Life in Daejeon, South Korea

The biggest lesson I learned was to always remember why we do what we do. I learned that we do not send a hundred emails or struggle with contracts simply because it's work. We have a responsibility and the work we do actually affects peoples' lives. I came to realize this as everyone in the office was incredibly professional yet also encouraging and intentional with each other. Ultimately, working for Hyundai Corporation was a precious opportunity to speak Korean and understand a different approach to academics, career, and life.

As a civil and environmental engineering major interested in natural landscapes, I enjoyed the discussions in my environmental planning class as well as visits to national parks such as Bukhan Mountain. There is so much to see in Seoul. The subway system is easy to use to get around. I love Korean food. Study abroad is definitely something undergraduates should experience, and both Yonsei and the city of Seoul have a lot to offer.

I had a wonderful time at Dreamfora as a software engineer intern. My role was to oversee the backend infrastructure and set up the testing module for our development team. I learned a lot about industry standards and tools that help run present-day applications. Much of this experience can't be gained in a classroom and it was extremely beneficial for me. Having the chance to intern in a Korean startup was also culturally enriching and I would highly recommend it.

I always heard people say study abroad changed their lives, but I didn't truly understand until I did it. There were moments I was confused, uncomfortable, and even frustrated and those didn't come close to the feelings of fulfillment, excitement, and pure happiness I felt throughout my time abroad!

I firmly believe "what's for you won't pass you, and this too shall pass," and my study abroad experience affirmed that. Though I was initially bummed about not being able to study abroad in Australia, my South Korean experience offered me more than I could even imagine. This included academic courses, culture, self-growth, and even a weekend trip to Vietnam to see my Grandma. My advice to those looking into study abroad is: "full send it!"

As an Asian-looking person who's not Korean, the most interesting experience has been people asking me for directions. When they realize I don't speak Korean well, they are bewildered. Even more so when I explain my parents aren't Korean either.

My internship showed me that I am capable of learning challenging tools and technologies on my own. While I struggled at times, it gave me the opportunity to learn about a technology I had been afraid to learn alone.

This internship was excellent exposure to the Korean healthcare system and has positively impacted my journey to pursue a career in medicine.

My internship experience at Ethiopian Airlines not only provided insight into the intricacies of the airline and marketing industries but also served as a transformative journey that expanded my perspectives on diversity, equity, and inclusion. Embracing differences and fostering a spirit of collaboration at both personal and business levels emerged as essential elements in creating strong connections between diverse entities.

Study abroad can be lonely and scary. This trip will test you in ways you never asked for; and in return, the rewards are indescribable.