a summer memory Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

I went for the 6 weeks course, I felt that the pace and content was just nice. Even though the modules' content were 1-semester worth, the pace of delivery was right, it did not felt too rushed. Furthermore, the professors appear to be very knowledgeable, and consultations can always be arranged. There is also no lack of study corners, and the KU library is opened to us as well.

On-site administration of your program

The administrators of KUISC program are very efficient. They reply to your e-mail within the same day, and are always stationed around the study halls in case you need any assistance.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I stayed in the CJ International House Level 6 double bed, upper bunk. I was disappointed as I expected two beds side by side (seen from KU promotional video of CJ I-House) as opposed to the bunk beds which was inconvenient to say the least. Other than the room layout, I was dissatisfied with the amount of mosquitoes and some other bugs in my room. My room mate and I were constantly getting bitten, with lots of bites all over our limbs. Our dorm mates on other levels and suite mates didn't seem to have this problem. The plus points are stamina training from the huge steep climb up to the dorm and KU shuttle buses from my dorm to the study halls.

I LOVE KOREAN FOOD!! They might be too big a portion for most people, but the portion is just nice for me, which doesn't make me feel like I'm a big eater lol. The food is proportionate to the portion I'm paying for so it is still very affordable to me. Tasty and wide variety! I also love how there is hot/ cold water dispenser in EVERY corner.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I felt integrated with the local culture. The KU buddy scheme is so good, I made friends with people from different countries, locals included. I also got to experience many activities arranged by KU like the ice-skating and volunteered in projects like the Dongdaemun Traffic Police road safety wall painting. I also looked to the Korean e-sports culture, went to watch LCK live and played in the local PC bangs there for many hours. I also went for a Korean cooking class with my bf who came to visit me during my time there, and learned how to cook a few dishes like tteokbokki, tteokgalbi, bibimbap. I also learnt how to read a couple of Korean symbols(?).

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I did not have any experience with healthcare, but during orientation, the staff mentioned that we could just head to the KU Medical Centre just beside KU for any emergencies.

Seoul is very safe! I could walk around late at night, 3am by myself and it is all very safe! I could say it is as safe as Singapore, I feel safe leaving my bag at my seat while I go to front counter and order my food.

YES I would. I only wish there was a way to know when the good times end, 6 weeks flew past so fast and fast forward, its 4 months post exchange but even now it doesn't feel like it ended.

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

Referring to the scale where 1 = $200+ on food & personal expenses, I spent about $200 per week, mostly on food and drinks (the cafe culture in Korea is too alluring!!). The other expenses went to entrance tickets purchases to places (which are usually <=10,000KRW). I did not spend on cosmetics etc which Korea are known for.

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• Dorm

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• International Students

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• International Students

• Food
• People
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