A Taste for Innovation
Untitled | Kyla Chapman | Collage
A Taste for Innovation by Jerin Jeong
One day, in a cozy restaurant where the smell of diverse cuisines filled the air, my mother shared a profound piece of wisdom. “Try new foods to be more innovative. Your taste is a barometer of whether you are progressive or conservative.” It has become my guiding principle ever since. She believes that the experimental spirit comes from small attempts to pick up a “never-seen-before” menu, as our taste tends to avoid unfamiliar things for our safety. She expects me to cultivate an innovative mind through daily trivial trials and accumulate as many experiences and memories as possible in my life.
This memorable advice was shared during a family vacation four years ago in Vietnam. With that guidance, I courageously ordered a dish called ‘Ta Tai Tuong Chien Xu,’ a grilled fish from the Mekong River, without knowing its composition. Fortunately, it was an unforgettable taste. Since then, I always ask the server to recommend the most authentic local food wherever I go. Whether enjoyable or not, each dish becomes not only a precious memory but also one step forward for an innovative spirit.
My mother’s advice brought about a whole new mindset. This daring spirit extended beyond food exploration to various facets of my life. From busking at a local festival in Seoul, playing ‘He’s a Pirate’ on the flute, to starting a new life in the United States, I began to apply those principles in everyday life. During my middle and high school years, I tried new sports like pickleball, tennis, golf, street hockey, and rowing. I traveled all around the US and collected magnets as symbols of my adventurous memories, reflecting these commitments to diverse experiences.
Taking a bold step by applying to the boarding school could be a new phase of my challenge, highlighting my willingness to dive into uncharted waters for personal growth. Attending a boarding school means more than just a change in an educational environment. It is an opportunity for personal improvement, developing independence, and ultimately broadening my perspective. Just as I fearlessly tried small trials in my daily routine, I am now prepared to embark on an independent life abroad, taking on much more responsibility earlier than expected.
Whether trying exotic food or applying to a boarding school, I believe each attempt contributes to a life richer in diversity and an unwavering curiosity toward the unknown. I believe that this adventurous mindset has become an integral part of who I am, driving me to seek out new challenges and approach life with an open mind. In this regard, my journey of culinary exploration and diverse experiences has paved the way for a future characterized by curiosity, adaptability, and a passion for continuous learning. My mother’s words serve as a consistent reminder of the importance of innovation and adaptability in navigating life's numerous challenges. As someone once wisely said, ‘Die with memories, not with dreams.’ This quote encourages me to take progressive actions, ensuring my life is filled with unforgettable memories without leaving any crumbs of regret.
