The ‘GoYeon’ Games in Korea

Although I’m only a couple weeks into my semester, I cannot describe in words how phenomenal my experience at Korea University has been, and just what amazing memories I’ve already made in South Korea. My Global Exchange experience to South Korea has been much more than simply studying – it has been about creating unforgettable memories, meeting awesome new people and immersing myself into the rich Korean culture.

At Korea University, I am currently in the Media and Communication faculty, undertaking restricted elective subjects. Considering I am in a foreign country, knowing very limited Korean, I was extremely nervous about adjusting to classes and to the new workload. But my worries aside, the teaching style has been really similar to UTS! All lectures and tutorials are run in English and are extremely engaging and thought provoking, the professors are aimable, and the workload is evenly spaced throughout the semester (meaning you have the time and liberty to explore other parts of Korea with your friends in your spare time)!

Apart from studying, I have been having a blast exploring other parts of Korea – namely Jeju Island and Nami Island. In fact, I’ve already planned a trip to visit Busan at the end of the year! Through these trips, I have made some unforgettable memories and made amazing new friends – who I would have never met if it weren’t for the Exchange Program. In all honesty, it’s hard not to make friends when you’re constantly surrounded by like-minded people in your tutorials, dormitory and Buddy groups.

I would say, the most interesting part about studying in Korea so far would have to be the crazy sporting culture! There is an ongoing traditional rivalry between two Korea University and Yonsei University called the ‘Goyeon Games’ – where each university compete against each other in various sports, including: baseball, basketball, ice hockey, rugby, soccer and more! There is even a team of professional student-led cheerleading squad, which was next level! You would never be able to experience something of this kind back in Australia, and just being able to fully immerse myself into the unique Korean university campus life has been surreal.

My only hot tip for future students interested in studying at Korea University or Korea in general would be to GET YOURSELF OUT THERE! Plug yourself into the Buddy program, meet up regularly with your fellow UTS exchange students, sign up to live on campus and just have fun!

Hannah Pyun
Bachelor of Communications (Journalism)
Korea University
South Korea

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