Yunhan Lee, MPA student

Yunhan Lee

Please tell us a bit about yourself.

I am a public officer of South Korea, working at the Board of Audit and Inspection (BAI) which is a similar organisation to National Audit Office (NAO) of the UK.

What motivated you to apply for your course at Leeds?

After having worked as a public officer for 14 years, I wanted to study Public Administration academically and practically since I don’t have an academic base about public administration. The Ministry of Personnel Management of South Korea introduced me to this course and I realised that the University of Leeds is renowned for its excellence in teaching and research. So I was happy to apply to The Masters of Public Administration.

What is it that makes you passionate about your area of study?

I have been interested in learning something new. Learning something different from South Korea and talking with students across the world is pleasurable.

What aspects of the course have you enjoyed the most?

It is not easy for me to prepare for class as I have a lot of articles to read, but the course is very interesting since I can learn something related to the various public administration systems and policy operations in developed and developing countries. The opportunity to meet the English officers or the members of NGOs and listen to their empirical experience is invaluable to me.

What do you think of the facilities?

Basically all the facilities are wonderful for students to study. Especially, it is very convenient to log in and use any computer in the school - it feels like my own computer at any time. Access to all materials for the course in Minerva is helpful for me to prepare for the class.

Have you been involved in any extra-curricular activities?

I know there are many activities in the University, but I could not take part since I have to take care of my children. I took part in the trips to Scarborough and Liverpool, operated by the Students’ Union, which were good chance for my family to enjoy the United Kingdom.

What do you think about Leeds as a city?

Leeds is good to live in since it has comfortable transportation system and lots of shopping malls. In addition, I feel safe living with my family in Leeds.

What would you say to anyone thinking of applying to your course?

I will recommend them to apply because the course is worth taking and the lecturers are enthusiastic.

What are your plans for the future?

As a South Korean public officer, I am going back to my job in South Korea after finishing my course. I hope I contribute to improve Korea’s public administration and public policy though the knowledge and expertise I acquire from this course.

I can meet various students across the world in the university. The global exposure during my stay in Leeds will help me improve my knowledge about the rest of the world as well as the UK.