This past year as an exchange student in Korea has been incredibly significant to me. It has been a period of profound self-reflection and a valuable lesson in gratitude.
Through interactions with others, I discovered that people found my eyes beautiful and exotic and that my Korean, though fluent, carried a faint English accent I neither recognized nor acknowledged. These insights, while minor, prompted deeper reflections on identity and self-perception.
The challenges I encountered revealed more about my nature than I had anticipated. I realized I am more introverted and less fond of the spotlight than I had previously thought. I also found that I possess not only the structured traits of a Judger but also the flexible characteristics of a Perceiver. Additionally, I learned that, contrary to my belief, I am not immune to sweating profusely in Korea's sweltering and humid weather.
Furthermore, my ability to maintain regular contact with family and friends was not as strong as I had assumed, often causing my parents to worry and feel a sense of longing due to my infrequent communication–sorry mom and dad!
Each moment in Korea was a lesson in gratitude. Public transportation was a daily necessity, averaging 2-3 hours of my day. The experience of being packed with hundreds of people in the oppressive heat and humidity, worrying about missing my stop, made me appreciate the comfort and convenience of driving my own car back in the U.S.
Meals consisted mostly of frozen food and restaurant dishes, which made me deeply grateful for the delicious and healthy home-cooked meals my mother used to prepare. Observing my Korean friends complain about the hassle of reorganizing their wardrobes for each season made me appreciate living in California, where the weather remains mild throughout the year.
Above all, this unique experience made me appreciate the circumstances I had been given. Living in Korea for the first time and navigating a different culture in a foreign land was undeniably challenging. Despite these difficulties, I found joy in simple pleasures. Sharing a cold drink and ice cream with a friend from a convenience store made the hot weather bearable.
Riding the bus with music playing in my earphones, I enjoyed watching the bustling urban scenery and the hurried lives of people, often finding myself wishing the journey would last longer. Having lived abroad all my life, I had few opportunities to see my family in Korea; hence, connecting with them during this time was particularly meaningful. Exploring charming cafes and restaurants, trying new foods, relaxing by the Han River, enjoying the night view, and sharing laughs and meals with friends were all delightful experiences that will be cherished for a lifetime.
Living in a multicultural society in the U.S. is fulfilling, yet this year made me appreciate the sense of belonging that comes with living in a more homogeneous society like Korea. Before this exchange, Korea was merely my parents' homeland and a place of fleeting childhood memories from short vacation visits. However, one day as I gazed out the window of the bus en route to my next destination, I felt a warm familiarity with the streets, signaling a deeper connection to Korea. It no longer felt so foreign, and I felt a budding sense of belonging.
Reflecting on this past year, I am immensely grateful for the numerous insights and experiences I have gained. Initially, I applied for the exchange program with the expectation of broadening my academic horizons. While my academic growth was significant, experiencing Korean culture firsthand allowed me to view the world from a broader perspective.
As I conclude this reflection, I would like to offer some advice to students contemplating an exchange program: set aside your worries and fully embrace the opportunity. The experiences and insights you will gain will far exceed any expectations you may have. Immersing yourself in a different culture, navigating new challenges, and expanding your academic and personal horizons will prove invaluable.
I extend my deepest gratitude to the Chris Borton Memorial Scholarship Committee and its generous donors for making this transformative experience possible. Your support has not only enriched my academic journey but has also provided me with profound personal growth and a broader perspective on the world. Without your contribution, these exceptional experiences and the lifelong memories created during this year would not have been possible. Thank you.