Dear Readers,

What comes to mind when I ask you about bravery? More specifically, what about your own sense of bravery? Indeed, I dare myself to pose this one final question: do you have any said bravery to speak of?

In asking these questions I do in fact intend to provoke you, dearest readers. I feel that the “spirit of adventure,” of stepping out of your usual routine and out of your comfort zone, is slowly drained from you during the time spent at KAIST; in trudging through endless workloads and assimilating to your scholarly surroundings, you become somewhat tame and apathetic. I cannot criticize someone for his diligence and devotion to something as potentially rewarding and highly regarded as research or academics. We all want to eventually become capable people and find happiness in the successes that we achieve, and for anyone whose intellect shines brighter than any of his other talents, investing his time in order to thrive and succeed in the KAISTian environment comes highly recommended.

However, no person should ever hope to devote himself entirely to his studies. Firstly, mankind was built in such a way as to need diversity in his life. Just as it is impossible for someone to stick to any single task indefinitely, being a student at KAIST cannot result in you spending every waking moment seated at your desk or toiling at the laboratory. Everyone needs a break every now and then. And even if it were possible for human beings to spend all their time on a single task, why would one ever wish it? As far as I can see, living such a life would be no life at all, but rather some hellish substitute for it. Hobbies and other interests besides work are often entertaining, fulfilling and, if the first two do not apply, they at least lead to a more balanced lifestyle.

Now, with all pseudo-philosophical detours aside, I do realize that lacking that spirit for adventure does not necessarily equate to an unsuccessful or inferior life. The lively and reserved have their respective hobbies and both find fulfilling pastimes. However, the rewards of an adventuring spirit cannot be stressed enough; it is something that every person, regardless of his predisposition, should look to attain. By remaining within the boundary of your comfort zone, the best of opportunities will simply pass you by and go to waste. There’s uncertainty that comes with every decision in life and a first time for everything that you will do - it takes varying levels of courage to talk to strangers, to travel to new places and even to try out new food. And who knows what fantastic, unexpected consequences may come of it? You may end up having your first conversation with your soon-to-be best friend. That “strange” food you ordered from the menu may turn out to be a work of culinary genius. Your visit to a country on the other side of the world may leave you with memories to treasure forever.

I know, I know - this is all very cheesy, I do admit, but I hope you also see the point I am trying here. Simply put, be adventurous and be brave. Recognize a good opportunity when you see one and don’t ever hesitate out of speculative concerns and ludicrous worries. You know each chance might be the last of its kind, so make each and every one count.

Regards,
Jae Young Byon
Editor-in-Chief