Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

The happiest summer and coolest summer of my university life Past Review

By (University of Toronto) - abroad from 06/27/2018 to 08/02/2018 with

Korea University: Seoul - International Summer Campus

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
Studying at KU was an undeniably worthwhile and memorable experience. I was able to make friends from all over the world, learn about different cultures, explore Korea, and learn from professors from extremely prestigious universities. I think as a university student, the most important lessons to learn are learning to see the world from a wide perspective, through studying abroad and meeting students from all over the world. These are experiences that are only available to us as students and if the opportunity presents itself, I would love to study at KU again.

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 Korea University: Seoul - International Summer Campus Photo

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? None

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

* Food:

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

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

It was an amazing experience for me as although I was born in Korea, I immigrated to Canada at an extremely young age. I have never experienced student life in Korea and although 6 weeks is a very short time, I was able to learn a lot and gain insights on what it means to be a student in Korea. I also really enjoyed the graduation ceremony and the way KU designed the program to make it feel as though we were local students going through a program and fully graduating. I don't know of alot of exchange programs that provide this full experience and would really like to commend Korea University for this.

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)

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? 100 CAD

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? Yes
How much did the program encourage you to use the language?

0 = No encouragement, 5 = frequent encouragement to use the language

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? Advanced
How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? Advanced
How many hours per day did you use the language?
Do you have any tips/advice on the best ways to practice the language for future study abroad participants? Definitely talk to locals and don't feel shy to approach local students and speak with them whenever you can. The best way to learn a language is to continuously practice and implement your learning! Additionally, watching Korean shows and movies with subtitles would really help learn the daily language of locals. There are also a lot of language exchange programs that expats can participate in and those are really good for making friends, learning about the local culture, and improving your Korean skills!

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

  • Other
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Other
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • International Students
About how many local friends did you make that you will likely keep in touch with? 0

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • All the cultural experiences and trips organized by KU
  • The dedication to international students with a committed office as well as student volunteers
  • The opportunity to learn from professors from prestigious universities all over the world
* What could be improved?
  • I would have appreciated more opportunities to meet local students (activities, field trips)
  • Campus tour
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I wish that I would have had a better insight into the courses and that I should keep a good schedule of enjoying Korea and focussing on studies. Additionally, planning out my schedule so that I have time in the day to explore Korea and go on vacations.

Reasons For Studying Abroad

To help future students find programs attended by like-minded individuals, please choose the profile that most closely represents you.
The Networker
An active student leader, it was important for you to network abroad as well. Once overseas, you sought out student clubs, volunteered with local organizations, or attended community events. You encouraged your friends join you, and often considered how you could reflect your international experiences in a resume.