“70% social and 30% business”, is the way host Seonyoung Park described her reasons for attending KOTESOL events. This year, there was actually quite a bit more business than usual. In past years the chapter has either held entirely “game” outings or nothing at all for the months of January and February. There is a keen desire by membership to keep momentum from 2023 alive and moving forward. Members, a couple visitors, and kids in attendance totaled over 20 by the end of the event. They all followed Teacher Park’s mantra and took care of business – the business of having fun. Regardless of the focus, playing games or socializing, there’s always a warm smile, an open seat, and a good time at our chapter activities.
Playing games, welcoming new friends, catching up with past connections were the priorities but the big news was the completion of an election. For the kids in attendance, they got right to the highlight of the afternoon. Games were out and underway as people made their way to the 5th floor location, Pumpkin Language Academy. One of the first requirements of any event, and an important way the YoKo team shows hospitality, is through jovial banter. Lots of jokes and puns immediately during the introductions! This way of meeting and greeting started as the clock struck 2 p.m. Names, hometowns, basic backgrounds and general desires for professional development were shared around a nicely organized café area. Then, the executive moved over to a slightly more formal arrangement and took care of two important matters: voting on constitutional changes and finalizing the election results.
After discussions, decisions, and declarations were made, the group took pictures and started playing more rounds of various games. Wrapping up at around 5 p.m., some chose to go out to dinner afterwards and others headed home. Everyone left feeling a bit more relaxed and ready to start the rest of 2024.
How about you? What are you considering for the remainder of 2024? Hopefully you know you are invited to attend events and contribute ideas for the chapter. Reach out to us at our email or by visiting our social media groups.
