Personal Development
I attended a Korean summer school program, which likely included a mix of language classes, cultural activities, and opportunities for social interaction. I have formed meaningful friendships with both local students and other international participants. These relationships could have offered me new perspectives and a support network during your time in Korea. Being in Korea, I had the chance to visit various cities, historical sites, and natural attractions. This exploration helped me understand more about Korean culture, history, and daily life. I have developed qualities like adaptability, resilience, and cultural sensitivity. Navigating a new country and culture can enhance these attributes.I actively engaged in the program's activities, attending classes, participating in cultural events, and exploring different parts of Korea. By practicing the language daily and interacting with locals, I enhanced my language skills and cultural understanding. My willingness to step out of my comfort zone facilitated personal growth and a deeper appreciation for diversity.
Budgeting
Before the trip, I set a clear budget based on research about the cost of living in Korea, including accommodation, food, transportation, and other expenses. I kept a record of daily expenses using a budgeting app or a simple spreadsheet, which helped me monitor my spending and adjust as needed. I prioritized essential expenses like accommodation and food while allocating a specific amount for discretionary spending, such as entertainment and souvenirs. I opted for local eateries, public transport, and budget-friendly accommodations to minimize costs.
Here’s a rough breakdown of the expenses during my stay in Korea:
Accommodation: about 800 dollars
Transportation:about 100 dollars
Food: about 300 dollars
Travel: about 600 dollars
Miscellaneous: about 500 dollars
Advice/top Tips
Research and Plan: Do thorough research on the cost of living in Korea and plan your budget accordingly. Consider factors like exchange rates, which can affect your spending.
Be Realistic: Set a realistic budget that includes a buffer for unexpected expenses. It’s better to overestimate slightly than to run short on funds.
Use Student Discounts: Take advantage of student discounts available for transportation, attractions, and cultural activities.
Monitor Spending: Keep track of your expenses regularly to avoid overspending. Adjust your budget if you notice you're spending more than planned in certain areas.
Save on Meals and Transport: Eating at local markets or cooking your meals can save money. Use public transportation, which is often cheaper and more efficient than taxis.
Plan for Travel and Activities: If you plan to travel around Korea, budget for these trips separately and look for group discounts or package deals.
Emergency Funds: Keep some funds aside for emergencies or unexpected costs, like medical expenses or unforeseen travel changes.
Accommodation
The Korean summer school program provided information on various housing options, including dormitories, hostels, and private rentals. They offered guidance on the pros and cons of each type, costs, and the proximity to the school.I chose to stay in a student dormitory affiliated with the program. The dormitory offered shared rooms with communal facilities such as a kitchen, bathroom, and common areas. The living arrangement was convenient, as it was located close to the campus and provided a chance to meet and interact with other students. The summer school program offered assistance with finding and booking accommodation. They provided a list of recommended housing options, detailed descriptions, and contacts for booking. Additionally, program staff were available to answer questions and offer advice on housing choices.
Sharing bathrooms and kitchens with other students could sometimes be inconvenient, especially during busy times. Being in a student dormitory sometimes meant dealing with noise, especially during weekends or social events.
Highlight
Experiencing Korean culture firsthand was a significant highlight. This included participating in traditional activities such as Korean calligraphy, trying on Hanbok (traditional clothing), and attending cultural festivals. These experiences deepened my understanding of Korean customs, traditions, and daily life, providing a rich context to my language studies. Exploring different parts of Korea, from bustling cities like Seoul to historic sites in Gyeongju, was an incredible highlight. These travels allowed me to see the country's diverse landscapes, architecture, and lifestyles. Visiting landmarks such as palaces, temples, and natural parks enriched my understanding of Korea's history and natural beauty.
Forming friendships with fellow students from around the world was another highlight. The shared experience of studying abroad created strong bonds and a diverse network of friends. These relationships provided not only social support during the program but also lasting connections beyond the experience.
