Annnyeonghaseyo from Seoul! After completing over halfway through my study abroad, I thought I would provide an update. These past couple of weeks have been busy with studying, projects, and exams for my various classes. It was midterm season at Korea University. Since I took a lighter course load this semester, I have not completely been drowning in work—a refreshing turnaround from last semester’s chaos—but I also have not had much time to explore as usual.
Three months in, I feel settled into my routine here. Even so, I still find myself in awe as I continue discovering new places around the city. One particular experience that stood out to me was visiting Seokchon Lake to see the cherry blossoms. The trees stood tall, encircling the lake, their delicate pale pink blossoms swaying gently in the wind. At the time, I did not realize it was the only weekend to catch them in full bloom before a rainstorm the following week washed many of them away. I feel grateful I was able to witness the blossoms in all of their short-lived beauty.
Daily life in Seoul has not come without its challenges. I would say the language barrier has been the biggest one. I cannot help but feel ashamed that I do not speak Korean well. Although my mom is Korean, I was not taught the language growing up. I can memorize phrases and immerse myself in my studies, but one unexpected question or unfamiliar word is often enough for my confidence to unravel. Since I look very Korean, locals almost always begin speaking to me in Korean automatically, asking questions or making comments that I often do not understand. Repeatedly, I am reminded of my disconnection from my culture.
Still, I try to turn those feelings of shame into motivation to keep learning. When faced with an unknown phrase, I switch to using Papago, the number one recommended translator app, and input what they said, saving the phrase for later reference. When eating out at restaurants, I make an effort to use as much Korean as possible. Whether I am ordering food, asking for simple favors, or paying the check, I feel proud of myself for being able to navigate interactions with locals, even if it’s just basic dining etiquette. I also joined the Language Exchange Program at Korea University, where I was paired with a Korean student who wanted to learn English. My exchange partner’s name is Jiho, and she is a senior biochemistry student. We have had monthly meetings, connecting on topics from fashion and entertainment to student life and career goals. Cultural exchange with someone my age has truly been a highlight.
As I look ahead to my final month studying abroad, I hope to continue challenging myself and embracing new opportunities. I am grateful that my friends here have not lost their enthusiasm for exploring Seoul, even after our three months here. We hope to continue exploring the city, especially the nature here, as summer approaches, making it too hot to. There is simply never enough time, so I intend to make the most of what I have left.
