Sohee Kim
Major: Nursing
Year: Second year
Study abroad country: South Korea
Study abroad program: Yonsei University
1. Why did you decide to study abroad?
As a Korean American, I was very familiar—but inexperienced—with an independent Korean way of living. I hoped that through studying abroad, I would be able to learn about the personalities and ways of living in Korea.
2. Do you expect your study abroad experience to augment your class work?
I plan to work with immigrants in the future through nursing, so gaining more knowledge of Korean culture in an independent way opened me up to new ideas and imaginations. Through studying in Korea, I realized that understanding one’s personality and way of thinking are both essential, especially within medical care.
3. When and why did you take the photo you shared?
The photo portrayed is at Gyeongbokgung Palace. Here, I rented a hanbok (a piece of traditional Korean clothing) to take pictures in. This place is significant because it was a large palace built during the Joseon Dynasty. It is a famous place for tourists to experience traditional Korean culture.
4. What do you like about the photo?
I like how the main part of the palace is shown, and I really liked my hanbok too. Also, it was very special to take a picture in which I immersed myself in the culture and traditions of Korea. It reminded me of when I lived in Korea around 10 years ago before moving to the U.S. The hanbok itself will always represent the memories and the culture I was raised in.
5. Anything else you’d like to share about your study abroad experience?
Aside from studying in South Korea, studying abroad is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and I would highly recommend it to anyone who is willing to live and learn from a global standpoint. This study abroad was very valuable; it’s critical for students to experience independence in a different country.
This profile was originally featured in an article from The Daily.