UNIST Department of Semiconductor Engineering (Samsung Electronics-Contractual Program) took a proactive role this summer in guiding regional youth toward future careers in science and technology.
Through a series of nationwide experiential programs and local science festivals, the department successfully connected cutting-edge research and technological advancements with the aspirations of young students. Since its establishment in 2023 as a Samsung Electronics-Contractual Department, UNIST has committed to sharing its educational investments and social responsibilities—aiming to nurture future talent and foster community engagement.
Youth participating in the program are wearing lab coats and experiencing photolithography experiments.
The initiative began with a three-day semiconductor-centered program from August 14 to 16, designed to establish a continuous connection to the world of semiconductors. This event hosted 75 high school students from across the country who are passionate about semiconductor science, providing them with immersive career exploration experiences curated and led by the department.
Participants started their journey with a special lecture titled “What is Semiconductors?” delivered by Professor Hanheum Park, who recently joined UNIST from Samsung Electronics. They then heard firsthand accounts from current students about life within the department, explored laboratory facilities, donned experimental gear, and experienced photolithography experiments—gaining a comprehensive view of semiconductor technology.
Interactive Q&A sessions allowed students to clarify their doubts and envision their future paths more clearly. The event gathered students from 14 high schools nationwide, along with 11 student mentors, faculty members, and staff. Many participants expressed that these hands-on activities and campus tours transformed their vague aspirations into concrete career goals.
Expanding its outreach further, the department also participated in a community event. On August 13, at the Taehwa River National Garden, the department hosted an experiential booth at the ‘2025 Ulsan Youth Activity Festival.’ Under the theme “Lighting Up Science, Changing the World through Semiconductors,” the booth drew visitors from elementary through high school, as well as local residents.
Students from the Department of Semiconductor Engineering (Samsung Electronics-Contractual Program) operated an experiential booth for citizens at the Ulsan Youth Activity Festival.
Visitors engaged with activities such as touching plasma balls to observe electric discharge and examining wafers etched with circuits thinner than a strand of hair. Interactive elements like OX quizzes, videos, and merchandise giveaways made advanced scientific concepts accessible and engaging—demonstrating that high-tech innovations can be both fun and inspiring.
This summer, UNIST Department of Semiconductor Engineering (Samsung Electronics-Contractual Program) achieved two key objectives that is to promote gifted education across the nation and to popularize science within the local community. These efforts aimed to showcase the department’s appeal to prospective students and provide meaningful opportunities for exploration and discovery.
Student mentor Shin Jin-woo, participating in the Samsung contract program, shared, “As a student in the contract department, I’m proud to give back to the community and future generations through the knowledge and experiences I have gained. I hope this inspires younger students to pursue their ambitions.”
Professor Tae-Sik Yoon, Head of the Department of Semiconductor Engineering (Samsung Electronics-Contractual Program), stated, “Sharing our advanced educational infrastructure and expertise with society is a core mission of our contract program. We hope this initiative serves as a practical compass, guiding the next generation toward promising careers in science and technology.”
