Korea: Seoul - Korean and East Asian Studies, Kookmin University

This program was the perfect mix of rigor, culture, and fun. I enjoyed every part from going to class, to going on our cultural field trips, to getting to know my new peers. If you are looking for a program that going to change your view on the world and expand your knowledge of other cultures this is the program for you. As a Korean Media lover this was the perfect program to feel integrated into this world. This program is also perfect for those that prefer a more rural experience but that still want to experience a city life experience.

I was able to have the time of my life at Kookmin University in South Korea, the country that is known for their rapid technology innovations and “KPOP” a genre of music that is creating a sensation worldwide. I was so excited to find out my university offered South Korea, being my first choice in where I wanted to study abroad. Kookmin University is such a gorgeous campus- straight out of a fiction book! Perfect place for those who love nice sceneries with lots of green trees! The local students were also so so helpful, I was always able to rely on them for help while traveling around.
Being able to be part of their Finance studies, I had a glimpse of how professors directly care for their students, following up with any questions we had about lectures. In Korea I realized that students and professors have a more friendly bond- they will ask about why you missed class and showed that they cared.
USAC connected with my university in South Korea, giving us opportunities to go on field trips to historical monuments. A memorable activity we did was make candles out of sesame oil, and we got to design them with pretty dried flowers- all for free!
The most fun event that I was able participate in was an OVERNIGHT COLLEGE RETREAT! Not a normal field trip in the US, the retreat was full of lots of food, fun activities, and time to bond and really get the authentic college experience that all Korean university students get.
There was not a moment in South Korea that I was bored, there was always an event going on either at school or in town that allowed foreign students to participate at our own comfort with the locals! Go study abroad! It was all worth it in the end- there are so much more out there, go and explore!

For many years I have wanted to visit Seoul, South Korea, and this program gave me the opportunity to do so. South Korea has one of the most dynamic societies I have ever had the pleasure of experiencing. Seoul is an absolutely gorgeous city filled with a rich culture yet modern economy. On the same street, you can see modern high rises that rival any countries and traditional food stands. Speaking of food, everything is delicious and cheap. Anywhere you go in Seoul, there will always be someone making food that you can consume, either at the stands or walking. There are also plenty of places to buy things, so make sure to pack lightly.

The people in Seoul are generally very kind and respectful. They are willing to assist you if you're lost or need anything else. Foreigners are overall very welcome within South Korea.

Korean fashion is also unique in comparison to the fashion present in the USA. Every district in Korea seems to have formed its own type of clothing. Hongdae is where most people are dressed in street-wear whereas Gangnam is where most people wear name-brand clothing that costs more than my left arm.

Kookmin University is also a wonderful school, located in a very beautiful part of Seoul. There is not much to do around the school, but if you cross the street, some more traditional-style restaurants can be found if you just go down the stairs. The campus itself is very well put together. There are many trees and lovely plants not native to the USA as well as a large dragon fountain right at the entrance of the school. If you're looking for some cool spots on campus, the Student Union building has a wonderful bakery right outside the doors of the second floor (try the Squid Ink Bread, it's basically the best thing I've ever eaten).

I can't say much about the on/off-campus dorms or even the Stay4U accommodations, as I lived off-campus the entire year I studied in Korea. If you are planning on living in on-campus dorms, be aware that there is a curfew and it's quite far from where most young people like to go to hang out. If you are looking for accommodations off-campus, I would suggest looking into an AIRBNB, Seoul's Craiglist (it's not as shady as American Craigslist, but still be careful) or even on Facebook Marketplace.

Overall the city is very welcoming to those who love city life, so I encourage you to take the leap and go there. The only thing I would suggest is that you arrive in Korea with some knowledge of culture, respect, and the Korean language. You do not have to be completely fluent in Korean, but being able to read it is very helpful when getting around.

Also, if you plan on staying for a year, you should look into getting a bank card attached to your transit card, it makes traveling and purchasing things much easier. There is even a bank on Kookmin campus that can help you do this! Good luck and have fun!