1. What made you come to Korea?
During my stay in Frankfurt, I seized the opportunity to embark on an exchange program. As someone with a deep-rooted fascination for East Asian culture, particularly Japan and Korea, I often found myself entranced by their movies and dramas. There was a distinct feeling that I could connect with these cultures and their people, which ignited a burning desire within me to experience life in either Korea or Japan.
This unwavering passion led me to apply for an exchange student program. This marked the pivotal moment in my life when I decided to venture to Korea for the very first time.
Upon arriving in Korea, I was welcomed into the buddy program at Seoul National University. There, I encountered an incredibly amicable individual who not only guided me through the intricacies of Korean life but also assisted me in opening a bank account. The kindness and support I received from the people around me left a profound impression, and it became a cornerstone of my journey to making numerous friendships within SNU.
Among the friends I made during this time, one special connection blossomed into a romantic relationship. Today, that individual is not just my friend but my loving wife, cementing an enduring bond that will forever link me to Korea.
My journey from Frankfurt to Seoul has not only been a chapter of self-discovery but also a testament to the remarkable connections that can be forged when one embarks on an adventure in a foreign land.
2. What are your goals and expectations as a professor here?
As I embark on this new chapter in my academic journey, my goals and expectations align with a blend of passion and professionalism that has characterized my research career.
Research, for me, has never been a mere job; it is a passion. The process of crafting papers, delving into complex topics, and collaborating with co-authors resonates deeply with me. I relish the intellectual challenges and the thrill of discovering new insights. My move to this institution is an exciting juncture in my career, and my intention is to continue my research endeavors with the same dedication and rigor as before.
Teaching, a significant aspect of my role here, will involve some adjustments compared to my previous experiences in the U.S. My responsibilities will include instructing MBA students, a fresh avenue for me. While the number of courses I teach may increase slightly, the core content remains consistent. I anticipate a smoother work schedule without the extensive travel to conferences and the associated time zone challenges.
What makes this transition even more promising is the support system in place. In the U.S., my family and I lacked the presence of extended family, given our international backgrounds. The absence of relatives nearby sometimes posed challenges in balancing work and family, particularly during unforeseen health-related disruptions. The prospect of hiring external help was an option we wished to avoid. However, here in Korea, we find ourselves better positioned, with family members in close proximity, ready to lend support when needed. This improved support structure should allow for more uninterrupted work, enhancing my effectiveness as a professor.
In essence, my goals are to maintain the quality and depth of my research and teaching, while my expectations involve a more balanced and efficient work-life integration. The new environment offers promising prospects to achieve these objectives.

3. Are there any specific topics you want to deal with in a lecture?
As I step into my role as a professor here, I have specific areas of interest that I hope to integrate into my lectures. Two key aspects guide my teaching approach.
Firstly, I am passionate about the intersection of finance, economics, and government interactions. This stems from my belief that knowledge can be abstract, but its real-world implementation is paramount. The process of translating economic and political theories into practical applications has always intrigued me. It's akin to deciphering the political economy―the intricate blend of economics and politics. In the upcoming MBA courses, I aim to infuse these concepts into my teaching, helping students appreciate how theory aligns with real-world decision-making processes.
Secondly, I recognize the vital role that finance plays, especially in the context of a business school closely aligned with economics. Finance maintains a strong connection to economic theory and methodologies. In an effort to bridge this gap and equip students with a more holistic perspective, I plan to introduce fundamental economic principles in my teaching. These principles will underpin their understanding of government policies, economic debates, and the broader implications of their business decisions.
While economic principles may appear basic, they form the building blocks for comprehending complex real-world scenarios. As an educator, I see it as my duty to guide students in delving deeper into these foundational principles, enabling them to apply economic reasoning to diverse situations, whether discussing rent control policies or corporate finance strategies. The infusion of economic principles into corporate finance represents an approach that I find valuable for my students' long-term intellectual growth.
In essence, my teaching goals center on creating a more holistic educational experience. While I remain committed to my research, I see the teaching environment as a space where I can infuse the fundamentals of economics into corporate finance, equipping students with a deeper understanding of the intricate relationship between theory and practice. My immediate focus remains on providing students with a robust educational foundation.


4. Do you have any last comments or advices for business school students?
As I reflect on my journey and experiences, I'd like to share some insights and advice with business school students, particularly those seeking a path in finance or corporate finance.
First and foremost, I believe that finding your true passion and aligning your career with it is key to long-term success and fulfillment. It's essential to pursue a field or profession that genuinely excites you, something that you're not only good at but also enjoy doing. Passion drives excellence, making it easier to put in the extra effort required for mastery without feeling the burden of the work. So, rather than being swayed by the trends of the moment or the allure of certain industries or companies, focus on what you love and where your strengths lie. In the long run, this will be the most significant factor in achieving success and happiness.
My path into finance and corporate finance, specifically a Ph.D. program, was not a result of a grand plan or unwavering passion from the beginning. Rather, it unfolded as I discovered my interests over time. I embarked on this journey through a series of opportunities and experiences that piqued my curiosity. I started by working on term papers that I enjoyed, which ignited my fascination with data and numbers. It was a gradual process that eventually led me to where I am today. Therefore, I advise you not to despair if you haven't yet found your true calling. Be open to trying different things and recognize that the journey towards your passion may involve exploration and experimentation.
Exploring and seeking your passion is a learning process, and it may not happen overnight. The advice I've received is to take proactive steps, rather than waiting for a moment of revelation. Apply for opportunities that interest you, even if they seem unrelated to your ultimate career goal. Through these experiences, you may discover your true passion or realize that a particular path doesn't align with your interests. The key is to remain open to change and continuous learning.
In conclusion, as you navigate your journey in business school and beyond, remember that your career should be an extension of your true self. Seek opportunities that align with your passions and skills, and be open to exploring various paths. In the long run, your commitment to what you love and excel at will be the driving force behind your success and satisfaction.