If you’re like most college students, you’ve already mulled over the possibility of studying abroad. Dreams of seeing the Eiffel Tower or basking in the Tuscan sun are suddenly real and affordable possibilities when anchored by the parent-friendly promise of expanding your education.
But when it comes to overseas learning, there’s nothing like getting back to your roots. From scenic trips across the countryside to academic courses geared toward a historical and modern understanding of Korea, Korea-based programs offer a little bit of everything. Here’s a mini guide to help you narrow down your options so that the only thing on your mind will be what to pack.
— Chris Paek
Yonsei International School
Quick Facts
- Location: Seoul
- When: June 27-Aug. 7 (summer); Aug. 26-Dec. 20 (fall)
- Type: summer, fall or spring programs
- Tuition/Housing/Student Fees: $4,085
- Courses: Minimum two courses required for summer; Korean language class required for fall and spring semesters; Credits are fully transferable.
- Website: yonsei.ac.kr/eng
Setting:
The campus is situated in the Seoul province of Shinchon, a buzzing epicenter of college students both local and international. Catering to the area’s vibrant student culture, the area is packed withrestaurants, bars and noraebangs.
Check It Out:
Reputed to have a preeminent international program, Yonsei University is fully committed to providing its students with a comprehensive cultural education. Before the summer program begins, students are afforded the opportunity to attend a three-day field trip to Gyeongju as an introduction to the country. “It helped us ease into Korea without just being thrown in there,” says senior Danielle Beckman, who attended the program in the summer of her junior year. “That was really helpful for me because I got to learn a little bit about Korean history and culture.” While the summer session is more focused on outside learning and tends to attract the soju-obsessed, the fall and spring semesters are known for bringing droves of energetic Korean Americans out to greet the motherland while stacking up on a full — albeit easy — course load.
Muddy Good Times
Make sure to take advantage of the annual field trip to the Boryeong Mud Festival. Participants get dirty from head to toe, but they don’t mind in the least; the mud is rich in minerals and good for your skin.
Apply
Application Due: Feb. 11-May 16
Requirements: $100 application fee, a completed application, an original college transcript and proof of health/medical insurance
