your daily routine, it takes a long time to get back on track. This is why I have been working on everything little by little every day from my student days until now.
Q6. You seem to have a lot of affection for Mizzou. What aspects of it do you like the most?
To me, Missouri is a second home. I received my master’s and doctoral degrees at WashU, Missouri, and have worked there ever since. I have spent over 20 years in Missouri. I especially like the campus of Mizzou as it is home to a unique and beautiful atmosphere, unlike other public universities.
Q7. Is there a reason you are so involved in the study abroad program at Mizzou?
One thing I have noticed while working as a professor is that over half of the American students have never traveled abroad. As a professor teaching Social Welfare and Public Health, I thought it was crucial for these students, who will eventually work with those in need, to gain experience in diversity. With the U.S. having such a diverse background, I believe that experiencing the power of diversity is extremely important.
Q8. What motivates you to keep up your active presence in research?
It is probably my curiosity. Research often leads me to new questions, forming a cycle of starting new research. Another factor is my desire to contribute to society through research. As a researcher, I hope that my work can be used to help those in need. Lastly, numerous students and fellow researchers also motivate me. Sharing ideas through collaboration leads me to educational growth and productivity.
Q9. You have taught in SKKU's International Summer Semester (ISS) program for two consecutive years. What is it like to be a professor back at your home university?
It is an indescribable feeling. Over the 20 years since my graduation, I believe that I grew distant from SKKU — however, returning to SKKU for the ISS program has closed the gap again. As I strolled up Daeseongro to teach my course, it was as if my long-held dream of returning to SKKU as a professor was finally being fulfilled. I think that was part of why all the classes I taught in the ISS program seemed to fly by in the blink of an eye.
Q10. Could you share a memorable experience with your students from the ISS program?
After the end of the ISS, a Singaporean student personally told me something that struck me. She told me that the process of discussing gender inequality and finding solutions to it came as a shock to her, as it is very normalized in Singapore. She also told me that she was now returning to her country with new insights on how to address these issues. As an educator, I think it is one of the greatest gifts I have ever received.
Q11. It seems that you value student interactions highly. Is there a reason behind this?
A professor cannot exist without students. Without a deep understanding of students, there is a risk that what I teach may not resonate with their interests. This is why I value interaction, as I want to know students’ educational interests. To effectively tailor my teaching methods and create opportunities for mutual learning, I must grasp what my students want. The most fulfilling time as a professor is when my students are satisfied and successfully apply what they have learned in class.
Mansoo... to You!
Q12. What kind of legacy do you hope to leave as a scholar?
A student once told me that taking my class was his best choice. Hearing that gave me a lot of confidence. Hence, I would like to be remembered as a professor who provides fulfilling classes through communication. Meanwhile, I aspire to be recognized as a scholar who left a mark in the field. Even if I cannot make a significant impact on social welfare or public health as a whole, I hope at least to leave a mark on my specific area of interest.
Q13. What advice would you give to Kingos who want to build a career like yours?
During my school days, I was never an outstanding student. However, since students these days are so capable, I want to say that you can achieve anything — because I did it, too! However, I hope Kingos will not be afraid to face challenges and pursue international experiences. Start by setting your goals, prepare for them, and then expand those goals by communicating with various people internationally to realize your full potential.
Q14. Do you have anything you would like to say to the Kingos?
The most important thing is to think big. Looking back on my life, things I thought were the best at the time were not necessarily the best. Instead of compromising with the present, expand your perspective and think big. Then, the failures and disappointments will become powerful engines that lead you to a point where you won’t regret your choices. I am confident that if you, my beloved Kingos, put in the effort, you will be able to achieve your goals.