Eunice Cho, Member of Hidden Figures

Hello, I am Eunice Cho, currently a freshman at Chadwick International.

I joined Hidden Figures from my friend’s recommendation, simply motivated towards collaborative work and interactions with numerous grade levels in our school community. However, as I worked on various projects with members of this group, I realized that Hidden Figures shares the same vision with my perspective of watching the socially excluded ones in our world, specifically differently-abled people.

I was initially concerned with South Korea’s negative perception towards differently-abled people because I had scoliosis (a backbone curve disease) 2 years ago. Though it seemed minor from the early stages, the discomfort of my backbone increased over and over, then aggravated as my body grew up relatively later than other average kids. I faced many difficulties, particularly during athletic activities and Outdoor Education; yet, I felt too ashamed to let others know of my disease. When I always encountered myself against the reflection of the mirror, I disliked my unbalanced back and constantly felt the impulse to give up everything.

Fortunately, I was able to overcome this struggle and my back is currently getting better through exercises. However, I did not want to limit my motivation to help the differently-abled at that point; It is because I learned that being severely differently-abled not only leads to physical differences but also mental differences. As a person who is part of the social/physical minority, I felt thankful that I have opportunities to make my body healthier at one thought, but also deeply uneasy regarding the fact that millions of people feel the same way I used to -- on the other.

Since I have always thought about what kinds of solutions can be implemented and how I can utilize my passion for supporting the socially disadvantaged, I joined Hidden Figures which eventually led to who I am right now. I am truly thankful that I can contribute to an amazing chance to embrace my identity as a helping hand to others who feel uncomfortable in our society.

I am looking forward to pursuing my passion more and empowering others in HF!