First Steps as a Researcher — 2025 Fall Semester Graduate Orientation, Department of Business Administration 

Korea University’s Graduate School of Business Administration held its 2025 Fall Semester Graduate Student Orientation on Monday, July 28, at Room 432, LG-POSCO Hall. The orientation was designed to provide new graduate students with essential academic information and guidance on the research environment, supporting them in planning their future academic journey. 

The event began with opening remarks by Professor Dae Il Nam, Chair of the Department of Business Administration. Professor Nam introduced himself as a researcher specializing in business strategy and startups, and said, “Our department offers one of the best research environments in the country, and I hope you take pride in conducting your research here.” He went on to say, “Since you have made the significant decision to pursue graduate studies, I hope you will find a research topic that truly excites you.” 

The orientation program then officially began. The session included an overview of the department’s organizational structure, introductions of the heads of each major, as well as guidance on the curriculum, course registration, and domestic academic exchange programs. 

In addition, the session provided detailed guidance on essential aspects of graduate student life, including graduation requirements such as the comprehensive examination, foreign language proficiency test, and thesis submission qualifications; academic procedures such as the application and change of academic advisors; scholarship and research funding opportunities; participation in the BK21 program; and the use of academic databases. 

The session concluded with basic announcements, including Korea University Business School and Graduate School websites, the university portal and research portal, research lab and locker assignments, and student ID issuance. 

After the general orientation, students were divided into their respective majors for separate orientations. Through this program, new students received detailed information on their major curriculum, key research areas, and plans for their future studies and careers.

One new student remarked, “Graduate school life used to feel vague, but today’s orientation made it much clearer,” adding, “While I feel a bit nervous as I am just starting out, I am also excited to embark on a new journey of learning and research.” 

This orientation served as the first official event to guide new students on their journey as researchers in business administration and to share essential information for their graduate studies. 

Participants celebrated the start of their graduate journey by sharing their expectations for future research and academic endeavors.