Exchange Life at Korea University

안녕하세요 (Hello) from Korea!

It is already over halfway through the semester, and I am so thankful to be given the opportunity to study abroad at this beautiful university and country. I have previously applied for the Global Exchange program several times before, but the pandemic put those dreams on hold. Finally, travel and the global exchange experience has resumed after almost 3 years. Hopefully when you are reading this blog, there are no barriers to exchange and as such I urge you to consider a semester abroad as it is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Studying abroad at Korea University is almost dreamlike. The campus has beautiful architecture and plenty of study spaces both inside and outside. Students often study outside and have picnics on the grass when the weather is warm. The academic life here is a bit rigorous as the university is in the SKY unis (the top 3 universities in Korea). Entrance to these universities is extremely competitive so this reflects on the academic skills of the students.

I undertake 5 subjects here at Korea University, which is one extra subject than you would at UTS. Your timetable here is likely to be filled up with classes and attendance is compulsory and checked at every class. The style of teaching is mainly lecture type unlike UTS, which separates lectures and tutorials. If you’re used to assignment-based subjects, it is likely you may have exams instead. Although I have had exams back at UTS, I have heard from other students who had no exams in their degrees who were surprised to find they had to complete exams here rather than assignments. But don’t let the study pressure deter you! This is one of the best countries in my opinion to study abroad at.

There is a lot to partake in and see in the city of Seoul and Korea and one differing aspect here is namely the nightlife. If you are a night owl you will enjoy studying abroad in Korea as there is still plenty to do when the sun sets down. A popular activity is walking along the Han River where people also gather for late night picnics of Korean fried chicken and socialize together into the late hours. After a day full of classes and study, students like to celebrate by going out to eat food and drinking (especially after the exam period). It’s truly a scene to witness the city still have so many people out and about.

With there being endless possibilities in Korea, the only real problem is finding time. The metro system is advanced and connects you to practically anywhere and you will forget that cars exist as a mode of transport. With beautiful national parks and scenery a few stations away from major towering skyscrapers, you can always find something that suits your mood day or night. If you are here in the cherry blossom season, you will experience the beautiful process of blooming trees in Spring. During the peak cherry blossom season, parks are crowded and full of people wanting to take photos amongst the scenery. The colours of nature are something you never see back at home, and it forms a scenery which is vibrant and vivid.

If you are considering the opportunity to study abroad, I highly recommend taking the initiative and applying. Whether you want to study abroad in Korea University, Korea or another country, the benefits are plentiful, and it is an experience you’ll cherish for life.

화이팅 (Good luck)!

Damian Kryj Bednarski
Bachelor of Science in Information Technology / Bachelor of International Studies
Korea University
South Korea

For more information about the UTS Global Exchange program please visit: www.uts.edu.au/thinkglobal