Soyeon You

Overall Experience

The K-Culture Study Abroad program was one of the most meaningful and rewarding experiences I have had during my graduate studies. Unlike a traditional study abroad experience, I participated as a Graduate Assistant while also experiencing my home country from the perspective of international students. Throughout the 14-day program, our group visited five cities in Korea, where I supported program logistics, coordinated daily activities, assisted faculty members, and served as a bridge between the students and the local community. At the same time, I had the unique opportunity to observe how students interpreted Korean culture, adapted to unfamiliar environments, and gradually developed confidence and curiosity through their interactions with local people. Watching this transformation firsthand reminded me that meaningful learning extends far beyond the classroom. This experience strengthened my leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills while reinforcing my passion for international education and experiential learning. It also gave me a deeper appreciation for my own culture by allowing me to see Korea through the eyes of first-time visitors.

Learning experience

The most valuable learning experience was observing how students learned through direct cultural immersion rather than through lectures or textbooks. Throughout the program, I watched students gradually become more comfortable communicating with local people, trying unfamiliar foods, using public transportation, and navigating new cultural situations. Their confidence grew every day as they stepped outside their comfort zones and supported one another through unexpected challenges. This experience reinforced my belief that some of the most meaningful learning occurs through authentic experiences rather than traditional classroom instruction. As an educator, I learned that creating opportunities for students to engage with real people and real environments can foster not only knowledge but also confidence, adaptability, empathy, and intercultural competence.

Memorable experience

There were many memorable moments throughout the program, but one that stands out most was watching the students interact with Korean university students through the buddy program. At the beginning of the program, many students were understandably nervous because of language barriers and cultural differences. However, after spending time together participating in campus activities, sharing meals, and exploring local communities, they became much more comfortable communicating and forming genuine friendships. Seeing students from different countries laugh together, exchange ideas, and learn from one another reminded me that international education is ultimately about building meaningful human connections. Those moments demonstrated that cultural understanding develops not only through visiting historical sites but also through authentic interactions with local people.

What did you not expect?

One of the most surprising aspects of the program was realizing how differently students interpreted the same cultural experiences. As a Korean, many places, traditions, and everyday customs felt completely ordinary to me, yet the students often noticed details and meanings that I had never considered. Their questions and observations encouraged me to reflect on my own culture from a completely different perspective. This experience taught me that learning is a reciprocal process rather than a one-way exchange of knowledge. As a future educator, I want to create learning environments where students are encouraged to share their own perspectives and interpretations because everyone brings unique experiences that enrich the learning process. This experience also reminded me to remain curious and open-minded, even when engaging with places and cultures that seem familiar.

What advice would you give?

I would strongly encourage students to participate in a study abroad program whenever they have the opportunity, even if it is only for a short period of time. The greatest value of studying abroad is not simply visiting famous attractions but experiencing another culture through daily interactions with local people and fellow students. I recommend approaching the experience with curiosity, flexibility, and an open mind, and being willing to step outside your comfort zone. Try new foods, ask questions, participate actively in every activity, and take time to reflect on your experiences each day. Those reflections often become the most meaningful part of the journey. For graduate students, serving as a Graduate Assistant or student leader can also provide valuable experience in program planning, leadership, and mentoring. Overall, a study abroad experience can significantly influence your personal growth, academic development, and future career while helping you build friendships and perspectives that last well beyond the program itself.

How has this experience impacted your life?

This experience had a significant impact on both my personal and professional development. Personally, it encouraged me to appreciate my own culture in new ways by seeing familiar places through the eyes of international students. Their curiosity and excitement reminded me that many aspects of Korean culture, which I had often taken for granted, are meaningful and fascinating to others. Professionally, the program strengthened my interest in experiential learning and international education. I became even more convinced that learning is most powerful when students actively engage with local communities, experience different cultures firsthand, and reflect on those experiences. The program also generated several new research ideas related to tourism experiences, cultural identity, and educational travel, which I hope to pursue in my future research. In the long term, I hope to become a faculty member who develops international education programs, promotes global learning, and conducts research that enhances hospitality and tourism education.

How did you learn about this experience?

I first learned about this opportunity through my advisor, Dr. SoJung Lee. When she shared this opportunity, I immediately recognized that this would be an excellent opportunity to connect my research interests with practical educational experience. In addition to supporting undergraduate students throughout the program, I was excited about the opportunity to observe how cultural immersion influences learning, personal growth, and intercultural understanding. I also believed that participating as both a Korean student and a Graduate Assistant would allow me to contribute unique perspectives while developing valuable leadership and mentoring skills.

International Connections