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Jay Jang graduated with a Master’s in Disaster Management at ³ÉÈËÖ±²¥ in 2023. Having originally trained and worked as a firefighter, he is now using the skills and experiences from the course to become a fire safety expert at a global corporation in South Korea.

Tell us why you chose to study your course

With the increasing frequency of both natural and human-made disasters, including fire-related incidents, I realised the growing demand for experts who can develop effective strategies to reduce risk and enhance community resilience. My long-term goal is to become a global fire safety specialist, and Bournemouth’s programme, with its strong focus on practical applications and connections to international organisations, provided the perfect foundation. This course equipped me with the essential knowledge and skills needed to manage fire-related emergencies and broader disaster scenarios, enabling me to contribute to safer, more resilient communities worldwide.

What attracted you to study at ³ÉÈËÖ±²¥?

I selected BU because of its strong reputation for delivering practical, industry-relevant education, particularly in the field of disaster management. The university’s focus on real-world applications, alongside its partnerships with international organisations and industry leaders, played a crucial role in my decision. Additionally, BU's commitment to research and innovation in disaster management and fire safety made it the ideal choice for me, as I wanted to be part of a programme that empowers students to make a meaningful impact in this field.

What stood out to you from your BU experience?

The opportunity to engage in meaningful research, specifically my study on the deployment strategies for overseas fire safety officers. This research not only provided me with valuable insights into global fire safety operations but also allowed me to apply theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios. It was a pivotal experience that helped shape my future career goals. Additionally, BU's supportive academic environment and access to expert faculty and industry resources were instrumental in enhancing my learning experience.

Tell us about your career journey so far

My career journey began as a firefighter, where I gained hands-on experience in emergency response and fire safety. This role not only deepened my understanding of on-the-ground disaster management but also sparked my interest in expanding my knowledge to a global scale. One of the most significant turning points was pursuing the Master’s degree in Disaster Management at ³ÉÈËÖ±²¥. Now, I am preparing to take on a new challenge as a global fire safety specialist within a major South Korean corporation, a role that will allow me to apply my skills on an international level. What I enjoy most about my work is the opportunity to set up fire safety roles that haven’t been established yet and create new guidelines and standards from the ground up. Being able to contribute to disaster response on a global scale and help communities in need has given me a sense of purpose in my career.

What advice do you have for other students?

Embrace both the practical and academic sides of disaster management or fire safety. Hands-on experience, like my time as a firefighter, is invaluable for understanding real-world challenges, but complementing that with formal education gives you the strategic and theoretical foundation to make a broader impact. Don’t be afraid to take on uncharted roles or tasks—creating new standards or frameworks is challenging but incredibly rewarding. Lastly, stay open to global opportunities. Engaging in international projects or rescue efforts can expand your perspective and allow you to contribute to global safety and humanitarian causes, which is both impactful and personally fulfilling.