Daemin NA, HEC Paris MBA Class of 2022
Age: 32
Hometown: Seoul, South Korea
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Sogang University, BA in French Culture and BEc in Economics (Double Degree)
Pre-MBA Work Experience (years, industry): 6 years’ experience in project procurement and administration in EPC(Construction) industry. 3 years of field experience in the Middle East and North Africa.
Why business school? Why now?
While working on construction projects in many different countries, I was able to gain practical and action-oriented work experience which provided me a solid foundation. On top of this hands-on experience, I wanted to add the management and analytical skills required to be a manager who sees the big picture.
And I felt it was the right time because I had enough professional experience to make the most out of a business-school program.
Why HEC? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
HEC is a top-ranked business school in the world and has been a leading institution in France for more than a century. Having majored in French Culture, I studied in Paris for a while and also had opportunities to use the French language at work. Considering HEC’s outstanding reputation as well as my strong interest in the region, HEC seemed like the perfect place for me to prepare for a new career. Also, I think HEC’s 16-month program is an ideal time to learn management skills without being too far away from the real business world.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2022?
Construction sites are places where all kinds of management decisions ultimately materialize. And people at construction sites have to deal with many kinds of unexpected problems to make this happen.
Having experienced both the headquarters and the work sites, I was able to understand the difficulties people encounter and have a practical approach to problem-solving. I’ll be glad to share my experience with my classmates while learning a lot more from them.
Additionally, I’m the only Korean in my intake, contributing to the diversity of the program.
Fun fact that didn’t get included on your application?
I lived in a container box in the desert for around 2 years. Sometimes I went hiking to the nearby sand dunes with my colleagues. It was literally a “hot” period in my life.
Post-MBA career interests?
I’m interested in the infrastructure development business and also interested in the energy sector. I’m also exploring other industries and open to new opportunities.
Advice to current prospective applicants:
–One thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
I would attend again (or virtually) the 1-to-1 meeting with HEC personnel and the campus visit. Before applying to HEC, I flew all the way from Seoul to Paris to attend. It helped me to make the right decision.
–One thing you would change or do differently?
I would do my interview differently. The interview guidelines advised us to avoid repeating any information already written in the application, but I did a presentation about my work experience. Fortunately, I’m here, but I probably should’ve picked a different subject.
–Part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
GMAT preparation was painful. Along with a GMAT prep school, making notes about my wrong answers while practicing for the test helped me a lot to get through it.
What is your initial impression of HEC’s students/culture/community?
All the people including students and professors I’ve met here are very smart, proactive, and very open to other people and cultures. Their diverse backgrounds and stories make classes more interesting. Professors give us insights and students are always ready to share their opinions. I like this enthusiastic environment. And I appreciate the efforts of the professors and staff members to give us the best experience during this difficult time.
One thing you have learned about HEC that has surprised you?
The campus is really amazing. It’s kind of surreal being on this campus. Its large forest and beautiful lake provide me with the perfect setting when I need a moment to relax.
Thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
The 2nd lock-down starts tonight in France. We have to get through this difficult moment all together.
Thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I am excited about learning from various courses and finding new career opportunities. And also I’m really looking forward to meeting my classmates again in the classroom and having dinner with them in a Parisian restaurant after the lock-down.
