Biology and neuroscience have always been my greatest passions, and one of my goals for the future is to help people suffering from depression.
Recently, I became interested in biotechnology as I realized it has the potential to uncover the molecular basis of mental disorders. This revelation inspired me to bridge my love for science with practical solutions that can directly impact people’s lives.
To bring this vision to life, I founded the Business Biotechnology Club at my school. The club’s mission is to explore innovative solutions at the intersection of biology and business, empowering students to design projects that address real-world challenges. We aim to create initiatives that can improve the lives of those facing medical or personal difficulties.
Outside of school, I am also the founder of Glow Girls, an online anonymous mentorship program that helps teenage girls in South Korea who face loneliness and social anxiety due to negative body image issues. Unlike professional mental health clinics, Glow Girls is free, convenient, and anonymous.
Negative body image issues are especially prevalent in South Korea. As a South Korean teen, I see this problem every day; but since it is a sensitive topic, people are a bit hesitant to solve it. So, I wanted to be the one who takes action.
Based on my research, 41.4% of teenage girls in South Korea incorrectly perceive themselves to be overweight, and the people I interviewed commonly mentioned that Korea has unrealistic beauty standards created by unrealistically thin K-pop idols.
Negative body image is a severe issue that can bring countless negative consequences. A high percentage of people who face negative body image issues have eating disorders and depression, which can also result in social anxiety as they often refuse to eat with others. This is a serious problem, especially for teens, as it can interrupt academic performance and relationships.
I am receiving a lot of positive feedback on Glow Girls, with many mentioning how they felt more comfortable discussing their innermost feelings with a peer rather than with a professional therapist. I am excited to see Glow Girls evolve into a safe space for all girls to openly talk about sensitive issues and love their bodies.
