With a network of around 750 Fellows from 95 countries, the Atlas Corps family is growing every day. It is time to look back and to showcase the achievements of our amazing Alumni. Today we want to talk with our Alumna Hae Soo Park (Class 14, South Korea, Host: InterAction).
Name: Hae Soo Park
Hometown: Seoul, South Korea Current Organization: KOICA – Korea International Cooperation Agency Role at current organization: Health Sector Manager Social Issue have you worked with: Zero hunger, Good health and well-being, Quality education |
How has Atlas Corps contributed to your professional accomplishments?
I always consider Atlas Corps as my turning point in my career. The exposure to InterAction’s diverse portfolio and colleagues working on humanitarian aid issues inspired me to choose my current career, where I work with the Korean ODA agency in Ghana.
How has Atlas Corps contributed to your personal accomplishments?
Personal accomplishment would definitely be my network of fellows. Not only they are good friends, but also your advisors and mentors. I’ve worked several times with Sook Hee, my fellow classmate. She is considered a Ghana expert in Korea, and when I was involved in projects in Ghana, I had to borrow her expertise. We traveled in parts of Ghana together for work, but had the best time.
As an Atlas Corps Alumni, how are you a better social change leader?
Apart from global health issues, another passion of mine is rights for the LGBTQ community. I was definitely in the right place to learn more about the issue, and I would like to say I’ve become a better advocate and supporter.
What is your favorite Atlas Corps memory?
I really cannot choose one memory because the whole year has been fantastic for me. But if I had to, it would be when I and other Korean fellows hosted Korean Food Day at our house on Warder St. I always love to cook for friends, and this was a moment where I was able to introduce Korean food to friends from around the world.
What advice do you have for applicants and incoming Fellows?
Take the leap. I believe many people would be hesitant with whichever reasons they have – job security, living conditions, cultural adjustment, etc. However, I personally think any experience – good or bad – makes a person stronger and wiser. It’s worth taking the risk.
More about Atlas Corps
Atlas Corps partners with mission-driven organizations (nonprofit, private, and government) to facilitate a professional exchange program for the world’s best emerging social change leaders to live and serve in the United States for a 12-month Fellowship. The Atlas Corps network currently includes more than 750 professionals from 95 countries who have served at 300 organizations.
Interested in becoming our Fellow? Apply now at apply.atlascorps.org.