Korea University Business School Past Review

By (BUSINESS, MANAGEMENT, MARKETING, AND RELATED SUPPORT SERVICES., University of Hawaii - Manoa) for

Korea University: Seoul - Direct Enrollment & Exchange

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned a lot about international business. I also got to experience a whole different university life. It was just an eye opening experience to know that I was studying in a foreign country while having so much fun! Although there were sometimes of panic I loved the experience and all the friends I made on this study abroad.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 2 weeks - 1 month

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

There are a lot of differences and similarities, but I feel that I studied a lot more in Korea than I do at my home university. Workload was bearable and the grading system was about the same as my home university. Teaching methods was a lot more group work and hands on than my home university which I like.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

There is an office on campus for exchange students that is very helpful. The university also has a club dedicated to helping exchange students. However the office was going under repair and upgrades, so there were times when there weren't enough people to answer everyone's questions. Also everyone takes lunch at the same time, so you have to make sure you go to the office before or after lunch. Otherwise there is no one to help you.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

The housing was very nice and clean. The studying facilities and workout facilities were also very good. It's just a bit of a walk to get to the dorms, but not bad. You cook for yourself and have to follow some strict rules. However, there is no curfew.

* Food:

I'm not allergic to any food, but I don't care to eat spicy food. I learned to eat spicy food while in Korea. However, there are some questionable foods which I ate while with friends. The campus has two cafeterias and the dorms also have cafeterias. There are a lot of good places to eat and hangout around campus. There are also Italian, Indian, Chinese, Japanese, & American fast food around the campus. Or just ride the train to another bustling area and go exploring for someplace to eat.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

As stated before the university has a club dedicated to helping exchange students. That club gives you a "buddy" who will help you throughout your stay. Therefore, you get to know not only other exchange students from all over the world, but Korean nationals as well. They take you to some really neat places. You can also just call up some group members and go exploring on your own.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

The university has a hospital on campus. If you are ever feeling sick just go to the hospital. I never really got sick so this is just my rating from what I hear from other people. The only big problems is that you should take someone who is pretty fluent in both Korean and English just in case. The campus and the surrounding area is all pretty safe. However, it's better to be safe than sorry, so I only gave safety an average. It's what you do to make yourself feel safe that matters.

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? Yes

Finances

* Money: How easily were you able to live on a student's budget?

(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost)

Language

If applicable, to what degree did your living situation aid your language acquisition?

Direct Enrollment/Exchange

* Did you study abroad through an exchange program or did you directly enroll in the foreign university? Exchange

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • International Students

A Look Back

* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? It's good to prepare everything, in advance and make sure you get your multiple re-entry visa. However, the "KUBA" program which helps the exchange students at Korea University is the best resource for everything. Bring a little money to tie you over for about a month or so, because the university also opens up a bank account in your name, so no need to worry about running out of money!