Staff Interview: Ms. Esther Lee

Could you tell us about your journey as an educator and what led you to join VIS?

When I was younger, I always wanted to become an elementary school teacher. But as I grew older and went through university, my plans changed, and I explored other paths. Thankfully with the help of good advice, I eventually found my way back to education through graduate school. I first worked in education policy, then taught high school at my hometown in Toronto for a few years. When I decided to move to Korea, Valor was the first school I applied to. I was drawn by the vision and the way students and staff spoke about their experiences. It felt like a community that truly cared about people, not just academics — and that mattered a lot to me.

How was the transition into your role as Head of Upper School? What challenges did you face?

The transition happened very quickly, which honestly helped — I didn't have too much time to overthink it. My experience as a Division Head last year allowed me to see how much work happens behind the scenes, things students don't usually notice. One of the biggest challenges has been learning how to manage different responsibilities at once while still making fair and thoughtful decisions. I've been very thankful for the support and guidance from other leaders at the school. This year feels like a true learning year for me. Every day brings something totally new, and I'm still learning as I go — which I have to get comfortable with.

Outside of school, what are some of your interests or hobbies?

I joke that not having hobbies is my hobby. I used to hang out a lot with friends, and also enjoyed taking long walks – something I still get made fun of for calling it a hobby. These days, I enjoy spending time with my family the most. We talk for hours and laugh a lot. This is what helps me recharge. My plan is to start enjoying working out and turn it into a hobby – we'll see if that happens.

How was your own experience in high school? What advice would you offer students who may be struggling academically or personally to help them succeed in school?

My high school experience looked very different from who I am now. In the early years, I was extremely social. I cared a lot about having friends (and a boyfriend), having fun, and just enjoying life in general. Later on, when university started to feel real, I learned to slow down, focus, and take my responsibilities more seriously.

I think high school is a unique season of life. You only get it once. It's the best time to learn, to try different things, and make mistakes — mistakes you can learn from and grow. One thing I've already shared with some of my students is that there is a time for many things in life. High school is a time to study, to build habits, and to have meaningful relationships. It's also a time to enjoy being young. You don't need to have everything figured out yet! You don't need to rush into the next stage of life. Later will come new seasons — university, work, relationships, marriage, family, etc. — but this season has its own purpose.

Looking back, I don't have many regrets, but I do wish I hadn't put so much pressure on myself to be perfect. High school would have been lighter if I had trusted the process more. Enjoy yourself, but enjoy yourself wisely. Laugh a lot, make good memories. But also learn when to say no, when to step back, and when to focus! A lot of things that feel overwhelming right now — grades, relationships, embarrassing moments — won't feel nearly as big 5 years from now. What will matter is the kind of person you're becoming. Learn how to manage your time, choose friends who help you grow, and don't get pulled into gossip or drama, don't hurt others – trust me, it comes back to you. Try not to live based on what other people think of you. High school is less about being perfect and more about learning who you are. Build your character — it lasts much longer than grades ever will. And most importantly, enjoy being young, this season goes by much faster than you expect :)