Developed professionallly, culturally, and personally Past Review

By (International Business, University of Southern Indiana) - abroad from 06/24/2016 to 08/10/2015 with

Yonsei University: Seoul - Direct Enrollment & Exchange

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I became more independent, assertive, and resourceful. The program help me decide what career field I would love to work in. My perception was changed for the better and I became more open minded to others beliefs and cultures.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 1 month - 6 months

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Most of my courses were challenging, engaging, and stimulating.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

For the most part it was pretty straight forward as there were emails about important events and an office to visit if you had any questions.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I had a room for 2 at SK Global. As I was there just for the summer, there was enough room for my things. No wifi in the rooms, you have to use LAN. I believe MAC labtops can set up wifi though. It was irritating with using the LAN cable because if you wanted to lay in bed and surf the web, the cord would get in the way. Also You couldn't use your phone in your room if you didn't have an international data plan. I had an international data and text messaging plan with Sprint so there was no problem there. The only big problem I had was there was no door separating the shower room(no tub). There was a shower door but once you step out, there was no door separating the shower room from the bedroom.

* Food:

I had a meal stipend with the program I was in. As I lived in SK Global, the restaurants were in the same building. The food is pretty good. I love moderate spicy food so most Korean food does not bother me. Their food is quite spicy. There is a cafeteria as well but I heard it was not that great.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I didn't know a single person going into the program but I made so many lasting friendships after the program ended. I had my share of friends after becoming active in building friendships. Many ways to make new friends abroad. Meeting your roommate and their friends, Yonsei Facebook group. classes, events, and etc. You just have to jump into it and everything will work out.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I bought insurance through my program. Never had to use it.

* Safety:

As the Mer scare was currently going on when I was there, many activities were canceled for the safety of the students. It sucked but I understand they wanted to insure the safety of the students.

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

I meet so many wonderful people from around the world. I was able to take classes with other international students and learn from them. Traveling the streets of Seoul and enjoying their food, fashion, historical monuments and nightlife was my most prized treasure.

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)

It is just a matter of setting a budget for yourself. You are on your on in a different country and you have a set amount of income weekly/monthly. You have to learn how to spend responsibly. It was a challenge to budget as the food was pricey on campus. After some hit and miss trails, I was able to manage. I had some support from my parents too when I ran a bit short. Some might not have that assistance so it is best to know what your are working with.

Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Do your research. The currency rate was in my favor as well when transferring US to WON.

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? Exchange

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
  • Americans
  • 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?
  • Friends
  • Some classes
* What could be improved?
  • Better Communication with ISEP students
  • Transparency with opening Bank Account
  • More gathering events
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Knowing a little Korean will benefit you a lot. Trust me.

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 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.