Seoul, South Korea

Through FIU's International Student Exchange Program, I was honored to be selected into Kyunghee University in Seoul, South Korea. I was enrolled for the Spring 2019 semester and it was the the best five months in my academic journey. I was enrolled in four classes: Korean II, Eastern Mythology, East Asian International Relations and Sociology of Korean Society. These classes allowed me to learn more about Korea's culture, history, language, and even folklore. My sociology class allowed me to have a deeper understanding of Korean society, and as we were paired into discussion groups with Korean students, I was able to see Korea in the perspective of a Korean college student. I was involved in IFCC (International Friend and Culture Club) and was matched with my "buddy", Minju. I was also lucky enough to become close with other Korean students from IFCC and form close friendships. I made a very close friend, Jihyun, whom I still talk to. I was also matched with a language buddy, Moon, who, so patiently, helped improve my Korean. IFCC took us on many field trips, including a local Korean festival, a private pottery class, and temple stay. In the five months that I spent in South Korea, I explored must-sees, historical sites, palaces, and a lot of restaurants owned by local elder Koreans. I attended school festivals that brought popular South Korean idols to the small stage and attended musical festivals around South Korea. Through my study abroad, I was able to see South Korea outside of film and television and experience its culture for myself. Even though it was my first time traveling outside of the United States, I have never felt more at home and connected to a place. I stepped out of my comfort zone a lot and found a new love for Korean food culture and new experiences. I was excited to travel to South Korea and experience another culture outside of my own, but I did not expect to fall in love to the extent that I did. This experience solidified my goal to become a Global Citizen. Just as Kyunghee University prides itself on global learning, as do I. I plan on returning to South Korea to pursue a Master's Degree continue my journey towards becoming fluent in Korean. I am thankful for the wonderful roommate I had and for all the friendships that I made with Korean students and other students from around the world. I am also thankful to Professor Cho for her letter of recommendation, her constant encouragement and belief in me. I enjoyed Professor Cho's recommendations of where to travel in South Korea, such as Ilsan Lake Park, and our many conversations about my experiences when I returned to FIU.