Seong Jae Shin, Associate Counter-Terrorism Officer for the UNODC Regional Office for Southeast Asia and the Pacific

In my current position my main responsibility is to conduct comprehensive research on crucial matters relating to terrorism and violent extremism in Southeast Asia and the Pacific region. This entails closely monitoring trends related to violent extremism, creating written content, and working with diverse stakeholders to provide critical technical support in the field of preventing and countering violent extremism (P/CVE).

During my Master's program's third semester, I interned at the UNODC Centre of Excellence, an opportunity that augmented my skills and expanded my professional network. After graduation, I shifted to a researcher position, where I gained expertise in analysing crime trends, assessing capabilities, and handling data-related tasks. Currently, I am enthusiastic about my role in the counter-terrorism program, which aligns with my passion. I credit the courses at Sciences Po for preparing me for this position. The professors provided comprehensive knowledge and shared their valuable experiences from past and ongoing work.

Several courses prepared me for this role, including those covering international law, violent extremism prevention, and counter-terrorism. These courses gave me a strong theoretical foundation, which I'm excited to apply in a practical setting. The opportunity to translate these theories into practical applications is what makes this position particularly intriguing.

My time at PSIA was both fulfilling and enriching, enabling me to build valuable relationships with individuals from diverse cultural and educational backgrounds. The dynamic environment fostered stimulating conversations and debates both in and out of the classroom, promoting my personal and intellectual development.

I recommend that current students prioritize developing skills alongside their academic achievements. They should seek internships to gain practical experience, actively build a professional network, stay informed about industry trends, and consider international opportunities to broaden their horizons. Additionally, they should embrace multidisciplinary learning, manage their time effectively, and maintain a healthy work-life balance. Students should also cultivate adaptability, resilience, and set clear goals, commit to lifelong learning, and seek mentorship. Lastly, encourage volunteering to benefit the community and society. This perspective can aid students in making informed choices and achieving success in their academic and professional pursuits.