Studying abroad in Seoul, South Korea, was a life-changing experience. On the surface, it gave me amazing friendships and a different academic environment. But on a deeper level, it gave me back my spark for learning, struggling with changing my educational path, and burning out. School felt like nothing more than a chore that needed to be done. Though the duration of time I was in South Korea was short in the grand scheme of things, those four months helped me explore potential passions, possible career endeavors, and build connections.
Personally, I felt my passion for learning Korean grew a great deal. Since I took intermediate Korean 2, it was a challenge, especially being surrounded by people who were way better than I was. But being in that environment motivated me to continue studying hard so I can come back to Korea speaking better than before. Also, being in Seoul showed me that I could live abroad. For a long time, it was just a dream for the future. I wanted to do it, but there was still a bit of hesitation on whether I could actually do it, and I did. In a way, being in Seoul made me feel a little more “adult” than I ever have during college.
Both academically and professionally, studying at Korea University allowed me to explore academic ventures outside of my business major. I was able to explore topics on a more cultural and language front, which I felt really passionate about. This freedom motivated me to start exploring the idea of graduate school in Seoul. In all honesty, a portion of this study abroad experience was test running, potentially living and studying in Seoul longer term, and it definitely was a success. This made me start networking with a graduate student I knew from a club who was preparing to defend her thesis in the department I am considering. This networking opportunity was amazing because it gave me a realistic look into what my life could look like in the future. I was also able to grow professionally with some of my friends who were currently interning in Seoul at a study abroad company for Korean students. This gave me perspective on the work culture at a potential company I would like to work at.
Honestly, being in South Korea changed me a lot in ways I probably won’t realize or understand for a while. But with everything I learned in Korea and at Korea University, I hope to bring my knowledge of the program to fellow students considering studying in Seoul and also use my experience studying abroad in advising students in the future as a study abroad advisor.
Living and studying in Seoul was an unforgettable experience. I made so many friends I can’t wait to see, reignited my passions, and explored so much. I can’t wait to do everything again when I go back for graduate school!
Thank you for making this dream come true <3
