* 5th JDC Junior Journalists. Photo courtesy by JDC program.

On Sept. 7, the 5th JDC Junior Journalist program officially opened at JDC Hall. The opening ceremony was successfully held with new students, parents and foreign mentors.

The students who participated in the opening ceremony had already undergone competitive screening and the 28 were chosen from among 100. Students had to show they were passionate not only about English, but also journalism.

The JDC program is an ongoing project that nurtures global youth leaders. To quote Jeju Weekly publisher Song Jung hee, it aims to foster “International senses” among students through the promotion of Jeju. Thanks to the support of the JDC, The program has turned out about 100 young and eager journalists and the new cohort add to this past success..

During orientation, the main coodinator, Kim Jinmi introduced the initiative and divided participants into four groups to make team names and slogans. Each student was assigned to their own foreign mentors. These were Yeejin, Bethany, Elizabeth and Andrew. The mentors all have an interest in journalism and English teaching and said they looked forward to having a good time with their teams.

There were lots of unique and interesting names such as “Able,” “Jeju style,” “The Multiplayers” and “The Global Jeju Times.” Although the atmosphere was a little awkward among the new recruits, the ice was soon broken during the team meetings. With the help of former 4th Junior Journalists, students were made to feel comfortable.

The students went on to briefly present their team motos and resolutions on stage. Some students danced, and others chanted together during the presentation. Each of the speeches showed creativeness.

“The program was more exciting and more than my expectations. I obviously believe that I can be more enthusiastic about being a journalist. With this program, I hope to improve of my talents,” said Ko Hye Rim, from “The Multiplayers.” She said that she was satisfied already even though it was just the first day of the program.

The students will now engage in 10 various field trips, including this opening orientation. They will explore, cover and look into Jeju as a Jejuian and as a global leader from Sep. 9 to Jan. 18. This process will help them immerse themselves in journalism, Jeju and the English language.