My New Horizon

At 20 years old, I stand at a crossroads—no longer confined by the narrow corridors of Korea's exam-driven education system, but finally free to explore the vast, complex world around me. For most of my early years, life revolved around a single goal: the College Entrance Exam (수능). This singular focus left little room for curiosity, for understanding the intricate tapestry of global events and emerging technologies.

A conversation with my father became a pivotal moment in my journey. When I was feeling lost and uncertain about my future, he mentioned programming—a spark that would gradually ignite my passion. Encouraged by his support, I began exploring this new world, discovering languages like Python and HTML.

Programming became my gateway to a broader understanding. I discovered something miraculous—not just lines of code, but beautiful, elegant structures that reflect human creativity. Each programming concept was like a small window into a larger world of logic and innovation.

The moment the exam ended was transformative. Suddenly, the world opened up. I realized how much I had been missing—the nuanced global narratives, technological revolutions, and interconnected social dynamics that were constantly unfolding. From technological breakthroughs in AI to complex geopolitical shifts, I began to see how different fields intertwine and drive societal progress.

This awakening is more than just personal growth; it's a critique of an educational system that often limits young people's perspectives. Before the exam, we're taught to focus narrowly, to memorize and compete. But life, I'm learning, is about so much more—about understanding, exploring, and connecting dots across different domains.

Programming has become more than a skill—it's a metaphor for my newfound approach to life. Just as code requires creativity, logic, and an understanding of complex systems, so does understanding our world. Each line of code is a small act of creation, a way of solving problems and seeing possibilities.

To my peers feeling trapped or uncertain: there's a world beyond the exam, beyond the immediate pressures. Stay curious. Look beyond the prescribed path. Discover your own windows to understanding—whether through technology, art, science, or any passion that sparks your imagination.

My journey is just beginning. I'm no longer the student defined by a single exam, but an explorer, eager to learn, to grow, and to contribute to this magnificent, complex world.