By Hyo In Park, Class of 2025
After one of the most grueling weeks of my undergraduate journey—two midterms and four final group presentations—I desperately needed something to recharge my energy. That Friday morning, I found myself at a Living Room Conversation session hosted by the Luther Hodges Scholars program. At first, I wasn’t expecting it to provide the refreshment I needed. Yet, by the end of the session, I felt genuinely reinvigorated. Sharing my story and hearing those of my fellow scholars reminded me how transformative meaningful conversations can be. If you’re seeking a similar reset or simply a space to connect on a deeper level, I highly recommend attending the next Living Room Conversation. In the meantime, here’s a glimpse into my experience.
Living Room Conversations are a unique opportunity to move beyond debates and focus on genuine dialogue. These sessions guarantee an environment of mutual respect and curiosity, free from judgment. This particular session centered on the theme of polarization; a topic that could not be more relevant given the spirit of Living Room Conversations.
The discussion began with reflections on navigating the political landscape in the United States. My fellow Luther Hodges Scholars and I shared how our perspectives have evolved since leaving our hometowns, shaped by our identities and personal experiences. Our conversation also extended beyond national borders. I shared insights into modern Korean history and the polarization that exists in Korea and Yashu recounted his experience growing up in India before moving to the U.S. at a young age. The stories we exchanged reflected the diversity of our backgrounds, yet they revealed common threads of struggle, growth, and resilience.
What struck me most was the ease with which we engaged in this deep, thoughtful conversation. Despite minimal guidance and differing experiences, we found common ground through our shared eagerness to listen and respect one another. It gave me a renewed sense of hope: if a group of young adults can overcome societal divides in a single morning, perhaps the larger world can, too. Not everyone shared my optimism, but I left with the conviction that open-mindedness and empathy can pave the way for understanding.
As I reflect on that morning, I realize how rare and valuable it is to feel truly heard and to listen without judgment. Living Room Conversations offers precisely that—a chance to pause, connect, and learn from one another. I encourage you to attend a session and experience the transformative power of dialogue for yourself. You might just walk away, like I did, feeling hopeful about our collective ability to bridge divides.
