Meet the Mason Nation: Mihee Cho

Name: Mihee Cho

Job: Assistant Manager for Student Involvement and Leadership Development, Mason Korea

Mihee Cho has been working at George Mason University Korea almost as long as the campus has existed. In June 2015, just one year after the campus opened, she started working as an administrative assistant in the Office of Academic and Student Affairs. Currently, Cho serves as the assistant manager of student involvement and leadership development in Mason Korea’s University Life Office, managing its daily operations and programming for students.

Time overseas. “My interest in working higher education sparked during my time as an international student in the United States,” said Cho. She earned a master’s degree in educational technology from Missouri State.

Home away from home. Joining a campus community as an international student gave Cho a unique perspective. “Being part of the campus community, both receiving assistance and offering support to fellow international students, was incredibly rewarding,” said Cho. “I discovered the value of creating a welcoming and supportive environment for students adjusting to life abroad.”

Paying it forward. Cho saw the opportunity to work at Mason Korea as a chance to share the knowledge and experiences she had gained as an international student. "I wanted to create a similar supportive atmosphere for students at Mason Korea, helping them navigate the challenges of studying in a new country and encouraging their involvement in campus life,” said Cho.

As of April 2024, approximately 1,000 undergraduate students study at Mason Korea, and 40% of them live on campus. International students compose approximately 14% of the study body.

Hearing student voices. Part of Cho’s job is ensuring that students have a dynamic campus experience. She collaborates with student involvement groups, including the Patriot Activities Council, Student Government, The Voice—the official student-run English media outlet), and n-Lingual, a student-led organization for language and cultural exchange.

Cho also assists in planning university-wide events like Mason Day and provides strengths advising as a certified strengths coach. 

Ideas always flow. Working on a university campus, Cho values the exposure to new ideas and perspectives. “Being surrounded by students, professors, and staff from diverse backgrounds fosters an intellectually stimulating atmosphere,” she said.

No two days are the same. Interacting with students, faculty, and staff from diverse backgrounds and cultures is one of Cho’s favorite parts of her job. “Being part of an international community like Mason Korea offers a rich and dynamic environment for learning and collaboration,” said Cho.

Finding her own strengths. Cho has also enjoyed the chance to expand her own skills and help students in new ways. Becoming a certified strengths coach has enhanced the support Cho can offer students as they explore their abilities and develop their leadership potential. 

Outside work, Cho enjoys traveling and listening to different genres of music. She also enjoys exploring the artsy cafes around Mason Korea’s campus.