Global Korea Scholarship Master's Graduate Hajiyev Sarkhan from Azerbaijan Shares His Journey of Studying Advanced Materials at POSTECH, South Korea

My name is Hajiyev Sarkhan, and I am from Shemkir, Azerbaijan. My academic journey has been shaped by a strong belief that education and technological innovation are powerful drivers of national and global development.

I completed my Bachelor’s degree at Khazar University in Azerbaijan, where I built a solid foundation in engineering and developed a strong interest in advanced materials and research. Motivated to expand my expertise in a globally competitive environment, I sought opportunities abroad.

In 2020, I was awarded the Global Korea Scholarship (GKS), a prestigious and fully funded program sponsored by the Korean government. Receiving this scholarship marked a defining milestone in my academic career and opened the door to world-class research opportunities in South Korea.

The GKS Language Year (2020–2021)

As part of the scholarship program, I completed a one-year intensive Korean language course at Pai Chai University in Daejeon from 2020 to 2021.

This period was transformative both academically and personally. Beyond language acquisition, I developed adaptability, resilience, and cultural awareness while adjusting to a new academic system and environment. I successfully achieved TOPIK Level 3, which enabled smoother integration into graduate studies and professional life in Korea.

Master’s Degree at POSTECH (2021–2023)

In 2021, I began my Master’s degree at Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), one of South Korea’s leading research universities in science and engineering.

During my graduate studies, I conducted research in the Material Processing Integrated Bio Laboratory, focusing on advanced material fabrication and biomedical applications. My Master’s thesis was titled:

“Multiplex Fabrication of Electrospun Nanofiber Membrane-Integrated Culture Inserts Using a Thermal Bonding System.”

My research centered on developing an innovative fabrication method for electrospun nanofiber membrane-integrated culture inserts using a thermal bonding system. These systems aim to better replicate biological microenvironments and have promising applications in tissue engineering, regenerative medicine, and advanced in vitro cell culture platforms.

Through this research, I gained hands-on experience in nanofiber fabrication, material processing techniques, experimental design, and analytical evaluation. Working in a rigorous and research-intensive environment strengthened my technical competence, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities.

In 2023, I successfully completed my Master’s degree with a GPA of 92.4/100, reflecting consistent academic excellence within a highly competitive research institution.

Academic Foundation and Progression

Before coming to South Korea, I graduated from Khazar University with a Bachelor’s GPA of 89/100. This strong undergraduate performance provided the academic discipline and theoretical foundation necessary for graduate-level research.

To prepare for international education, I achieved an IELTS score of 6.5, demonstrating readiness for English-medium coursework. The progression from a strong undergraduate record to even higher academic achievement during my Master’s reflects sustained commitment and growth.

My academic performance, clear motivation, and structured preparation were key factors in securing the Global Korea Scholarship.

Life After Graduation

After completing my Master’s degree in 2023, I continued my professional journey in South Korea. Today, I am working and living in Korea, applying the research skills and technical knowledge I developed at POSTECH within a dynamic and innovation-driven environment.

The Global Korea Scholarship was not only financial support — it was a gateway to advanced research training, cross-cultural experience, and long-term professional development.

Why I Chose South Korea

South Korea represents one of the strongest examples of how strategic investment in education, research, and engineering can transform a nation. Its global leadership in technology and manufacturing is strongly aligned with my academic interests and professional goals.

Studying in Korea allowed me to experience firsthand the synergy between research, industry, and innovation — an ecosystem that continues to shape my career trajectory.

Advice for Future Applicants

To future Global Korea Scholarship applicants, my advice is straightforward:

Prepare early. Be strategic. Stay authentic.

Maintain strong academic performance, invest in language preparation, and clearly articulate your long-term goals. Scholarship committees seek candidates who demonstrate not only academic ability but also resilience, vision, and potential for meaningful contribution.

The Global Korea Scholarship transformed my academic path and enabled me to build a career in one of the world’s most advanced research environments. With preparation, clarity of purpose, and determination, similar opportunities are achievable.