It is difficult to sum up this experience because it truly has been one of the best experiences of my life. When I first came to Korea, I knew that studying and interning abroad would push me outside of my comfort zone, but I did not realize just how much I would grow or how meaningful the experience would become to me. I am leaving Korea with new confidence, incredible friendships, a better understanding of myself, and memories that I know I will carry with me for the rest of my life.
Personally, this experience challenged me in ways that I do not think I would have experienced if I had stayed in my normal routine. Living in another country required me to become more independent and comfortable with the unfamiliar. There were so many moments where I had to figure things out on my own, whether that was navigating a new place, communicating across a language barrier, or simply adjusting to a culture very different from my own. Things that seemed intimidating at the beginning became normal as time went on. I learned that I am much more capable and adaptable than I previously gave myself credit for.
Some of the most meaningful parts of my time abroad were the cultural experiences and the people I met along the way. I came to Korea expecting to learn about a new culture, but actually living here gave me an understanding that I never could have gotten from a classroom. Being able to experience everyday life in Korea, try new things, explore new places, and learn from the people around me completely changed my perspective. I also met some of the best people during this experience. The friendships I made are a huge reason why Korea became so special to me. Sharing new experiences with people who started as strangers and quickly became such an important part of my life is something I will always be grateful for.
Academically and professionally, my experience also gave me a much clearer idea of what I want for my future. Interning in Korea allowed me to see what it is like to work in a culture outside of the United States and taught me that there is no single way to approach a workplace, communicate with others, or define success. I had to pay attention, adapt, ask questions, and become comfortable learning as I went. More importantly, the experience made me realize how much I value opportunities that allow me to meet people from different backgrounds, experience different cultures, and continue challenging myself.
When I return to Pitt, I think I will come back as a more confident and independent version of myself. Before this experience, there were situations I might have avoided simply because they felt unfamiliar or intimidating. Now, I want to be the person who says yes to those opportunities. I want to bring back the willingness to meet new people, try things that make me uncomfortable, and be more open to where an opportunity might lead me. I also hope I can encourage other Pitt students to consider studying or working abroad because I now understand how much an experience like this can change someone.
Looking toward my future career, one of my biggest takeaways is that growth usually happens when I am willing to be uncomfortable. Moving across the world and working in a completely new environment was a major challenge, but it ended up becoming one of the most rewarding decisions I have ever made. I now feel more confident entering unfamiliar situations and working with people whose backgrounds and perspectives are different from my own. I also have a better idea of the kind of career and life I want to build. I do not want to become too comfortable or limit myself to what feels familiar. I want to continue finding opportunities that challenge me, introduce me to new people, and allow me to keep learning about the world.
Most of all, I am incredibly grateful that I had the opportunity to have this experience. It is hard to explain how much these past few months have meant to me. I came to Korea hoping to gain professional experience and learn about another culture, but I am leaving with so much more than that. I gained confidence, independence, friendships, a new perspective on my future, and a place and group of people that will always mean a lot to me. This experience has changed the way I see myself and what I believe I am capable of, and I know its impact will continue long after I return to Pitt. I am extremely thankful to my donor for helping make an experience this meaningful possible.
