OWL Magazine Korea

“Stories of a University President for College Students” by Heo Nam-oh

The author, born in Jinju, received his law doctorate from Dong-A University after attending Jinju Middle/High School. He then passed the Administrative Higher Examination and served as the chief of Jinju, Yeongam, and Seoul Dongbu Police Stations, as well as a presidential secretary, the director of the Seoul Regional Military Manpower Administration, and the president of Jinju International University. His major works include “Stories of a University President for College Students,” “Jinjuseong,” “Danwon Kim Hong-do: A New Legend of Warfare, 3 Volumes,” “How Do You Know the Grapes Are Sour,” “Korean Police System History,” and “In Search of Environmental Legal Philosophy.”

I came across this book when I was about to finish my college life. As I prepared for job hunting during school, finished my final exams, and awaited the results of my final job interviews, I stumbled upon this book. Since I was reading books related to the more serious aspects of job interviews, presentations, and other formalities, I wanted to take a break and read something lighter to refresh my mind.

“Stories of a University President for College Students”

As I was about to conclude my college life, I couldn’t think of a more fitting book than this one. Soon, I would transition from being a “student” to being a “working professional.”

This book is literally a message from “President Heo Nam-oh,” who served as the president of Jinju International University, to young students preparing to embark on their journey into the world. It can be said that this book offers advice that would be helpful for students who are just beginning to prepare themselves for life in the real world.

“Spirit of Challenge, Doing Your Best, Gratitude”

Therefore, the content covered in the book is similar to other self-help books. It emphasizes having a spirit of challenge, doing your best every day, and living with a mindset of always being prepared.

Overall, the narrative flows warmly, providing “advice” and introducing content that would be worth remembering as one goes through life.

“The Ten Criteria for Recognizing Talent by Headhunters”

The book briefly introduces ten criteria for recognizing talent by headhunters, some of which are as follows:

  1. Talent is someone who continually grows.
  2. Talent is someone who provides peace of mind just by being around.
  3. Talent believes in their luck.
  4. Talent likes to win.
  5. Talent is someone whose body tingles with excitement at the thought of work.
  6. Talent grasps the essentials.
  7. Talent attracts others to their vision.
  8. Talent brings other talents.
  9. Talent creates new paths.
  10. Talent thinks strategically and listens to others.

“The Eight Habits of Successful People”

Additionally, the book introduces the “eight habits of successful people,” with President Heo Nam-oh adding one more to make it “eight habits.”

  1. Take initiative.
  2. Set goals and start.
  3. Prioritize what’s important.
  4. Think win-win.
  5. Listen and understand first.
  6. Create synergy.
  7. Continuously improve.
  8. Cultivate passion and spread the fragrance of enthusiasm to others.

Apart from these, the book delivers advice in a warm tone, guiding seniors to juniors on the necessary aspects of living life. It also talks about managing relationships as a skill and encourages having the courage to face challenges in society.

Whether you are a college student or have graduated, this book can be considered helpful in living a regret-free life. For college students, experiencing a fulfilling college life is important, while for graduates, living each day without regrets is crucial. Ultimately, having a positive mindset and living a life without regrets every day are important.

“Stories of a University President for College Students”