About Me
My name is Jeffy Zhao, and I am currently a rising junior at the University of Pittsburgh’s School of Business Administration, pursuing a double major in Business Analytics and Business Information Systems. I’ve always viewed myself as a logical thinker—someone who carefully observes before taking action. My early work experience in a restaurant helped shape my strong work ethic, instilling in me a drive for success in the business world while also fostering an appreciation for the ever-evolving nature of technology.
I’ve always been drawn to the idea of continuous learning, believing that growth is an ongoing process rather than a destination. Whether it’s researching an unfamiliar topic or stepping into an entirely new environment like Seoul, I approach every experience as an opportunity to expand my knowledge and perspective. The ways industries adapt and evolve have always fascinated me, and I enjoy exploring how people navigate challenges in both professional and technological spaces.
Outside of academics and work, I deeply value the time I spend with friends and family. Their support and influence have played a significant role in shaping me both personally and professionally. In my free time, I would describe myself as paradoxical—I enjoy being active and could spend an entire day on the move, yet I also appreciate quieter moments, whether that’s playing video games, watching movies, or catching up on shows. I embrace both ends of the spectrum, finding balance between high-energy days and moments of relaxation.
Beyond my personal interests, I constantly seek new challenges. Whether it’s stepping outside my comfort zone, embracing a new experience, or learning a skill that once seemed intimidating, I’m always looking for ways to push myself and grow.
Why Seoul?
There are many reasons why I’ve chosen Seoul as the destination for my internship. I could highlight the city’s incredible innovations and vast opportunities in the fields of information technology and electronics. I could also emphasize how its rich culture—through food, traditions, and entertainment—has always intrigued me. But beyond these reasons, Seoul represents a unique environment where I can grow both professionally and personally, immersing myself in a dynamic, fast-paced setting that challenges me to adapt and evolve.
Seoul is a global hub for technology, business, and innovation. The prospect of gaining firsthand experience in an international workplace while embracing a culture entirely different from my own is incredibly exciting. I hope not only to sharpen my professional skill set but also to broaden my perspective on global business practices and cross-cultural collaboration.
Professional Goals
During my time in Seoul, I aim to refine my skill set, gain invaluable experience in a professional setting, and cultivate personal growth. Through my work, I’ll have the chance to develop essential skills such as communication, teamwork, adaptability, and problem-solving—skills that hold value across industries.
The company I’ll be working with specializes in a niche industry (which I’ll expand on below), yet I am confident that the experience will be beneficial in providing insights into an important sector of business. I plan to fully engage with my coworkers, learning from their expertise while also building relationships that will contribute to a global professional network.
Beyond my career ambitions, I am eager to grow on a personal level. Spending two months in Seoul offers an incredible opportunity to immerse myself in a new environment, embrace unfamiliar experiences, and make the most of each day. I hope to challenge myself by meeting new people, learning from them, and taking full advantage of everything this journey has to offer.
Company Information
I will be working with EcoLinks, an Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG)-focused company committed to making clean energy and water accessible to all. While the main team operates in Seoul, EcoLinks also has teams working in Cameroon and Ghana, addressing key issues such as rising energy demands and harnessing abundant natural resources to create sustainable solutions.
Although my majors center around analytics and technology, I am excited to work with a company that prioritizes sustainability and social impact. In today’s business landscape, corporate social responsibility plays a growing role, and gaining firsthand experience in an ESG-focused company will provide me with valuable insights that extend beyond traditional business analytics.
Companies across industries integrate environmental initiatives into their operations, whether through reducing carbon footprints, improving resource efficiency, or driving community development. EcoLinks offers a unique opportunity for me to understand how businesses navigate sustainability while maintaining profitability—a crucial skill in today’s evolving market.
Regardless of the industry I ultimately pursue, this internship will provide me with foundational knowledge that will undoubtedly be useful in my future career. I look forward to learning from professionals who tackle global challenges and exploring the intersection between business, technology, and sustainability.
Final Thoughts
This internship in Seoul represents more than just an opportunity for professional growth—it is a chance to challenge myself, expand my perspectives, and embrace new experiences. I hope to develop skills that will shape my career while also forming meaningful connections that extend beyond business.
Whether it’s learning a new approach to problem-solving, developing confidence in a global work environment, or discovering hidden gems in the city, I know these two months will be a transformative experience. I am eager to embark on this journey and make the most of everything it has to offer!