The University of Utah Asia Campus Career & Internship Development Center, in collaboration with other IGC institutions—Ghent University, SUNY Korea, and George Mason University—launched the 2024 IGC Career Buildup School, a two-day immersive career development program held in Gangnam, Seoul. Designed to bridge the gap between students and real-world industry experience, the program provided a unique blend of lectures, mentoring, and company visits aimed at preparing students for Korea’s fast-changing job market.
Day 1 – November 22:
The program kicked off with an inspiring opening lecture, setting the tone for a day filled with learning and personal growth. Students participated in small-group mentoring sessions led by leading professionals from high-impact sectors such as biotechnology, artificial intelligence, and personal branding. These sessions allowed students to gain practical tips on standing out in competitive recruitment processes, while also exploring current and emerging industry trends. The intimate format encouraged open dialogue and personalized advice, helping students clarify their career goals and strategies.
Day 2 – November 29:
One week later, students reconvened for an even more hands-on experience. The day began with a tour of AmorePacific’s headquarters, offering participants an exclusive look inside one of the world’s top cosmetic conglomerates. Beyond learning about the brand’s innovation in beauty and wellness, students received career advice directly from AmorePacific professionals, making the visit both informative and inspiring.
The second half of the day featured a visit to Amazon Web Services (AWS) Korea, where students explored one of the most influential tech companies in the world. The special lecture at AWS offered insights into the future of cloud computing, digital transformation, and global tech careers. Touring AWS’s high-tech facilities allowed students to connect abstract classroom knowledge with real-world application.
Throughout both days, the 2024 IGC Career Buildup School empowered students to think beyond the classroom, equipping them with the knowledge, confidence, and professional awareness necessary to navigate today’s global workforce. The CIDC was proud to co-host this initiative and looks forward to continuing to provide students with high-impact career development experiences.
