1. Hello, Alumni Yujin Park. Could you please briefly introduce yourself first?

Hello, I'm Yujin Park, a graduate of the School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science at GIST. I received my master's degree from the Semiconductor Light Emitting Device Laboratory, and during my master's program, I conducted research on compound semiconductor growth using the MOCVD (Metal Organic Chemical Vapor Deposition) process. Currently, I am working as an ALD Technology Engineer at SK Hynix.

2. Could you introduce the main research topic you focused on during your master's program?

My research focused on the growth of GaN (Gallium Nitride) thin films using the MOCVD process. Specifically, I researched 'Remote Epitaxy'—a thin film growth technology that allows for the reuse of substrates bying 2D materials like graphene between the substrate and the epitaxial layer, leveraging the characteristics of Van der Waals bonds. This technology is highly significant as it can reduce processing costs by enabling the repeated use of expensive substrates.

3. Could you tell us about a particularly rewarding moment or memorable experience while conducting your research?

The most memorable moment was when I confirmed the uniform growth of a GaN thin film on graphene for the first time, after countless failed experiments with growth conditions. There was a particular experiment I struggled with for a long time because it wouldn't yield the desired results. Securing reproducibility and finally obtaining stable results after much trial and error was unforgettable. Because it was such a difficult problem to solve, the sense of accomplishment was immense, and the experience and confidence I gained during that process became a strong foundation for my subsequent research.

4. How did you usually relieve the stress you experienced during your master's program?

I experienced a lot of stress when experiments didn't go as planned. At times like that, I tried to step away from the lab for a bit and exercise to clear my head. Also, comfortably sharing my concerns with colleagues and senior/junior lab mates was a huge source of strength. Ultimately, I realized that graduate school is not a process you endure alone, but rather challenges you overcome together with the people around you.

5. I'm curious why you chose GIST when you decided to go to graduate school.

I had a strong interest in semiconductor devices since my undergraduate years. GIST appealed to me greatly because of its well-equipped infrastructure and facilities. Furthermore, as a small, elite graduate school, it offered the opportunity to communicate closely with my advising professor while conducting research. Because the lab size wasn't overly large, there were ample opportunities to directly use experimental equipment, and the environment allowed me to proactively lead the research I wanted to pursue. This was the biggest reason I decided to enroll.

6. I'd like to ask about your overall impressions after actually experiencing graduate school life at GIST.

It was an even more satisfying graduate school experience than I had expected. In particular, the ability to directly handle state-of-the-art equipment for my research was a great asset. Because the campus is relatively compact, there were also many natural opportunities to interact with students from other majors. Of course, given the nature of research, there were tough times, but looking back, the problem-solving skills and perseverance I developed through that process are incredibly helpful in my current corporate life.

7. Could you offer some advice to undergraduate students or prospective graduate students who are currently considering applying to GIST graduate school?

Before deciding to enter graduate school, I highly recommend thinking deeply about what specific research area you truly want to pursue. If there is a lab you are interested in, contacting them in advance to grasp the lab's atmosphere and research direction is also very helpful. Additionally, I want you to remember that in graduate school, you learn much more from the process than from the final results. I believe the most important thing is having an attitude of continuously moving forward without fearing failure.

8. Do you have any goals you would like to achieve in the future in terms of your research or career?

Currently, as an engineer, I am building practical experience in actual semiconductor mass production processes. I believe that as semiconductor technology becomes increasingly advanced, more opportunities will open up. One of my goals is to actively participate in this wave of change while discovering and building my own specialized career path.

9. Finally, is there anything else you would like to freely share with juniors or readers?

Graduate school is demanding, but I believe it is a valuable time that allows for tremendous personal growth. If anyone reading this is currently hesitating, I encourage you not to be afraid and to boldly challenge yourself in the field you are passionate about. I will be rooting for you. Thank you.