The only summer I need. Past Review

By (University of Wollongong) - abroad from 06/27/2017 to 07/20/2017 with

Korea University: Seoul - International Summer Campus

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
The knowledge I gained, the friendships I forged and the experience to feel like a local student, what more can I ask for? I have grown to be more comfortable in speaking Korean, exchanging conversations with local cab drivers and friendly ahjummas.

Review Photos

Korea University: Seoul - International Summer Campus Photo Korea University: Seoul - International Summer Campus Photo Korea University: Seoul - International Summer Campus Photo Korea University: Seoul - International Summer Campus Photo

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.

A dedicated professor, that makes classes so worthwhile. My professor goes the extra mile to ensure that we understood the lessons and were not bored. The materials were more than enough for me to fully understand every concept taught in class. Although there were exams every week, I definitely do not regret my choice to come to Korea University. I seem to have gained more knowledge than the years I spent back at home.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

The administration process was a breeze, the staffs were very helpful and easily available. Any concerns were resolved swiftly.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

The on-campus housing was prodigious. The amenities were great, and the room wasn't as small as expected. Although Frontier lacked a kitchen, there are tons of food places. With the housing just a stone throw away from Woodang Hall (where classes are held), there is also shuttle bus services available is walking to school isn't your thing.

* Food:

The food was amazing. I love Korean cuisine, making this trip even better than it already was. I was spoilt for choices. There were tons of affordable and delectable choices on campus and around Anam. The best part is that there is food available around the clock. Till, today I still miss the food I had during my stay, It is no secret that I gained weight after the trip. ^^

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Korea University has gone the extra mile to offer many cultural immersion programs for us to join. From cooking class, Taekwondo to baseball matches (which was sadly canceled due to the weather), it definitely allowed me to fully experience the local culture. With the buddy program, we were able to understand the University life in Korea firsthand from our buddies.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I did not require any medical assistance during the trip. But, there is international healthcare services available!

* Safety:

It was very safe around campus and in Korea. As a female student, I definitely wasn't uncomfortable getting around even during late nights. It is definitely noteworthy to have friends around and stay vigilant.

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

The experience and friendship I forged is something that I will never forget. Not only did I have fun, I learned a lot through this trip as well.

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)

Food on campus and around campus is generally affordable. I did spend more than at home as I did travel around a lot.

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? $200
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Transportation is rather expensive, if you need to take the subway every day, it would be better to get the monthly passes. Food is generally cheaper near campus areas, so try to eat on campus or around before traveling out. It will also be good to share laundry supplies with your roommate instead of paying at the vending machine each time!

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? No

Direct Enrollment/Exchange

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

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • International Students
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
  • International Students
About how many local friends did you make that you will likely keep in touch with?

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • Activities and Field Trips
  • Food
  • Classes
* What could be improved?
  • Intake for field trips
  • Buddy Program
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? That there was absolutely nothing to worry about and that you are about to have the best experience you ever had. Also, staying in the on-campus housing was the right choice. All the worries I had were nothing when I arrived. Although there is quite a walk up to the dorm, just treat it as an exercise from all the sumptuous food that you ate.

Reasons For Studying Abroad

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The Outright Urbanite
A social butterfly, you're happiest in bustling cities with hip people, and took advantage of all it had to offer. You enjoyed the nightlife, and had fun going out dancing, and socializing with friends. Fun-loving and dressed to the nines, you enjoyed discovering new restaurants, shops, cafes, and bars in your host country.