On a warm February morning in 2026, the lobby of Guam’s bustling PIC Hotel was transformed from a hub of international tourism into a stage for an event that was both deeply personal and profoundly symbolic. Baekseok University, a South Korean institution renowned for its student-centered approach, hosted a unique “visiting graduation ceremony” for its graduates working overseas—an event designed for those who, due to their global careers, could not return home for the traditional commencement.
At precisely 11 a.m. local time on February 20, Baekseok University President Song Gi-shin stood before a group of young professionals clad in academic gowns instead of their usual hospitality uniforms. As reported by 중부매일 and confirmed by GOODTVNEWS, President Song personally awarded diplomas to each graduate, delivering heartfelt congratulations and encouragement. This gesture, rare and logistically challenging, was more than a ceremonial formality; it embodied the university’s philosophy of “going wherever students are,” a commitment to be a lifelong partner no matter where their paths might lead.
The origins of this event are rooted in a practical reality: many Baekseok graduates, having secured jobs in foreign countries—especially in the competitive hospitality sector—are simply unable to attend the main degree conferment ceremony in Korea. Rather than let these students’ achievements go uncelebrated, the university brought the ceremony to them. As Song Gi-shin explained during his address, “No matter where students are or what lives they lead, Baekseok University will always strive to be a lifelong companion. Visiting and encouraging students who are thriving abroad is how we realize our vision of nurturing global leaders.”
This was not just a one-off event, but part of a broader strategy that has seen Baekseok University rise to national prominence in the realm of overseas employment. According to the 2025 university information disclosure (separate disclosure 5-Da), Baekseok ranked first among all four-year universities in South Korea for the number of graduates employed overseas—a distinction it has now held for two consecutive years. The university currently has over 110 students dispatched worldwide, including to the United States and Japan, underscoring its robust international placement program.
The ceremony itself was a vivid showcase of the university’s impact. Many of the graduates honored in Guam were already excelling in their new roles, thanks to the skills and confidence gained from Baekseok’s rigorous curriculum and hands-on field training. As GOODTVNEWS reported, these young professionals, working at the front desks of Guam’s hotels, seamlessly interacted with international guests. “Adapting to a different culture was challenging,” said Heo Seong-hyun of Baekseok’s Department of Tourism, “but helping Korean guests navigate English conversations was especially rewarding.”
Others, like Son Yeon-ji, credited their professors’ encouragement and the direct, on-the-ground experience as invaluable. “The experience I gained locally will be a precious asset for my future,” she reflected. Choi Hee-woo, another graduate, noted that her third-year work experience abroad was pivotal in shaping her career aspirations, especially in hotel sales and marketing.
The value of these graduates was not lost on their employers. Hiroki Sukie, General Manager of Hilton Guam Resort & Spa, praised the Baekseok alumni for their communication prowess and cultural fluency. “Their greatest strength is their ability to speak Korean, which is a huge help as most of our guests are from Japan and Korea. When customers have questions or concerns, being able to communicate in their language makes a big difference,” Sukie explained.
Following the formal conferral of degrees, the celebration continued with a special lecture from Lee Young-hak, a Baekseok alumnus who now serves as Chief Manager at SONO International. Lee’s journey began with an internship in Guam, facilitated by the university’s overseas employment support program, and led him to managerial roles in both Vietnam and Guam. His story, shared with the new graduates, was one of perseverance and adaptability. “The field experience I gained when I first arrived in Guam became the foundation for my entire career,” Lee recounted. “The university’s systematic support and practical education made a real difference in my overseas job search and growth.”
President Song’s pride in the graduates was evident throughout the day. He lauded them for overcoming language barriers and unfamiliar environments, emphasizing that their success was a testament not only to their personal resilience but also to Baekseok’s commitment to nurturing global talent. “You have established yourselves confidently on the world stage, overcoming strange environments and language barriers. You are the true pride of Baekseok,” he declared. Song also pledged to expand local, on-the-ground support for Baekseok alumni worldwide, ensuring that the university’s “lifelong companion” philosophy is not just rhetoric but a reality for every graduate.
The event was more than just a graduation; it was a powerful affirmation of Baekseok University’s mission to empower students to thrive globally. By bringing the ceremony to Guam, the university not only celebrated its students’ achievements but also provided a valuable platform for sharing practical career advice and building a sense of community among alumni working far from home.
For the graduates, the day was a reminder that their alma mater’s support does not end at the campus gates. Instead, Baekseok’s reach extends across oceans, following its students into new cultures and industries. As the university continues to lead the nation in overseas employment, its approach offers a compelling model for how higher education can adapt to the realities of a global workforce—meeting students where they are, both literally and figuratively, and equipping them to succeed wherever they may go.
In the end, the scene at the PIC Hotel was one of celebration, gratitude, and hope—a vivid illustration of what it means to be part of a truly global academic community.