Stony Brook University SUNY Korea

On March 20, 2024, Room 203 in Building B at SUNY Korea buzzed with excitement for a special gathering. Students, professors, and staff came together to exchange knowledge and passion around a single book, representing diverse majors and backgrounds. This is the SUNY Korea Book Club, where the protagonists are its members.

This book club convenes every Wednesday during lunchtime, from 12 PM to 1 PM, to listen to audiobooks and engage in in-depth discussions. Over the past four weeks, participants immersed themselves in one book, Kai Fu Lee's "AI 2041," sparking profound discussions on the advancement of AI, future technology, and its societal impacts.

One of the greatest advantages of the book club is providing an opportunity to enhance English skills and listening abilities amidst busy schedules. For students, it offers educational value, while for professors and staff, it's a precious time to expand knowledge and gain new perspectives.

Following the reading session, there's approximately 30 minutes allocated for group discussions. Professors, staff, and students mingle, sharing their thoughts and impressions freely, transcending ranks and age to understand and communicate with each other—a valuable opportunity.

SUNY Korea ‘s book club is an open space where anyone can participate without any burden, in line with the purpose of "just showing up." In particular, since they are held during lunchtime, simple meals are also provided, minimizing barriers to participation. 

The leaders of the book club emphasize diversity and inclusivity. Led by Professor Victor Reeser, staff member Chuck Robinson, and AMS major undergraduate student Jin Suk, each brings their unique perspectives and experiences to the group. The plan is to continue exploring knowledge through various books, including those from Harvard Business Review’s Must Reads on Leadership. 
SUNY Korea's book club is not just an ordinary book club, but it is a community where people from various backgrounds come together to share knowledge and understand each other.

Written by Student Reporter, Suhyun Kim
(suhyun.kim@stonybrook.edu)