FAQ

Frequency Asked Questions

Event Participation

  • Events are welcoming to all individuals interested in Korean culture. While anyone can participate, it's important to note that the majority of the communication during the event will be in the Korean language.

  • We welcome participants from all majors; having a STEM major is not a requirement.

  • Graduate students are welcome to join. However, before you sign up for the event, please ask via DM.

  • Some events are open to non-KSEA members, while others are exclusive to KSEA members. If you want to participate in UCD KSEA events without any exceptions, please join KSEA membership and send us!

  • You will receive program announcement emails from National KSEA once you join KSEA.

  • Stay updated by following UCD KSEA on Instagram! We regularly share information about both UCD and National KSEA events on our Instagram page. Additionally, becoming a KSEA member ensures that you receive emails from National KSEA, keeping you informed about national events.

Membership and Fees

  • It is free of charge for Undergraduate students; however, there is a $15 fee for graduate students.

  • All KSEA members are required to renew their membership every year.

Membership Benefits

  • Becoming a KSEA member offers various benefits, including access to networking opportunities, national KSEA events, and a supportive community of Korean-American scientists and engineers. It provides a platform to connect with professionals, gain insights into career paths, and stay updated on developments in your field.

  • You can take a screenshot and send it to us via Instagram Direct message

  • KSEA members can engage in various activities and events, including:
    - Annual Meeting & Technical Conference
    - National Math & Science Competition
    - Scholarships
    - Young Generation Programs
    - Career Development Programs
    - Sponsored Projects
    - Technical Evaluation and Consulting
    - Topical Symposia/Workshops
    - Science & Technology Programs for the General Public
    - Regional Programs (Technical conferences, Young generation programs, Seminars/Workshops)

  • The benefits of KSEA membership include:
    - Leadership development through committee activities and conference organization.
    - Development of a broad professional foundation by collaborating with professionals from various fields at UKC.
    - Networking opportunities with other Korean-American scientists and engineers.
    - Access to a temporary office at KSEA Headquarters in DC (nominal charges may apply).
    - Participation in technical evaluation and consulting projects.

Workshops

  • SEED stands for Scientists and Engineers Early Career Development Workshop. It is offered by KSEA and KOFST to provide mentorship and help develop the careers of junior Korean-American scientists and engineers, ranging from postdoctoral researchers to early career professionals.
    For more information, visit https://seed.ksea.org/

  • The US-Korea Conference (UKC) on Science, Technology, and Entrepreneurship promotes international collaborations among research institutes, corporate organizations, researchers, and entrepreneurs from Korea and the US. UKC 2024, themed "The Next Era of Science, Technology, and Entrepreneurship with Artificial Intelligence," will be held on August 21-24, 2024, in San Francisco, CA, USA. It features plenary sessions with experts, symposiums on future opportunities, and tech talks on AI and biopharma trends. The conference offers networking opportunities and insights into AI's impact on various scientific fields.
    For more information, visit https://ukc.ksea.org/

  • The National Math and Science Competition (NMSC), organized by the Korean-American Scientists & Engineers Association (KSEA), aims to challenge and inspire students in the fields of mathematics and science. NMSC fosters students' mathematical abilities and scientific innovation, providing a platform to elevate their proficiency and interest in these critical areas.
    For more information, visit https://nmsc.ksea.org/

  • Korean-American Mentorship and Leadership Immersion for Young Scientists and Technologists is a conference designed for Korean-American undergraduate students in STEM. It provides mentorship, leadership development, career planning, and networking opportunities.
    Katalyst aims to nurture future Korean-American leaders in STEM, preparing them for their next steps after undergraduate education, whether in academia or industry. Participants join a community of Katalyst cohorts for ongoing learning and networking.
    Participants are selected based on past achievements, leadership potential, and future aspirations, with around 50 undergraduate student leaders attending. To reduce financial burden, travel and meal support are provided for selected participants.
    For more information, visit https://katalyst.ksea.org/

  • IMPACT is a networking and development event for scientists and engineers across industries. It includes panel sessions with industry professionals, roundtable discussions on career management and progression, and networking opportunities with established Korean-American professionals. The mission is to create a support system within industries and provide practical career navigation tools.
    For more information, visit https://impacts.ksea.org/

  • STEP-UP (Science and Technology Entrepreneurship Partners’ Upscale Program) is an event organized by KSEA to promote and support entrepreneurial activities among its members and stakeholders. The 2024 event, themed “Empowering Health and Technology Innovators: Bridging the Gap between Vision and Entrepreneurial Success,” will feature success stories from startups, sessions on marketing, business laws, intellectual properties, and fundraising, as well as opportunities to pitch ventures to potential investors. The event will be held in Atlanta, GA, on April 20-21, 2024, with travel and lodging support for selected attendees.
    For more information, visit https://stepup.ksea.org/

Scholarships For Undergraduates

  • The objective is to recognize outstanding undergraduate students excelling in academics and community service, demonstrating potential as future leaders for U.S.-Korea cooperation.

  • - Recipients: 30
    - Award: $1,500 each

  • - Korean heritage undergraduate students in the US with at least 2 semesters or 3 quarters completed.
    - Major in science, medicine, engineering, or related fields.
    - Active KSEA membership.

  • 1. Curriculum Vitae or Resume (1 page PDF).
    2. Essay (600-800 words).
    3. Official Transcripts: Unofficial transcripts (PDF) can be submitted online, but official transcripts must be sent to KSEA for verification.
    4. Two Recommendation Letters: At least one from a college professor.

KSEA Honors & Awards

  • KSEA accepts nominations for Distinguished Service Membership, Distinguished Sponsor Membership, and Honorary Membership to recognize those who have contributed exemplarily to KSEA with distinction. Additionally, annual KSEA Awards honor members for outstanding contributions to KSEA, advancements in science and engineering, international cooperation, and societal welfare. Nominees must be KSEA members at the time of nomination.

For more information, please follow UCD KSEA on Instagram and feel free to ask questions via DM