In-Hyouk Song
Chapter President of KSEA Austin TX
On November 2, 2024, the KSEA Austin TX Chapter organized a fall picnic that brought together around 70 attendees, even though rain was expected. This event, hosted for existing KSEA members, their families, and individuals interested in joining, showcased the Chapter’s vibrant community spirit and dedication to connecting professionals and students in the Korean science and engineering community.
Starting with registration at 10:00 AM, participants began arriving and socializing while the anticipated rain held off. By 11:00 AM, the picnic was in full swing, with Dr. In-Hyouk Song, the KSEA Austin TX Chapter President, delivering an enthusiastic welcome speech. He expressed gratitude for the turnout and introduced the day’s schedule, setting an optimistic tone for the gathering.
The day’s activities were thoughtfully designed to engage everyone. The attendees were divided into two groups at 11:15 AM, with one group enjoying board games indoors and the other participating in outdoor activities, including soccer and frisbee. The atmosphere was relaxed and inviting, allowing participants to connect naturally and share experiences.
The picnic lunch, starting at noon, was a highlight. As attendees enjoyed their meals, they shared conversations, with more experienced members offering career insights to students. This casual setting fostered meaningful connections and facilitated discussions on career paths, academic challenges, and personal experiences in a supportive environment.
Following lunch, the Chapter leaders led a series of group games, which saw enthusiastic participation from all ages. With laughter and camaraderie filling the air, the games brought attendees closer together, fostering a sense of community that resonated with KSEA’s mission. A small awards ceremony concluded the games, recognizing winning teams and individuals with prizes that added a fun, competitive edge to the day.
As the event wrapped up, Dr. Song expressed his appreciation to everyone who had attended and shared the Chapter’s upcoming plans. He emphasized the Chapter’s ongoing commitment to expanding opportunities for professional development and community building. A raffle followed, sparking excitement among attendees as prizes were drawn. The event concluded with a group photo to commemorate the day, capturing the smiles and memories forged during the picnic.
One of the most significant successes of this year’s picnic was the addition of over 10 new members, reflecting the event’s appeal to prospective KSEA participants. Additionally, several former members renewed their memberships, marking a positive step for the Chapter’s growth and engagement. The picnic not only provided a welcoming space for networking but also demonstrated KSEA Austin TX Chapter’s commitment to fostering a strong, supportive community for professionals, students, and researchers alike. With renewed memberships and an influx of new members, the Chapter is poised for a promising future, building on the spirit of connection and collaboration that defined this memorable fall picnic.
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